SAUSAGE, GRUYERE AND ONION STRATA

Steps:

• Over medium heat in large skillet, heat sausage, stirring with wooden spoon to crumble, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
• Strain sausage of fat, and set aside.
• Return skillet to medium heat; add onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring, until golden, about 8-10 minutes.
• Add garlic and cook for another minute.
• Stir in parsley, salt, and a good grind of black pepper.
• Add sausage and stir to combine; set aside.
• In a large bowl, whisk eggs until foamy.
• Add milk and blend.
• Add 1 teaspoon salt and a grind of black pepper.
• To assemble: lightly coat a 2 quart shallow baking dish with oil.
• Use half the bread slices to make a single layer; cut, if necessary, so they fit in tightly together.
• Spoon sausage mixture over bread; sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese.
• Make a second layer of bread, and pour the egg mixture evenly across, using a spatula to press down on the bread for even absorption.
• Top with remaining cheese.
• Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
• Preheat oven to 350-degrees.
• Uncover strata and bake until puffed and browned, about 45 minutes.