If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious breakfast option that can feed a crowd, the Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake is the perfect recipe. This comforting breakfast casserole is packed with savory flavors and is surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s great for special occasions, lazy weekends, or busy weekday mornings when you want something satisfying.
Why Make This Recipe
Making a breakfast strata is an excellent choice because it combines simple ingredients into a delightful dish. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy mornings or brunch gatherings. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just feeding your family, this recipe is sure to impress!
How to Make Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake
Ingredients
- 300g / 10 oz bacon, diced (or ham)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk (full cream or low fat)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Black pepper
- 7 cups (packed) plain bread (preferably slightly stale, like baguettes), cut into 2 cm / 1 inch cubes
- 2 cups cheese, shredded
- Parsley, finely chopped (garnish – optional)
Directions
Cook bacon: Heat a large non-stick frying pan over high heat. If you’re not using a non-stick pan, add a bit of oil. Add all but 2 tablespoons of the diced bacon (reserve some for topping later) and cook until lightly browned. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain it on a paper towel.
Whisk eggs and milk: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper.
Soak bread: Add the bread cubes, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese, and the cooked bacon to the egg mixture. Mix everything well. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge to soak for at least 30 minutes or overnight until the bread absorbs the egg mixture.
To Cook: Preheat your oven to about 350°F (175°C). Transfer the soaked mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle the reserved bacon and remaining cheese on top, and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until it is puffed and golden brown.
How to Serve Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake
Let the strata cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. You can garnish it with finely chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve it warm on its own or with a side of fresh fruit and coffee for a complete breakfast experience.
How to Store Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The strata can be kept for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or place slices in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake
- Use stale bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better and adds to the texture.
- Prepare ahead: This dish is perfect for overnight preparation, allowing the flavors to meld together nicely.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to toss in some sautéed spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta. You can also substitute the bacon with cooked sausage or add veggies for a vegetarian version.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread?
- Yes! You can use any bread you like, such as whole grain or sourdough, as long as it’s slightly stale.
Can this be frozen?
- Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up.
Is it necessary to soak the bread overnight?
- Soaking overnight is ideal for the best texture, but if you’re short on time, soaking for at least 30 minutes works too.
Enjoy making this Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake, and watch as it becomes a new favorite for your breakfast table!
Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 300 g bacon, diced or ham
- 6 large eggs
- 1.25 cups milk (full cream or low fat)
- 0.25 tsp salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 7 cups plain bread, cut into 2 cm cubes preferably slightly stale, like baguettes
- 2 cups cheese, shredded
- to taste Parsley, finely chopped garnish – optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large non-stick frying pan over high heat. Add all but 2 tablespoons of the diced bacon and cook until lightly browned. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain it on a paper towel.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the bread cubes, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese, and the cooked bacon to the egg mixture. Mix everything well. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge to soak for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Cooking
- Preheat your oven to about 350°F (175°C). Transfer the soaked mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle the reserved bacon and remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for about 45-50 minutes or until it is puffed and golden brown.
Serving
- Let the strata cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Garnish with finely chopped parsley, and serve warm.
