Brunch Egg Strata
A hearty brunch casserole combining bread, eggs, bacon, broccoli, and cheese, perfect for weekend gatherings or family brunches with savory, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Spread cubed bread on the bottom of the pan.
- Sprinkle fried bacon and broccoli over the bread.
- Top with cheese.
- Beat together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over all the ingredients in the pan.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 325°F for 1 hour or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of different cheeses such as cheddar and mozzarella. You can also substitute cooked sausage or ham for the bacon if desired. Adding herbs like chives or parsley can elevate the flavor profile. Make sure to let the strata sit overnight to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully, ensuring a moist texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the brunch egg strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a brunch cocktail like a mimosa or Bloody Mary for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover egg strata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply slice and place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brunch Egg Strata contains roughly 514 calories, with 9g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 729mg per serving (32% 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 egg strata ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the strata the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the egg mixture. Just make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
What can I use instead of broccoli?
If you're not a fan of broccoli, you can substitute it with other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just make sure to sauté them first to release excess moisture, which will help maintain the texture of the strata.
How do I know when the strata is done baking?
The strata is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It should also puff up slightly during baking. If it’s browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
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).