Looking for a dish that effortlessly combines comfort and sophistication? Look no further than this delightful Egg and Cheese Strata! Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, this savory casserole is packed with flavor and is sure to impress your guests. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that not only looks stunning but also tastes divine. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you step by step to create a mouthwatering strata that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let's get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your strata will cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent the strata from sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread and diced onion. Toss them together gently to ensure the onion is evenly distributed among the bread cubes.
- In another mixing bowl, crack the 8 large eggs and whisk them together until well beaten. Add the 2 cups of milk to the eggs and continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Stir in the salt and pepper to taste into the egg and milk mixture. This will season your strata and enhance its flavor.
- Gradually pour the egg mixture over the bread and onion mixture in the baking dish. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring that all the bread cubes are soaked in the egg mixture.
- Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the strata mixture. You can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and let the strata sit for about 15 minutes. This allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully.
- After 15 minutes, remove the foil and place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the strata is set in the middle and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the strata from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to serve and helps the strata hold its shape.
- Cut the strata into squares and serve warm. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, opt for a sturdy bread like sourdough or French bread. These types hold up well when soaked in the egg mixture and add a wonderful flavor.
- Let it Soak: Allowing the strata to sit for 15 minutes after pouring in the egg mixture is crucial. This gives the bread time to absorb all the delicious flavors and ensures a moist, rich dish.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack can add unique flavors to your strata.
- Add Veggies or Meats: Want to customize your strata? Consider adding cooked spinach, bell peppers, or even crumbled sausage or bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with a Side: This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich strata.
- Perfect for Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge and reheated for a quick breakfast or snack the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 250mg
