Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake – Breakfast Casserole Recipe

[LeeJung]

Are you familiar with cheese and bacon strata cake? If not, you should probably try it! It's our favorite weekend breakfast or brunch. It's a savory breakfast casserole that layers bread, eggs, cheese, and bacon into a “cake."

Ingredients (Serves 6-8):​

• 8 slices of day-old bread, crusts removed, cut into cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups (500 ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (125 ml) heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:​

1. Prepare the Bread Base:​

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or casserole dish.
2. Spread the bread cubes evenly across the base of the pan.

2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:​

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream (if using), mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Layer the Casserole:​

1. Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread cubes. Use a spatula to press the bread down so it absorbs the liquid.
2. Sprinkle half of the cheese and bacon over the soaked bread.
3. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, egg mixture, cheese, and bacon. Press down lightly to compact the layers.

4. Let It Rest (Optional but Recommended):​

• Cover the pan with foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to let the bread soak up the egg mixture.

5. Bake the Strata Cake:​

1. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator (if chilled) and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
2. Bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

6. Garnish and Serve:​

1. Let the casserole cool slightly before removing it from the pan (if using a springform pan).
2. Sprinkle with green onions and serve warm.

Tips for Success:​

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the strata the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
• Variations: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies. Use sausage or ham instead of bacon.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free bread.

This cheese and bacon strata cake is hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly savory—a true crowd-pleaser!

 

[KainGo127]

OMG, this sounds like the ultimate breakfast treat! Layers of cheesy, bacon goodness? Count me in! Perfect for brunch or a cozy weekend morning. Can’t wait to try it!