If you are searching for a comforting, indulgent morning dish that feels like a warm embrace, this Maple Sausage Breakfast Strata Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the perfect harmony of sweet maple syrup mingling with savory breakfast sausage, nestled among tender cubes of soft bread and melted cheddar cheese, all soaked in a rich custard and baked to golden perfection. This strata is not only a showstopper at brunch gatherings but also a delightful way to start any weekend with smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the irresistible layers of flavor, texture, and color in the Maple Sausage Breakfast Strata Recipe. From the buttery softness of the bread to the bright herbal notes and rich custard, everything comes together perfectly.
- 27 ounces sandwich bread (King’s Hawaiian preferred, crusts removed, cut into 1-inch cubes): Using King’s Hawaiian bread adds subtle sweetness and soft texture that soaks up the custard beautifully.
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (e.g., Jimmy Dean brand): Provides a savory and mildly spiced backbone that balances the sweet maple syrup.
- â…“ cup 100% pure maple syrup: Adds that signature warmth and sweetness that ties the whole dish together.
- 4 tablespoons salted butter: Essential for sautéing the onions and thyme while adding richness.
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme: Fresh herbs bring a subtle, earthy fragrance that brightens every bite.
- 1 yellow onion, chopped (about ¾ to 1 cup): Sautéed onions give a sweet and tender contrast to the sausage.
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste: Adds a touch of savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (plus optional ½ cup for extra topping, if desired): Sharp cheddar melts beautifully, providing gooey pockets of flavor.
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley lifts the strata with its bright, herbaceous notes and a splash of green.
- 6 large eggs: The eggs create the custard that binds everything together with a creamy texture.
- 2 cups half & half: Adds richness to the custard, making the strata tender and luscious.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances and balances the flavors throughout the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Just enough to add a subtle, warm kick.
How to Make Maple Sausage Breakfast Strata Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Bread
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Carefully remove the crusts from the bread and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Be sure to discard the end pieces, as they tend to be too dense. Toss the bread cubes into a large mixing bowl and set aside; these will soak up the delicious custard later.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage with Maple Syrup
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage until it is no longer pink and wonderfully browned. Then pour the maple syrup right into the pan and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, letting the sausage caramelize slightly. This step infuses the meat with that essential sweet-savory flavor. Transfer the sausage and syrup mixture into the bowl with the bread cubes.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Thyme
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and melt the salted butter. Add fresh thyme sprigs and the chopped onion, sautéing until the onions are soft and translucent, around 5 minutes. Next, stir in the garlic paste and cook just one more minute to awaken the aroma. Remove the thyme sprigs and transfer this fragrant mixture to the bread and sausage bowl.
Step 4: Combine Bread Mixture
Now add the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley into the bowl. Gently toss everything together so the cheese distributes evenly and the parsley adds a fresh pop of green. Then, transfer this hearty mixture into your prepared baking dish and press down gently to create an even layer ready to soak in the custard.
Step 5: Prepare and Pour the Custard
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, half & half, sea salt, and ground black pepper until everything is well combined and smooth. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the bread and sausage layer in the baking dish, allowing the bread to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Step 6: Refrigerate Overnight or for At Least 2 Hours
Cover your dish tightly with plastic wrap and transfer it to the fridge for a minimum of 2 hours or even overnight. This soaking time is key—it lets the bread absorb the custard fully, making the strata delectably tender and cohesive once baked.
Step 7: Bake the Strata
When ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes until the strata puffs slightly and the top turns a beautiful golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the aroma fills your kitchen with cozy goodness.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the strata from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. For an extra touch of maple magic, drizzle a little more maple syrup on top if you like your strata with a sweet finish. Now, gather your loved ones and dig in!
How to Serve Maple Sausage Breakfast Strata Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme leaves on top adds a lovely burst of color and freshness. If you want to highlight the maple note even more, don’t hesitate to drizzle an additional splash of pure maple syrup right before serving.
