Baked Egg Strata
A hearty baked egg strata combining crispy croutons, sharp Cheddar cheese, and savory bacon for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. The rich, cheesy flavor pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon, making it ideal for family gatherings or weekend indulgence. Easy to prepare and bake ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Pour the unseasoned croutons into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle grated sharp Cheddar cheese over the croutons.
- In a bowl, beat 12 eggs until well blended.
- Add Carnation milk and enough regular milk to make 4 cups total.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the liquid mixture evenly over the croutons and cheese in the pan.
- Refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- In the morning, cook the bacon until crispy and crumble it over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour until puffed and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, in addition to sharp Cheddar. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked bacon or substitute with turkey bacon. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Ensure the croutons are stale to absorb the egg mixture better without becoming mushy.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Egg Strata is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a light salad like Cold Broccoli Salad or Fresh Broccoli Mandarin Salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside gammon or crispy hash browns. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch and to elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Egg Strata contains roughly 270 calories, with 10g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1345mg per serving (58% 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 this strata ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is ideal for preparing a day in advance. Assemble everything the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight, making it a convenient option for busy mornings.
Can I use different types of bread instead of croutons?
Absolutely! You can use stale bread, such as French or sourdough, cut into cubes as a substitute for croutons. Just ensure the bread is a bit dried out so it absorbs the egg mixture without getting too soggy.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You could also add some herbs or spices to enhance the flavor without the meat.
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).