Italian Sausage Strata

Makes 4 servings

1/2 pound Italian sausages (sweet, hot, or combination)
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1 medium-size onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
1 can (16 ounces) tomatoes, drained
1/2 loaf Italian bread
3 eggs
2 1/2 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

Bake at 325° for 1 hour.

1. Remove casing from sausages. Brown sausage in a large skillet about 10 minutes, breaking up with a wooden spoon as it browns. Stir in green pepper and onion. Cook another 5 minutes; add tomatoes, breaking up pieces. Cook 15 minutes to remove most of the liquid.

2. Slice bread; place half the slices in bottom of buttered 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking pan; spread with meat mixture. Top with remaining bread.

3. Beat eggs in medium-size bowl. Stir in milk and salt. Pour over bread. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight.

4. Bake in a moderate oven (325°) for 1 hour or until puffed and golden. Remove to wire rack. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.