Cauliflower Bacon Strata
A hearty baked casserole combining crispy bacon, tender cauliflower, cheesy goodness, and savory flavors, perfect for brunch or family dinners that enjoy comforting, flavorful dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp and drain on paper towels.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cook onion in 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings until tender.
- Arrange bread slices in the prepared dish.
- Top with cooked onion, shredded Cheddar cheese, cooked cauliflower, and bacon slices.
- Combine eggs, milk, salt, and mustard, then pour over the layered ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the egg mixture. If you're out of Cheddar, any melty cheese such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère can work well. For a lighter version, substitute half of the milk with unsweetened almond milk or another plant-based milk. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free bread for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cauliflower Bacon Strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley, and pair it with a simple green salad for a complete meal. This dish also makes a delightful brunch option alongside Eggs Delicious or fresh fruit. For a heartier feast, consider serving it with Southern Barbecue Ribs.
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 about 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cauliflower Bacon Strata contains roughly 768 calories, with 18g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 844mg per serving (37% 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 use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the strata to avoid excess moisture, which can make the dish soggy.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using smoked tempeh or a plant-based bacon alternative. For a lower-fat option, turkey bacon works well and still provides a similar flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use unsweetened plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk, in place of the regular milk.
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).