Start your day the Italian way with this delicious and effortless Breakfast Strata! Inspired by the beloved Food Wishes recipe, this strata is a delightful blend of creamy eggs, savory cheeses, and perfectly seasoned Italian sausage, all baked to golden perfection in a single pan. It's the perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, or a comforting weekend treat. Forget soggy cereal; this strata offers a hearty and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling energized and ready to tackle the day. The rich flavors of Italy meet the convenience of a casserole, creating a breakfast experience you won't soon forget.
This recipe simplifies the classic strata, making it accessible to even novice bakers. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe is designed for ease and deliciousness. Ready to experience the magic of this Italian Breakfast Strata? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Baking dish
- Knife
- Pan
- Ladle
- Scissors (optional)
- Strainer
Ingredients
- French or Italian bread: 1 1/2 loaves
- Sausage: 1 pound
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic: optional
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Cayenne pepper
- Dried Italian herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)
- Baby spinach: 1 pound
- Large eggs: 12
- Milk
- Fontina cheese (or Monterey Jack/cheddar)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread in a single layer and let sit overnight to slightly stale.
- Cook sausage in a pan with olive oil until browned. Crumble as you cook.
- Add diced onion (and garlic, if desired) to the sausage. Season with salt, pepper, cayenne, and Italian herbs. Cook until onions soften.
- Transfer the sausage mixture to a bowl. Add a tablespoon of sausage fat back to the pan, and wilt the spinach over medium-high heat.
- Drain the spinach, squeeze out excess water, and chop or snip it.
- Whisk eggs with salt. Add milk (carefully, to prevent splattering).
Step 2. Assemble the Strata
- Grease a casserole dish. Layer bread cubes, then 60% of the sausage mixture, then 60% of the spinach, and half of the cheese.
- bread cubes, remaining sausage, remaining spinach, and remaining cheese. Pour egg mixture over the top.
Step 3. Chill and Bake
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until lightly browned and an internal temperature of 150°F (65°C) is reached.
Step 4. Serve
- Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Read more: Grilled Stuffed Squid with Venere Black Rice & Buttered Vegetables
Tips
- Using slightly stale bread is key for a good texture.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when wilting spinach; it will collapse.
- Using scissors to chop the spinach is faster than a knife.
- Add milk to the eggs gradually to avoid splattering.
- The overnight refrigeration is crucial for the strata to meld together.
- Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-800
- Fat: 40-55g
- Carbs: 30-45g
- Protein: 45-60g
FAQs
1. Can I make this strata ahead of time?
Absolutely! This strata is even better the next day. Assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning, or bake it completely ahead and reheat gently before serving.
2. What kind of sausage can I use?
Mild Italian sausage is traditional, but you can experiment! Spicy Italian, sweet Italian, or even breakfast sausage would work well. Just be sure to remove the casings.
This Italian Breakfast Strata is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from a quiet weekend breakfast to a lively brunch gathering. Its rich flavors and simple preparation make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. So grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious and satisfying start to your day!