Looking for the perfect dish to impress your brunch guests? Look no further than our mouthwatering Brunch Casserole Egg Strata! This delightful American classic combines fluffy eggs, savory sausage or ham, and gooey melted cheese, all layered over cubed bread for a hearty meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With just a little prep time and a quick bake, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece for your brunch table that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Get ready to elevate your brunch game with this recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bread, cubed
- 8 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup cooked sausage or ham, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to reach the right temperature while you prepare the casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 eggs and whisk them together until well combined. Make sure the yolks and whites are fully blended.
- Add the 2 cups of milk to the egg mixture. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Season the egg and milk mixture with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer the 6 slices of cubed bread evenly across the bottom. This will form the base of your strata.
- Sprinkle the 1 cup of diced cooked sausage or ham over the cubed bread. Ensure it's spread out evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Next, add the 1/2 cup of diced onion on top of the meat. The onions will add flavor and moisture to the casserole.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the layered bread, meat, and onions. Use a spatula to gently press down the bread cubes, ensuring they soak up the egg mixture.
- Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese. This will prevent the cheese from sticking while it bakes.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This will allow the casserole to set and cook through.
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is firm in the center.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help it set further and make it easier to cut.
- Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Brunch Casserole Egg Strata with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad!
Tips
- Use Day-Old Bread: For the best texture, use day-old bread as it absorbs the egg mixture better and holds its shape during baking. If you don’t have day-old bread, you can toast fresh bread cubes lightly before using.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Swap the sausage or ham for cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a blend of different cheeses to suit your taste.
- Let It Sit: For even better flavor, let the assembled casserole sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before baking. This allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture thoroughly.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. It’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is firm. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Serve with Fresh Sides: Pair your casserole with fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. A drizzle of hollandaise sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can also add a gourmet touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 343kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 514mg
