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Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata

Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata: A Cozy Brunch Delight

A delicious Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata that offers a comforting blend of savory bacon, rich cheeses, and chewy bread, perfect for brunch.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Refrigeration Time 8 hours
Total Time 9 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Strata
  • 8 slices Bacon Crispy texture; substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Use half-and-half for richer flavor or any milk alternative for lighter version.
  • 8 large Eggs Key ingredient; no substitutions recommended.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard For tangy kick; yellow mustard can be a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat; omit for milder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Use for greasing the dish; olive oil as dairy-free option.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh garlic preferred.
  • 4 large Green Onions Sliced; regular onions can be substituted.
  • 1.5 cups Frozen Chopped Spinach Thawed and squeezed dry; fresh spinach can also be used.
  • 6 cups Challah Bread Cubed; brioche or similar textured bread as alternative.
  • 0.75 cups Shredded Extra-Sharp Cheddar For rich flavor profile.
  • 0.75 cups Gruyere For rich flavor profile.
  • 0.75 cups Parmesan For rich flavor profile.
For Serving Suggestions
  • 2 cups Fresh Fruit Seasonal fruit pairs well.
  • 4 cups Coffee or Mimosas Beverages that complement the dish.

Equipment

  • casserole dish
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of whole milk, 8 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and a pinch of red pepper flakes until well combined.
  2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic, 4 sliced green onions, and 1 ½ cups of thawed, squeezed-dry frozen chopped spinach. Sauté for about 4 minutes.
  3. Grease an 11x13-inch casserole dish with butter. Place 6 cups of cubed challah bread in the dish, spreading it out evenly. Pour the sautéed spinach mixture over the bread and gently toss.
  4. Slowly pour the whisked milk and egg mixture evenly over the bread and stir in ¾ cup each of shredded extra-sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F. Allow strata to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Sprinkle remaining cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
  7. Bake for about 30 minutes until the top is puffed and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 250mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Stale bread is key for optimal texture; customize ingredients as desired.

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