Side Dishes
This strata pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh fruit like berries or sliced oranges to balance the richness. A side of lightly dressed greens or a simple arugula salad can add a peppery contrast that’s refreshing alongside the hearty strata.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your maple sausage strata in rustic cast iron skillets for a cozy vibe, or arrange slices on a wooden board with small bowls of maple syrup and hot sauce for guests to customize each bite. This dish also shines in individual ramekins for special occasions, making it feel personal and polished.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover strata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it just as delightful the next day. Simply cover it well to maintain moisture and freshness.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead even further, this strata freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months for a perfect make-ahead breakfast option.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. Microwaving works in a pinch, but baking helps retain the beautiful texture and crispy top.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this strata?
Absolutely! While King’s Hawaiian bread offers delightful sweetness and softness, you can substitute with challah, brioche, or even a sturdy French bread. Just make sure to remove crusts and use a slightly sweet or neutral bread for best results.
What if I don’t have garlic paste? Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, fresh minced garlic works great too. Use about 2 cloves minced finely and add it during the onion sauté step. Garlic paste is handy for an even distribution of flavor, but fresh garlic brings a nice subtle punch as well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, swap the breakfast sausage for a plant-based sausage alternative or sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a savory flavor boost. The maple syrup and cheese will still create that delicious sweet and savory balance.
Can I prepare the strata completely the night before and bake it in the morning?
Yes! This strata is perfect for make-ahead convenience. Assemble everything, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh in the morning for a warm, flavorful breakfast with minimal morning fuss.
How sweet is the maple flavor in this recipe?
The maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness that complements the savory sausage without overwhelming it. If you love the maple flavor, feel free to add a drizzle on top before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a breakfast dish that brings sweet and savory flavors together in perfect harmony, and this Maple Sausage Breakfast Strata Recipe does just that spectacularly. Whether you’re hosting brunch, feeding a crowd, or simply treating yourself on a slow morning, this recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try and enjoy every delicious, comforting bite!
Print
Maple Sausage Breakfast Strata Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sausage Breakfast Strata is a savory and satisfying baked casserole that combines tender cubes of sandwich bread, flavorful ground breakfast sausage cooked in maple syrup, sautéed onions with garlic and thyme, sharp cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, and a rich custard of eggs and half & half. Refrigerated overnight to soak up the custard, then baked to a golden perfection, this dish is perfect for a hearty brunch or breakfast serving 12 people.
Ingredients
Bread
- 27 ounces sandwich bread (King’s Hawaiian preferred, crusts removed, cut into 1-inch cubes)
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (e.g., Jimmy Dean brand)
- â…“ cup 100% pure maple syrup
Onion Mixture
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 yellow onion, chopped (about ¾ to 1 cup)
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
Cheese and Herbs
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (plus optional ½ cup for extra topping, if desired)
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
Custard
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups half & half
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and set it aside. Remove the crusts from the bread and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Discard the end pieces and add the cubed bread to a large mixing bowl.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage until no longer pink. Pour in the maple syrup and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to caramelize slightly. Transfer the cooked sausage to the mixing bowl with the bread.
- Prepare the Onion Mixture: Reduce heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the fresh thyme sprigs and chopped onion, sautéing for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the garlic paste and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring continuously. Remove thyme sprigs and transfer the mixture to the mixing bowl.
- Combine Bread Mixture: Add shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley to the bowl containing bread, sausage, and onion mixture. Toss gently to combine, then transfer the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Press down gently to distribute uniformly.
- Make the Custard: In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the eggs, half & half, sea salt, and ground black pepper until fully blended.
- Pour Custard Over Mixture: Pour the custard evenly over the bread mixture in the baking dish.
- Refrigerate the Strata: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight to allow the bread and other ingredients to fully absorb the custard.
- Bake the Strata: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the strata uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, until it puffs slightly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Slice the strata and serve immediately. Optionally, drizzle with additional maple syrup for a subtle sweetness.
Notes
- Using King’s Hawaiian bread adds a subtle sweetness and light texture to the strata, but any sandwich bread will work.
- Removing bread crusts ensures a more tender and uniform texture in the baked strata.
- Refrigerating overnight improves flavor melding and custard absorption.
- For extra richness, sprinkle additional cheese on top before baking.
- The maple syrup adds a nice balance of sweetness to the savory sausage.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, but are best enjoyed fresh.
