If you are craving a hearty, delicious breakfast that combines the best flavors of crispy bacon and melted cheese baked into a fluffy, custardy bread pudding, look no further than this **Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake (Breakfast Casserole) Recipe**. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for leisurely weekend mornings or special occasions, delivering layers of savory goodness in every bite. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and comforting familiarity, transforming humble ingredients into a satisfying meal that warms both your belly and your heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this breakfast casserole is straightforward, and the ingredients are nothing fancy yet incredibly essential. Each component plays a role, whether it’s adding texture, moisture, or that rich, savory punch that keeps you coming back for more.
- Bacon (300g / 10 oz, diced): Adds a smoky, crispy bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy eggs.
- Eggs (6 large): The binding force of the dish, creating that custard-like base.
- Milk (1 1/4 cups, full cream or low fat): Moisturizes the bread and enriches the custard texture.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (to taste): Provides a subtle spice that wakes up the dish.
- Plain bread (7 cups, cut into 2 cm / 1 inch cubes): Preferably slightly stale, it soaks up the egg mixture perfectly without falling apart.
- Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts to gooey perfection, giving a deliciously rich flavor.
- Parsley (finely chopped, for garnish): Adds a fresh, herby note and a pop of color to finish.
How to Make Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake (Breakfast Casserole) Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by heating a large non-stick frying pan over high heat. If your pan isn’t non-stick, add a touch of oil to prevent sticking. Toss in all but 2 tablespoons of the diced bacon—the reserved bacon bits will go on top later for a perfect crispy finish. Cook the bacon until it’s lightly browned and smells irresistible. Drain the cooked bacon on a paper towel to remove excess grease, setting it aside as you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Whisk the Eggs and Milk
In a large bowl—or even a container if you plan to refrigerate overnight—whisk together the six large eggs and 1 1/4 cups of milk. Add the 1/4 teaspoon of salt and a few grinds of black pepper for seasoning. This mixture is the flavorful custard base that will soak the bread cubes and bring everything together.
Step 3: Combine Bread, Cheese, and Bacon
Throw the bread cubes into the egg mixture along with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese and the cooked bacon. Mix everything well so the bread is evenly soaked and coated by the eggy custard. Cover this mixture and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight. This soaking step is the secret behind the strata’s soft, luscious interior.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the soaked bread mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the reserved bacon and the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top to create a beautifully crisp and golden crust while baking. Bake for about 30 minutes, until the strata is puffed, set, and lightly browned on top. Once out of the oven, let it rest a few minutes before slicing—this helps it hold together and enhances the flavors.
How to Serve Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake (Breakfast Casserole) Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for color—it adds a refreshing herbal contrast that balances the richness of the cheese and bacon. You can sprinkle some finely chopped parsley right before serving. For an extra special touch, add a dollop of sour cream or a few thin slices of avocado for creaminess and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This strata pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salads for a bright and juicy counterpoint. Consider serving alongside roasted tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to keep the meal hearty yet wholesome. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a nice way to bring some freshness to the plate without overshadowing the richness of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your brunch guests, cut the strata into neat individual squares and serve on colorful plates with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes. Alternatively, serve it buffet-style in the baking dish accompanied by bowls of toppings and sides, allowing everyone to customize their breakfast experience. Transforming this simple breakfast classic into a shareable feast is always a winning idea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake (Breakfast Casserole) Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when covered tightly with foil or placed in an airtight container. The flavors actually meld even better after sitting, so don’t hesitate to enjoy it cold or reheated!
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions or the whole casserole. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even warming throughout.
Reheating
Reheat your strata gently in a microwave or a 160°C (325°F) oven to avoid drying it out. Cover loosely with foil in the oven to maintain moisture and heat for about 15-20 minutes if reheating a whole dish, or 2-4 minutes in the microwave for single slices. The texture and taste will be almost as good as freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
absolutely! While baguette cubes are ideal for their sturdiness and texture, you can substitute with other breads like sourdough, ciabatta, or even a sturdy sandwich bread. Just make sure the bread is slightly stale so it soaks up the custard well without getting too mushy.
Is it necessary to soak the bread overnight?
While soaking for at least 30 minutes works, soaking overnight in the fridge really enhances the texture and flavor, allowing the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture for a moist, custardy result.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the bacon for sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or a plant-based bacon alternative to keep the hearty, savory vibes without meat.
What kind of cheese works best?
A melty cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both is perfect for this strata. You want a cheese that melts smoothly and adds creaminess without overwhelming the dish.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free bread cubes instead of regular bread, and follow the recipe as is. The texture and flavor will be just as satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Making the **Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake (Breakfast Casserole) Recipe** is truly a joyful experience because it combines ease, flavor, and comfort all in one wonderful dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a lazy morning ritual, this casserole promises to become one of your favorite breakfast traditions. So gather those simple ingredients and get ready to share some smiles around the breakfast table!
Print
Cheese & Bacon Breakfast Strata Cake (Breakfast Casserole) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting breakfast casserole featuring layers of savory bacon, shredded cheese, and cubed bread soaked in a seasoned egg and milk mixture. Perfect for making ahead and baking for a delicious morning meal that serves eight.
Ingredients
Bacon
- 300g / 10 oz bacon, diced (or ham)
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk (full cream or low fat)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Bread and Cheese
- 7 cups (packed) plain bread (preferably slightly stale baguettes), cut into 2 cm / 1 inch cubes
- 2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar or a blend)
Garnish (Optional)
- Parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Cook bacon: Heat a large non-stick frying pan over high heat and add a small amount of oil if needed. Cook all but 2 tablespoons of the diced bacon until lightly browned and crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan, drain on paper towels, and set aside the reserved bacon for topping.
- Whisk eggs and milk: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until fully combined. This will create the custard base for the strata.
- Soak bread: Add the cubed bread, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese, and the cooked bacon to the egg mixture. Stir gently to ensure all the bread is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard mixture thoroughly. This can be done overnight for convenience.
- Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking dish suitable for an 8-serving casserole.
- Fill and top casserole: Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the reserved 2 tablespoons of bacon and the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before sprinkling with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm as a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish.
Notes
- Using slightly stale bread helps it absorb the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.
- Cheese types like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend work well for this recipe.
- The strata can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning, making it ideal for busy mornings or entertaining.
- For a lower fat option, use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of bacon or substitute with lean ham.
