If you’re craving a breakfast that’s both hearty and full of vibrant flavors, look no further than the Classic Sausage & Egg Breakfast Strata Casserole Recipe. This dish is a comforting layering of perfectly browned sausage, fresh spinach, velvety eggs, and melty cheddar cheese, all baked into a golden, savory casserole that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a sleepy weekend brunch crowd or prepping ahead for busy mornings, this casserole delivers effortless deliciousness and keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this breakfast casserole is delightfully straightforward. Each ingredient is simple yet plays an essential role in bringing balance to your strata’s taste, texture, and color.
- 1 Cup fresh chopped spinach: Adds a bright pop of color and a gentle fresh bite that lightens the dish.
- 1 Pound sausage: Brings rich, savory flavor and satisfying heartiness to every mouthful.
- 1½ Cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy goodness that ties all the layers together.
- 8 large eggs: The backbone of the strata, creating that soft, custard-like texture we all crave.
- ½ Cup heavy cream: Makes the egg mixture luxuriously smooth and rich without weighing it down.
- Salt: Enhances and balances all the natural flavors.
- Pepper: Adds a subtle kick of warmth and depth to the eggs.
- Oil or butter for greasing: Ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and browns beautifully.
How to Make Classic Sausage & Egg Breakfast Strata Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Ingredients
Kick things off by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This sets the perfect environment for baking your strata evenly with a golden finish. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish generously with oil or butter to make sure your casserole slides right out once cooked. While the oven warms, gather your fresh spinach, sausage, shredded cheddar, eggs, cream, salt, pepper, and your greasing fat. Having everything ready makes the assembly smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until it’s evenly browned and crumbly. This step is crucial because well-browned sausage packs full flavor and keeps any excess grease at bay, ensuring your strata isn’t soggy but rich and savory. Once cooked, drain any leftover grease to maintain the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Step 3: Layer the Base
Spread the beautifully browned sausage evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Next, sprinkle the chopped spinach on top of the sausage, creating an appealing, nutrient-packed layer. This layering helps each slice of your casserole have a balanced distribution of meat and greens, making each bite satisfying and fresh.
Step 4: Whisk and Combine the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together your eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. This step brings air into the eggs, leading to a light, fluffy texture once baked. Pour this creamy egg mixture evenly over the sausage and spinach layers, ensuring every corner is covered.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top to create a bubbly, golden crust. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it and look for a firm, set center and beautifully browned, cheesy edges. Once done, your Classic Sausage & Egg Breakfast Strata Casserole Recipe is ready to be enjoyed piping hot.
How to Serve Classic Sausage & Egg Breakfast Strata Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your strata, fresh garnishes work wonders. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a lovely herbal brightness and a splash of color that contrasts the cheese’s golden hue beautifully. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can add creaminess or heat for those who enjoy a bit more bite with their breakfast.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a centerpiece but pairs exceptionally well with light, fresh side dishes. Think crispy roasted potatoes, a bright fruit salad, or even a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. These sides keep the meal balanced and complement the richness of the strata without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your brunch guests, serve your strata straight from the baking dish or cut it into neat squares and plate each piece with a drizzle of spicy maple syrup or a scattering of toasted nuts for crunch. Another fun option is to layer the strata in mini ramekins for individual servings that feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover strata keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers equally delightful. Simply cover tightly to prevent drying out and enjoy your next day breakfast (or any meal) with minimal effort.
Freezing
You can freeze your Classic Sausage & Egg Breakfast Strata Casserole Recipe either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to one month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. For cooked leftovers, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your strata in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through. This gentle reheating restores the casserole’s crisp edges and fluffy center much better than microwaving, which can sometimes turn it rubbery.
FAQs
Can I substitute turkey sausage for pork sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative and works beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure to brown it well to develop that rich, savory flavor that’s key to the strata.
Is there a gluten-free version of the Classic Sausage & Egg Breakfast Strata Casserole Recipe?
Since this particular recipe does not include bread traditionally used in strata, it’s naturally gluten-free. If you want to add bread for extra texture, simply use certified gluten-free bread to keep it safe.
Can I add other vegetables besides spinach?
Yes! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini can add great flavor, color, and nutrition. Just sauté harder vegetables first to remove excess moisture and soften them before layering.
How far ahead can I prepare the strata before baking?
This casserole is perfect for prepping the night before. Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for an effortless and delicious start to your day.
What cheese works best in this strata if I don’t have cheddar?
Cheddar is classic for a reason, but feel free to get creative with mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyere. These melt beautifully and add different layers of flavor without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
The Classic Sausage & Egg Breakfast Strata Casserole Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to comfort breakfasts for good reason. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, packed with flavors everyone loves, and versatile enough to suit your favorite additions. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, or simply treating yourself to a cozy morning meal, this casserole is here to brighten your table and start your day just right. Give it a try and watch it become a breakfast classic in your own home!
Print
Classic Sausage & Egg Breakfast Strata Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, International
Description
Classic Sausage & Egg Breakfast Strata Casserole is a hearty and comforting breakfast dish featuring layers of browned sausage, fresh spinach, creamy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese. This savory casserole is easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings. The combination of rich sausage and creamy eggs with the freshness of spinach results in a satisfying meal that will please the whole family.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 Cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 Pound sausage
- 1½ Cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 large eggs
- ½ Cup heavy cream
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Oil or butter, for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook the sausage. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it becomes crumbly and is fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Layer the casserole. Spread the cooked sausage evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top the sausage with the chopped fresh spinach to create a flavorful layered base.
- Mix eggs and cream. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble and bake. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and spinach layers. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the strata is golden brown on top and set in the middle.
Notes
- Prepare the strata the night before for an easy breakfast—assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, refrigerate, and simply bake in the morning.
- Make sure to cook the sausage thoroughly and drain the grease well for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added color, flavor, and nutrition.
- Try mixing different cheeses such as mozzarella or Swiss with cheddar for a creamier, more complex flavor.
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