This article introduces a delicious recipe for Veggie Sausage Strata. The author, a retired home economics teacher, shares her family’s favorite casserole dish. Made with Italian sausage, green peppers, onions, eggs, milk, and a variety of cheeses, this hearty dish is perfect for a brunch or a comforting dinner. The recipe requires overnight refrigeration, allowing the flavors to meld together, and then it is baked to perfection. With its combination of savory ingredients and satisfying textures, this Veggie Sausage Strata is sure to become a new favorite in any household.

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Veggie Sausage Strata: A Hearty and Delicious Breakfast Casserole

When it comes to breakfast or brunch, finding a dish that is both satisfying and packed with flavor can be a challenge. However, the veggie sausage strata is a versatile and delicious option that will please even the pickiest eaters. Made with a combination of bulk Italian sausage, green peppers, onion, bread, spinach, and two types of cheese, this breakfast casserole is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Ingredients

To make the veggie sausage strata, you will need the following ingredients:

2 pounds bulk Italian sausage
2 medium green peppers, coarsely chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
8 large eggs
2 cups 2% milk
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons white pepper
2 teaspoons ground mustard
12 slices bread, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 medium zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices

These ingredients can be easily found in most grocery stores and are commonly used in breakfast or brunch recipes.

Directions

To prepare the veggie sausage strata, follow these simple steps:

In a large skillet, cook the sausage, green peppers, and onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Be sure to drain any excess grease.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, white pepper, and ground mustard.
Add the cooked sausage mixture, bread, spinach, cheeses, and zucchini to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 13×9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Cover the dish and refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
Remove the dish from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 40-45 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the strata to cool slightly before serving. Cut into individual pieces and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

A serving of the veggie sausage strata, which is approximately one piece, contains the following nutritional information:

Calories: 501
Fat: 34g (14g saturated fat)
Cholesterol: 204mg
Sodium: 1236mg
Carbohydrate: 22g (5g sugars, 2g fiber)
Protein: 27g

These values are approximate and may vary based on the specific brands and ingredients used in the recipe.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results with your veggie sausage strata, consider the following tips:

Use bulk Italian sausage for the best flavor. This type of sausage is typically available at the meat counter or in the sausage section of your grocery store.
Experiment with different types of cheese to add variety to your strata. Mozzarella or pepper jack can be great alternatives to Swiss and cheddar.
Customize your strata by adding other vegetables such as mushrooms or tomatoes. This can enhance the flavor and add extra nutrients to the dish.
It’s important to squeeze out all the excess moisture from the thawed spinach to prevent the strata from becoming watery.
Allowing the strata to refrigerate overnight not only allows the flavors to meld together but also makes for easier preparation the next day.

Variations

If you’re looking to change up the flavors of your strata, consider these variations:

Meat Lover’s Strata: Replace the veggie sausage with cooked bacon, ham, or breakfast sausage for a meatier version of the strata.
Vegetarian Strata: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Gluten-Free Strata: Use gluten-free bread in place of regular bread to make the strata gluten-free.
Vegan Strata: Replace the eggs and dairy milk with a vegan egg substitute, such as tofu or flaxseed, and a non-dairy milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a vegan-friendly version of the recipe.

These variations allow for dietary restrictions or personal preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delicious breakfast casserole.

Serving Suggestions

The veggie sausage strata can be served for breakfast or brunch alongside fresh fruit or a side salad. The combination of flavors and textures pairs well with a cup of hot coffee or tea, providing a complete and satisfying meal.

Leftovers can be easily reheated in the microwave or oven, making it a convenient and quick breakfast option throughout the week.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions

One of the great advantages of the veggie sausage strata is that it can be prepared ahead of time and even frozen for later use. Follow these instructions to make the most of your make-ahead and freezing options:

The strata can be assembled the night before and refrigerated overnight. This allows the flavors to develop and makes for easier preparation the next day.
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent any air from getting in and affecting the texture and taste.
When you’re ready to bake, remove the strata from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to come to temperature.
Leftover strata can be frozen in individual portions for up to 3 months. This is great for meal planning or for quick and convenient breakfasts on busy mornings.
To reheat the frozen strata, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.

With these make-ahead and freezing instructions, you can enjoy the veggie sausage strata whenever you please, whether it’s for a special occasion or a weekday breakfast on the go.

About The Author

The veggie sausage strata recipe was created by Dorothy Erickson, a retired home economics teacher with a passion for cooking. Dorothy has been sharing her recipes and culinary expertise for many years, delighting her family and friends with her delicious creations. The veggie sausage strata has become a favorite among them, showcasing Dorothy’s knack for creating flavorful and nutritious meals. She continues to experiment with different ingredients and flavors, always striving to create dishes that are both delicious and satisfying.

Conclusion

The veggie sausage strata is a versatile and delicious breakfast casserole that is perfect for any occasion, from lazy weekend brunches to quick weekday breakfasts. With its combination of hearty sausage, vegetables, and melted cheese, it is sure to please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. The make-ahead and freezing options make it a convenient choice for busy mornings or for when you have guests staying over. Try this recipe and discover a new favorite breakfast casserole that will become a staple in your meal rotation.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed the veggie sausage strata, be sure to check out these related recipes for more delicious breakfast casserole ideas:

Ham ‘n’ Cheese Strata
Mushroom Sausage Strata
Chicken Cheese Strata
Vegetable Strata
Mexican Sausage & Cornbread Strata
Fiesta Cornbread & Sausage Strata
Ham & Brie Strata
Egg and Sausage Strata
Broccoli & Chicken Cheese Strata
Cheese Sausage Strata

These recipes offer a variety of flavors and ingredients, allowing you to explore different options and find the perfect breakfast casserole for your taste preferences.

Veggie Sausage Strata Recipe