Bacon And Egg Strata
A hearty baked casserole featuring smoky bacon, cheesy richness, and savory mushrooms, perfect for brunch or family dinners that satisfy all appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Beat eggs and milk until foamy; set aside.
- Place bread in buttered 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar and Swiss cheeses over bread.
- Add cooked bacon, mushrooms, and diced onion over the cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the ingredients in the pan and let stand for 8 hours or overnight.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until the casserole is crispy and the egg mixture is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the diced onion before adding it to the strata. You can substitute the Cheddar and Swiss cheeses with your favorites, like mozzarella or pepper jack, to create a unique twist. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and add additional vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach. This dish is reminiscent of the Christmas Morn Casserole, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad on the side. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for added flavor. If you're looking for more hearty options, consider serving the strata alongside Pork Chops And Zucchini or a classic breakfast sausage for a filling meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If the strata seems dry, add a splash of milk before reheating to maintain moisture and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon And Egg Strata contains roughly 779 calories, with 26g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (102% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and calcium (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 874mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the strata ahead of time?
Yes, this strata can be prepared the night before. Simply assemble all the ingredients, pour the egg mixture over them, and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture fully, leading to a more flavorful and cohesive dish when baked.
What can I use instead of milk?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or any other non-dairy milk. For a richer flavor, heavy cream can also be used, but you might want to reduce the quantity slightly to maintain the right consistency.
Is it possible to freeze the bacon and egg strata?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked strata. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. It may take a few extra minutes in the oven if baking from a frozen state.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).