Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1 loaf (12 oz; 340 g) stale bread, cubed
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
  • Hot sauce or salsa (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add onion and bell pepper. Sauté until tender.
  4. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cubed bread, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and half the shredded cheese.
  7. Pour egg mixture over the bread mixture; gently toss to combine.
  8. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
  9. Cover with plastic wrap and let it chill for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
  10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  11. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the strata is set and golden brown.
  12. Let cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.