Bacon Strata
A savory breakfast casserole with crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms and onions, melted Cheddar, and fluffy bread, perfect for entertaining guests or a hearty weekend brunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp and drain on absorbent paper.
- Reserve 4 tablespoons of bacon drippings.
- Use 1 tablespoon of drippings to grease the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cook chopped onion and canned mushroom stems and pieces in the remaining drippings until tender.
- Arrange slices of bread in the prepared dish.
- Top the bread with the cooked mushroom mixture, shredded Cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in milk and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the dish.
- Refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 35 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using different types of cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack instead of Cheddar. If you don't have bacon, diced ham or cooked sausage can be great substitutes. Ensure the bread is a day or two old; stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better, resulting in a firmer texture. Consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. Bacon strata pairs beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For brunch, consider serving it alongside a refreshing mimosa or coffee. This dish is perfect for gatherings, making it a great alternative to traditional recipes like Egg And Meat Casserole.
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 or oven until heated through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent over-browning. This dish can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months; just thaw and bake per instructions.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Strata contains roughly 792 calories, with 21g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (53% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1064mg per serving (46% 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 prepare the strata without bacon?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using olive oil to sauté the onions and mushrooms. Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor and texture.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the strata the night before and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to bake it in the morning for a fresh, hot breakfast.
What type of bread works best for strata?
Sturdy, dense bread like sourdough, French bread, or even whole grain works best, as it holds up better when soaked in the egg mixture. Avoid using soft sandwich bread, as it may become too mushy.
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).