Egg-N-Cheese Strata
Egg-N-Cheese Strata is a hearty, savory breakfast casserole with cheesy layers and fluffy eggs, perfect for brunch gatherings or weekend family mornings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter the bread slices and cut them into small cubes.
- Layer the bread cubes and shredded cheese alternately in a buttered 2-quart casserole dish.
- In a bowl, blend together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and cheese layers.
- Cover the casserole and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and Gruyère. If you don't have day-old bread, lightly toast fresh bread to achieve a similar texture. You can also add sautéed vegetables or cooked meats for variation. Additionally, try using half-and-half instead of milk for a creamier consistency. This dish is a great way to use leftovers, so feel free to get creative!
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Egg-N-Cheese Strata warm, topped with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. It also makes a delightful brunch option alongside pastries or muffins, such as Seba J. Jones' Easy Pound Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover strata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave for a quick warm-up, or bake in an oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Covering it with foil can help retain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Egg-N-Cheese Strata contains roughly 454 calories, with 9g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 772mg per serving (34% 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 the strata without refrigerating it overnight?
Yes, you can bake it right after assembling, but refrigerating overnight allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully, resulting in a creamier texture. If you're short on time, let it sit for at least 30 minutes before baking.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Day-old white or whole wheat bread is ideal, as it holds up well when soaked in the egg mixture. However, you can also use sourdough or brioche for added flavor. Just ensure it's not too fresh, as it can become mushy.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! The recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it includes eggs and cheese. You can enhance the flavor by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. This versatility makes it a great fit for various dietary 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).