This Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata is a tasty and easy dish perfect for mornings. It layers bread, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar in a creamy egg mixture.
It’s like a breakfast casserole that makes everyone happy! I love serving it on lazy Sunday mornings when I want something warm and comforting. 🥓✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds tons of flavor and a nice texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or even plant-based bacon can work well, though they may not be as crispy. I prefer regular bacon for its rich flavor.
Day-old Bread: Sourdough or French bread is ideal as it soaks up the egg mixture beautifully. If you don’t have these, any sturdy bread like ciabatta or even whole wheat works just fine. Just make sure it’s a bit stale to prevent sogginess.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice burst of color and nutrition. You could substitute it with kale or frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well before using. I love fresh spinach for its tender texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic choice that melts beautifully. If you want a different flavor profile, try using Monterey Jack or a sharp white cheddar. I often mix different types of cheese for extra depth.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient gives a nice tang. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or use yellow mustard for a milder flavor. I find that a little mustard really elevates the taste!
How Do I Perfectly Layer My Strata?
Layering your strata correctly helps with even cooking and flavor distribution. Start by cubing your bread and layering it as the base in a greased dish. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Distribute half of the cheese, spinach, and bacon evenly across the bread layer.
- Pour the egg mixture over carefully, ensuring all bread pieces get soaked. Press down lightly.
- Add remaining cheese on top; it helps create a golden crust.
Letting it sit after assembling is key. This gives time for the bread to soak up the egg mixture fully for a satisfying texture. You can prepare it ahead of time and leave it in the fridge overnight, making it super convenient!
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 5 cups day-old bread, cubed (such as sourdough or French bread)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
Seasonings and Extras:
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Chopped fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 50 minutes to cook, so be ready in about 1 hour and 10 minutes total. Your morning will start off wonderfully with this hearty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden. Once done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess fat. Once cooled, crumble it up into bite-sized pieces.
3. Sauté the Spinach:
Using the same skillet with the leftover bacon fat, add the chopped spinach. Sauté it over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until it’s wilted. Remove it from the heat and set it aside for later.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until everything is well blended. This will be the creamy base for your strata.
5. Layer the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Start by layering the cubed bread evenly in the greased baking dish. Then sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese, followed by the wilted spinach and crumbled bacon on top of the bread layer.
6. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered bread, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Gently press down on the bread with a spatula or your hands to help it soak up all the delicious liquid.
7. Add the Cheese Topping:
Top off your strata with the remaining half of the cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a yummy, cheesy crust as it bakes!
8. Let It Sit:
Cover the baking dish with foil and let it sit for about 20-30 minutes. This resting period lets the bread soak up all the egg mixture, making it extra moist and flavorful.
9. Bake:
Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the strata is fully set.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. If you like, garnish with some fresh herbs for an extra touch. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata!
Can I Use Other Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough or French bread work best, you can use any sturdy bread like whole wheat, rye, or even bagels. Just make sure it’s day-old or slightly stale, as it will absorb the egg mixture better.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and substitute it with cooked mushrooms, red bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and texture. You can also use a little smoked paprika to give a hint of that smoky taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover strata in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the strata the night before, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it. Just remember to extend the baking time by a few minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
