Breakfast Strada
A hearty breakfast casserole combining savory bacon, sausage, melted Cheddar, and fluffy eggs layered with bread, perfect for weekend brunch or family gatherings. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a crowd-pleaser, especially when baked to golden perfection and served with your favorite breakfast sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry and drain bacon and/or sausage, if desired.
- Butter a lasagna pan.
- Cube the bread and place half on the bottom of the pan.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese on top.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and sausage and sprinkle on top.
- Add the remaining bread cubes, then the rest of the cheese on top.
- Beat eggs, milk, salt, pepper, dry mustard, and Worcestershire sauce together and pour over the layered ingredients.
- Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
- The next morning, bake at 325°F for 1 to 1.5 hours until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly healthier version, consider using turkey bacon or chicken sausage instead of traditional pork. You can also swap out the Cheddar cheese for a mix of mozzarella and pepper jack for a unique flavor twist. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the meats with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and spinach. Make sure to let it rest before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Breakfast Strada with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Country Style Baked Beans for a more filling brunch spread. Consider adding a dollop of salsa or hot sauce on top for an extra kick, and don't forget to brew a strong pot of coffee or tea to complement your breakfast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place portions in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it's tightly wrapped and consumed within 2 months for best quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breakfast Strada contains roughly 1447 calories, with 45g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (115% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value), and protein (90% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1852mg per serving (81% 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 this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Preparing the Breakfast Strada the night before allows the flavors to develop. Just follow the recipe up to the point of baking, cover it with foil, and refrigerate overnight. This makes it a perfect dish for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
What can I substitute for the milk?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk as a substitute. For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half or heavy cream, but be aware this will also increase the calorie count. Adjust the consistency with a bit of water if needed.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the egg mixture before pouring it over the layers. You can also opt for spicy sausage instead of regular sausage. This dish's versatility allows you to customize it to your taste preferences.
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).