Imagine waking up to a mouthwatering breakfast that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Our Easy Weekend Breakfast Strata is the ultimate morning game-changer that transforms ordinary ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Perfect for lazy weekend mornings, family gatherings, or when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this strata is about to become your new breakfast obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bread
- 1 cup cooked sausage
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cut the bread slices into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, let the cubes sit out for 10-15 minutes to slightly dry out, which helps them absorb the egg mixture better.
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease on paper towels.
- Layer the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Distribute the cooked sausage crumbles over the bread.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the bread and sausage layer.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese, ensuring it covers the entire dish and seeps between the bread cubes.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture.
- Bake covered for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let the strata rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes cutting easier.
- Slice into squares and serve warm. Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best texture. The slightly dry bread absorbs the egg mixture more effectively, creating a more cohesive dish.
- Customize Your Protein: While this recipe uses sausage, feel free to swap with bacon, ham, or even vegetarian alternatives like mushrooms or spinach.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese types like sharp cheddar, gruyère, or a Mexican blend to keep things interesting.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the strata the night before and refrigerate. This allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture, intensifying the flavors.
- Even Distribution is Key: When pouring the egg mixture, ensure it's evenly spread and seeps between all bread cubes for consistent texture.
- Don't Rush the Resting: Letting the strata rest after baking helps it set and makes cutting and serving much easier.
- Temperature Control: Cover with foil initially to prevent over-browning, then uncover to achieve that perfect golden-brown top.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 317kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 215mg
