Chili Cheese Strata
A hearty, cheesy casserole with green chilies and bread, perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering warm, spicy, and cheesy flavors that appeal to family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 12 oz. loaf French bread, cut in 1-inch cubes ⓘ
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, divided ⓘ
- 8 oz. jar mild green chili salsa or 4 oz. chopped green chilies and 4 oz. salsa combined
- 4 eggs ⓘ
- 2 cups milk or half and half ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. minced onion ⓘ
- paprika
- 11 oz. can condensed Cheddar cheese soup, undiluted ⓘ
Instructions
- In a greased 2-quart casserole, arrange bread cubes evenly and sprinkle 1 cup of cheese over the cubes.
- Pour chili salsa evenly over the bread and cheese; set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together eggs, milk, minced onion, and undiluted Cheddar cheese soup; pour over the bread mixture.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate for 6 hours or overnight.
- Uncover the casserole and dust the top with paprika.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until lightly browned and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicy salsa instead of mild. If you want a creamier texture, substitute half the milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt. To make this dish more substantial, add cooked ground beef or turkey for a heartier meal. This recipe can also be adapted into vegetarian recipes by omitting meat and adding extra vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Chili Cheese Strata is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top for added flavor. You can also enjoy it alongside Oven Baked Candied Sweet Potatoes for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Cheese Strata contains roughly 718 calories, with 11g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (38% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 681mg per serving (30% 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 Chili Cheese Strata ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can assemble it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Just make sure to bake it the next day without letting it sit out too long to maintain the best texture.
What can I substitute for the bread in this recipe?
You can use any sturdy bread such as sourdough or whole grain bread. Gluten-free bread works well too, making this dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Just ensure it's thick enough to hold up during baking.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat cheese and milk to reduce calories. Additionally, adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can boost the nutritional value, making it a more wholesome option without sacrificing flavor.
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).