Breakfast Strata with Chicken Sausage and Mushrooms

This hearty breakfast strata is the perfect make-ahead dish for busy mornings, relaxed weekend brunches, or special family gatherings. Made with toasted day-old bread, fluffy eggs, lean chicken or turkey sausage, mushrooms, and just the right amount of cheese, this savory casserole is filling without feeling heavy.

What makes a breakfast strata truly special is the overnight rest. Allowing the bread to soak in the egg mixture creates a soft, custard-like texture inside, while the top bakes up golden and lightly crisp. It’s comforting, protein-rich, and incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time.

Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Breakfast Strata

This recipe is high in protein, making it a great option to start your day feeling full and energized. It’s ideal for meal prep since everything can be assembled the night before. The ingredients are flexible, so you can adapt it to what you have on hand. Best of all, it bakes beautifully with minimal effort in the morning.

Ingredients

8 ounces day-old wheat bread, sourdough, or rustic white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
12 ounces chicken or turkey breakfast sausage, casings removed
2 cups low-fat or skim milk
10 large eggs
1½ cups reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup chopped green onions
1 cup sliced mushrooms (white or baby bella)
½ teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray or a light brushing of oil for the baking dish

How to Make Breakfast Strata

1. Toast the Bread

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast for about 8 minutes, until lightly golden and dry. This step helps the bread absorb the egg mixture without becoming mushy. Set aside.

2. Cook the Sausage

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken or turkey sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

4. Assemble the Strata

Add the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, mushrooms, and green onions to the egg mixture. Gently stir until everything is evenly coated.

Lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.

5. Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This resting time allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture.

6. Bake

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and bake the strata for about 50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.

Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Helpful Variations

Replace mushrooms with bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus
Make it vegetarian by skipping the sausage and adding more vegetables
Use mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyère cheese instead of cheddar
For a richer texture, substitute low-fat milk with regular milk

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This breakfast strata is ideal for preparing in advance. Assemble everything the night before, bake in the morning, and serve fresh from the oven.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Once baked, the strata can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a breakfast strata?
A strata is a layered casserole made with bread, eggs, cheese, and savory fillings. It’s similar to a savory baked French toast.

Why does it need to rest overnight?
The resting time allows the eggs and milk to fully soak into the bread, creating a soft and creamy interior once baked.