Start your day on a flavorful note with the Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata – a delightful union of smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and layers of bread soaked in a savory egg custard. This baked casserole is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a time-saving wonder, as it can be prepared the night before. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the step-by-step process of crafting this breakfast masterpiece that promises to make mornings extraordinary.
Ingredients:
For the Strata Base:
- 8 slices of hearty white bread, cubed
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Egg Custard:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup additional shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Prep and Layer:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread half of the cubed bread in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and chopped parsley over the bread.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, bacon, cheese, and herbs.
- Prepare the Egg Custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour Custard Over Layers:
- Pour the egg custard evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Ensure that the custard coats each bread cube for a rich and flavorful result.
- Press Down and Refrigerate:
- Gently press down on the bread layers to ensure even absorption of the custard.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat and Top with Cheese:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sprinkle the additional shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the strata just before baking.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake the Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the custard is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Allow the strata to rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with additional chopped parsley, if desired.
- Slice and Serve:
- Slice into squares or rectangles, serve warm, and enjoy the layers of smoky bacon, melted cheddar, and custardy goodness.
Cook Notes:
- Bread Selection: Choose a sturdy white bread or artisan loaf for the strata to hold up well to the custard.
- Custard Absorption: Ensure that the bread cubes are evenly coated with the egg custard for a consistent texture throughout the strata.
- Refrigeration Time: Allowing the strata to refrigerate for an extended period enhances the flavors and ensures a moist and flavorful result.
- Bacon Texture: Crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces, aiming for a balanced distribution of bacon throughout the strata.
Variations:
Vegetarian Twist:
- Omit the bacon and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Spicy Kick:
- Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to add a spicy kick to the strata.
Herb-Infused Elegance:
- Mix in fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or chives into the egg custard for an herb-infused flavor profile.
Keto Version:
- Substitute white bread with a keto-friendly bread or almond flour bread for a low-carb alternative.
- Use unsweetened almond milk or another low-carb milk substitute in place of whole milk.
- Opt for keto-friendly cheese options, and ensure the bacon is free of added sugars.
Low-Carb Version:
- Choose a low-carb bread alternative or use cauliflower rice for the base of the strata.
- Replace whole milk with a low-carb milk alternative in the egg custard.
- Customize the strata with low-carb vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers.
The Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata is a celebration of breakfast indulgence, offering a perfect balance of savory flavors and comforting textures. Whether enjoyed as a family breakfast or a delightful brunch centerpiece, this strata brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite. So, dive into the layers of smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and custardy goodness, and make each morning a delicious adventure with this irresistible breakfast masterpiece!
