## Sausage and Herb Breakfast Strata: A Hearty Start To Your Day
### Introduction
Does your breakfast routine need a shakeup? Why settle for the same old dishes day in and day out when you can make something special, like our Sausage and Herb Breakfast Strata, right in your own kitchen? Bursting with flavor and simple enough to whip up, this strata is the perfect way to start or end your day.
### Why Make This Recipe
**Wholesome and Complete Meal**: This Sausage and Herb Breakfast Strata packs in protein, carbs, and veggies all in one dish, making sure you start your day on a nutritious note.
**Perfect For Hosting**: Whether it’s a brunch party or a family gathering, this breakfast strata is sure to impress. It feeds a crowd and easily doubles or halves.
**Easily Customizable**: Not a fan of sausage? Substitute it with bacon or mushrooms. Want to go cheesy? Add on extra different varieties.
### How to Make Sausage and Herb Breakfast Strata
#### Ingredients
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (red or green)
– 3 cups day-old bread, cubed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 8 large eggs
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
#### Directions
1. Start by setting your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the sausage until browned in a skillet over medium heat. Set aside once done.
3. Use the same skillet to sauté onions and bell peppers with olive oil, for about 5 minutes until softened.
4. Take a large mixing bowl and combine the sausage, sautéed veggies, bread cubes, cheese, parsley, and thyme together.
5. Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
6. Pour your egg mixture over the mixture of bread and gently toss. Make sure the bread absorbs the egg mixture nicely.
7. Transfer this mixture into your greased baking dish and spread evenly.
8. Bake for about 50-55 mins. The top should turn golden and the center, set.
9. Allow it to cool before serving.
### How to Serve Sausage and Herb Breakfast Strata
Serve this delicious Sausage and Herb Breakfast Strata warm, with fresh fruit salad on the side or hot coffee for a comforting breakfast. You could even serve this as a brunch or dinner entree with a side salad.
### How to Store Sausage and Herb Breakfast Strata
If you have leftovers, let the strata cool down before placing it in an airtight container. It’s refrigerator-friendly for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
### Tips to Make Sausage and Herb Breakfast Strata
– Use day-old bread. Fresh bread might make your strata soggy.
– Feel free to experiment with the kinds of cheese. Try a mix of cheddar, mozzarella or even swiss.
– Allow your strata to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking; this makes it easier to cut and ensures it holds its shape when serving.
### Variations
Make it vegetarian: If you’re not a meat eater, you can substitute sausage with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
### FAQs
1. **Can I make it ahead of time?**
Absolutely! Prepare the strata the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. The next morning, all you have to do is bake it.
2. **Can I freeze the strata?**
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If you choose to freeze it before baking, allow it to thaw completely in your refrigerator before it goes into your oven.
3. **Can I use any kind of bread?**
While you can use any bread, thick-crust bread, ciabatta or Italian bread gives the best results.
Breakfast doesn’t have to be boring. Give this Sausage and Herb Breakfast Strata a go and change the way you look at your morning meal!