Breakfast Strata is a savory, make-ahead egg casserole layered with bread, cheese, and your favorite mix-ins like veggies or meats. It’s ideal for brunch or holiday mornings.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:45–55 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 15 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield:8 servings
Category:Breakfast
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
6 cups stale bread, cubed (French, sourdough, or Italian)
8 large eggs
2 1/2 cups milk or half-and-half
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, Gruyère, or mix)
1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, bacon, or ham (optional)
1 1/2 cups chopped vegetables (spinach, bell pepper, onion, mushrooms)
1–2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing vegetables)
Instructions
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Sauté chopped vegetables in olive oil or butter over medium heat until softened. Let cool slightly.
Spread cubed bread evenly in the baking dish.
Top with sautéed vegetables, cooked meat (if using), and shredded cheese.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and toppings.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to soak.
When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the center is set and top is golden.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best texture.
Letting the strata soak overnight gives a richer, custardy result.
Customize with any combination of meats, cheeses, and veggies you like.
Can be baked in muffin tins for individual portions.