Start your day right with my Savory Sausage and Spinach Breakfast Strata Delight! This hearty dish combines savory sausage, fresh spinach, and eggs in a warm, baked filling. It’s perfect for brunch or a family breakfast. I’ll guide you step-by-step, from choosing the right ingredients to baking techniques. With tips for variations and storage, this breakfast strata will be a hit in your home. Let’s dive in and make your mornings tasty!
Ingredients
Main ingredients for Savory Sausage and Spinach Breakfast Strata
– 1 pound breakfast sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 6 large eggs
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 8 slices whole grain bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
The main ingredients bring flavor and texture. The sausage adds richness, while spinach gives freshness. Eggs and milk create a creamy base. Whole grain bread absorbs all the flavors and holds it together. Cheese adds a savory, golden crust.
Optional herbs and spices to enhance flavor
You can add more depth with herbs and spices. Consider these options:
– Fresh parsley or chives for a bright kick
– Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
– Italian seasoning for an herby twist
These extra touches can elevate your strata. They add layers of flavor that make each bite exciting.
Suggestions for cheese substitutions
If you want to switch up the cheese, try these:
– Monterey Jack for a milder taste
– Feta cheese for a tangy flavor
– Gruyère cheese for a nutty touch
Each cheese brings its own character. Feel free to mix and match to create your perfect dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the baking dish and preheating the oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the strata bake evenly. Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. Generously grease it with cooking spray or softened butter. This step is key to avoid sticking later.
Cooking the sausage and spinach mixture
In a large skillet, add 1 pound of breakfast sausage. Set the heat to medium. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage up. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s brown and cooked through. Then, stir in 1 cup of chopped spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt nicely. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool a bit.
Mixing the egg and bread mixture
In a large bowl, crack 6 large eggs. Whisk them with 2 cups of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Add a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and frothy. Now, add the cubed bread. Use 8 slices of whole grain bread cut into 1-inch cubes. Then, fold in the cooled sausage and spinach mixture. Make sure all the bread is coated well.
Assembling the strata and baking time
Transfer this mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top. This creates a delicious cheesy crust. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, not too tight, and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes. The top should be golden brown and the center firm. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Tips & Tricks
Best practices for preventing a soggy strata
To keep your strata from getting soggy, start with stale bread. Stale bread soaks up the egg mix without turning mushy. Cut your bread into cubes, and let it sit out for a few hours or overnight. This helps it dry out. When you mix the bread with the egg, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This gives the bread time to absorb the egg mix fully. Avoid overloading with milk; stick to the recipe’s amount.
Recommended serving ideas and garnishes
I love serving this strata warm with fresh herbs on top. Chopped parsley or chives add color and flavor. You can also add a side of fresh fruit for a sweet touch. A dollop of light yogurt brings creaminess and balance. For those who love a kick, serve with hot sauce on the side. This dish shines with simple, fresh flavors that make breakfast special.
How to ensure even cooking and perfect texture
To cook your strata evenly, spread the mixture out well in the dish. Use a spatula to flatten it. Covering it with foil for the first half of baking keeps it moist. Remove the foil later to let the top brown. Bake until the center is firm, not jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. This ensures a fluffy, well-cooked strata every time.
Variations
Vegetarian-friendly modifications
To make this breakfast strata vegetarian, swap the sausage for plant-based options. Use mushrooms, beans, or lentils for protein. Adding roasted peppers or zucchini boosts flavor and texture. Spinach is great, but feel free to add kale or Swiss chard for variety. This keeps the dish hearty while keeping it meat-free.
Ingredient swaps for different dietary needs
If you’re gluten-free, choose gluten-free bread. This will let everyone enjoy the strata. For those with dairy issues, use almond milk and dairy-free cheese. You can also try using eggs from a plant-based source, like flax eggs. These swaps help you cater to many dietary needs without losing taste.
Flavor variations with alternative meats or vegetables
You can switch up the meat for turkey sausage or chicken. Each adds a different spin. If you like spice, chorizo or spicy sausage works well. For veggies, mix in artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes. These changes create a unique flavor each time you make it. The possibilities are endless!
Storage Info
How to properly store leftovers
To store leftovers, allow the strata to cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating instructions for optimal flavor
For the best flavor, reheat the strata in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the strata in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. You can also use a microwave. Just heat it in 30-second intervals until warm.
Freezing tips for long-term storage
To freeze, cut the strata into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy it later! It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make Savory Sausage and Spinach Breakfast Strata ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this strata the night before. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step. After mixing the ingredients, cover the dish with foil and put it in the fridge. In the morning, take it out and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then, bake it as directed. This method lets the flavors meld together, making it even tastier.
What are the best side dishes to serve with this strata?
This strata pairs well with many sides. Here are some of my favorites:
– Fresh seasonal fruit
– Light yogurt with honey
– A simple green salad
– Crispy bacon or turkey sausage
These sides add freshness and contrast to the rich strata.
How can I customize this recipe based on my dietary restrictions?
You can easily adjust this recipe to fit dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
– Use turkey or chicken sausage for less fat.
– Swap whole grain bread for gluten-free bread.
– Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk.
– Add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
These changes keep the dish delicious and satisfying.
Is it possible to use stale bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Stale bread works great in this dish. It soaks up the egg mixture well. Just make sure to cut it into cubes. If your bread is too hard, leave it out for a few minutes to soften slightly. This way, you reduce waste and still enjoy a tasty breakfast.
In this post, I shared how to make a tasty Savory Sausage and Spinach Breakfast Strata. We discussed the key ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. I also covered fun variations and storage advice.
By following these steps, you can create a dish your family will love. Don’t hesitate to customize it to fit your taste. Enjoy experimenting and eating this delicious breakfast option!
