Smoked Sausage Strata

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This smoked sausage strata is a complete meal in one pan — hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The smoky sausage infuses the dish with bold flavor, while the eggs and cheese create a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. You can assemble it the night before and just bake it in the morning, making it ideal for stress-free hosting or family breakfasts. Plus, it’s super flexible with endless add-in possibilities.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

smoked sausage (sliced or diced)
crusty bread (like French or sourdough), cut into cubes
eggs
milk (or half-and-half for a richer texture)
shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
onion (optional)
salt
pepper
garlic powder
optional add-ins: spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes, herbs

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked sausage until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. If using onions or other veggies, sauté them in the same skillet until tender.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Add the bread cubes to the greased dish, followed by the cooked sausage and vegetables.
6. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, pressing down slightly to help the bread soak it up.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the entire dish.
8. Let the strata sit for 10-15 minutes (or overnight in the fridge) to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture.
9. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
10. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Cheese options: Swap in Swiss, gouda, pepper jack, or feta for different flavors.
• Make it spicy: Use spicy smoked sausage or add diced jalapeños.
• Vegetarian version: Omit sausage and use sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
• Add greens: Stir in spinach or kale for added nutrition.
• Mini stratas: Bake in ramekins or muffin tins for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
This dish also freezes well. Let cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What is a strata?

A strata is a layered breakfast casserole typically made with bread, eggs, cheese, and various fillings like sausage or vegetables.

Can I make smoked sausage strata ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for overnight prep. Assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.

What kind of bread works best?

Use sturdy, crusty bread like French bread, sourdough, or a rustic loaf. Day-old bread works especially well.

Can I use a different kind of sausage?

Absolutely. Try turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or spicy andouille for a different flavor.

Do I have to cook the sausage first?

Yes, cooking the sausage before adding it ensures it’s fully cooked and brings out its flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes are great additions.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free milk and cheese alternative, or omit the cheese altogether.

How do I know when the strata is done?

The top should be golden, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean with no runny egg.

Can I freeze smoked sausage strata?

Yes, freeze baked and cooled strata in individual portions or as a whole. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Use crusty, dry bread and let the strata sit for a bit before baking so the eggs are fully absorbed.

Conclusion

Smoked Sausage Strata is a comforting, flavor-packed breakfast casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. With its smoky sausage, rich egg base, and cheesy top, it’s a dish everyone will love. Easy to prep ahead and endlessly adaptable, this strata makes mornings delicious and stress-free.

Smoked Sausage Strata

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Smoked Sausage Strata is a hearty breakfast casserole made with layers of crusty bread, smoky sausage, eggs, and cheese. Baked to golden perfection, it’s perfect for brunch, holidays, or make-ahead mornings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings
• Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced or diced
• 6 cups crusty bread cubes (French or sourdough, day-old preferred)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk or half-and-half
• 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
• 1 small onion, diced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
• Optional: 1 cup spinach, mushrooms, or chopped tomatoes
• Optional: Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or chives)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked sausage until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. If using onions or other vegetables, sauté them in the same skillet until tender.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Add the bread cubes to the prepared baking dish.
6. Top with cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables if using.
7. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down lightly so it absorbs the liquid.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
9. Let sit for 10-15 minutes or refrigerate overnight for best texture.
10. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until golden on top and center is set.
11. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Use day-old or crusty bread to avoid sogginess.
• Customize with your favorite veggies, herbs, or cheese blends.
• Assemble the night before and bake in the morning for easy prep.
• Great for freezing—cool completely before wrapping and freezing.
• Bake in individual ramekins or muffin tins for single servings.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 17g
• Cholesterol: 215mg