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Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata

Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata: A Cozy Brunch Delight

This Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata is a perfect make-ahead recipe for busy mornings, combining layers of bread, savory bacon, and rich cheese.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Refrigeration Time 8 hours
Total Time 9 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Strata
  • 6 cups challah bread, cubed or brioche/gluten-free bread
  • 8 large eggs can use egg substitutes
  • 2 cups whole milk or plant-based milk
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard yellow mustard is an alternative
  • 1 dash red pepper flakes omit for milder dish
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt use less if using table salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground recommended
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter use olive oil for dairy-free
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced can substitute with garlic powder
  • 4 pieces green onions, chopped or shallots
  • 1 cup frozen chopped spinach fresh spinach can be substituted
  • 3/4 cup extra-sharp cheddar, grated any sharp cheese can substitute
  • 3/4 cup Gruyere cheese, grated Swiss cheese can be an alternative
  • 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan Pecorino Romano works well
  • 1 cup bacon, crumbled can use turkey bacon for a lighter option

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • Skillet
  • casserole dish
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together whole milk, eggs, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes. Mix in half of the crumbled bacon and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, chopped green onions, and frozen spinach. Sauté for about 4 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Grease an 11x13 casserole dish with melted butter. Position it for easy access.
  4. Place cubed challah bread in the greased casserole dish. Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the bread, and gently toss to combine.
  5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and vegetable blend. Fold in the grated cheeses.
  6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Let strata sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
  8. Sprinkle remaining cheese and bacon on top. Bake for 30 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 18gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This dish can be prepared a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. For best results, use stale bread and freshly shredded cheese.

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