This Mushroom Sausage Strata is a comforting, make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Layers of savory sausage, earthy mushrooms, and hearty bread are soaked in a flavorful custard mixture, then topped with gooey melted cheese. After an overnight rest, the strata is baked until golden and puffed, with the bread soaking up all the rich flavors. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a satisfying and delicious meal that can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Perfect for a holiday morning or a weekend family gathering, this strata will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 cups cubed day-old bread (French or Italian bread works well)
- 1½ cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbled. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the olive oil. Sauté the onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Strata: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, cooked sausage, and sautéed mushroom mixture. Toss together until well mixed. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread half of the bread mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the bread mixture. Add the remaining bread mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
- Prepare the Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and sausage mixture in the baking dish.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the strata from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the strata is puffed, golden brown, and set in the middle.
- Serve: Let the strata cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Enjoy this Mushroom Sausage Strata with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete and satisfying meal!
