Savor the perfect harmony of sweet and savory with this Sausage Cranberry Strata, a comforting breakfast casserole that's just as delightful for brunch or dinner. Featuring Italian sausage, tangy dried cranberries, and a creamy blend of cheddar and cream cheese, this dish pairs rich flavors with a touch of sweetness from maple syrup. Cubed day-old bread soaks up a luscious egg custard infused with milk and heavy cream, creating a light, airy texture with a satisfyingly crispy top. Ideal for holiday gatherings or family meals, this make-ahead-friendly strata promises to be the star of your table. Serve it warm and let the golden-baked goodness impress every palate.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter and set it aside.
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, dried cranberries, shredded cheddar cheese, and cubed cream cheese. Mix gently to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Scatter the cooked sausage over the bread mixture in the bowl and toss lightly to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread-sausage mixture. Use a spatula to gently press down, ensuring the bread absorbs the liquid.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Remove from the oven and let the strata cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Calories |
8563 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 400.8 g | 514% | |
| Saturated Fat | 189.6 g | 948% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 2105 mg | 702% | |
| Sodium | 15501 mg | 674% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 899.3 g | 327% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 58.0 g | 207% | |
| Total Sugars | 202.6 g | ||
| Protein | 315.4 g | 631% | |
| Vitamin D | 12.3 mcg | 62% | |
| Calcium | 2890 mg | 222% | |
| Iron | 51.3 mg | 285% | |
| Potassium | 4118 mg | 88% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.