Introduction

Cheesy Breakfast Strata with ham and vegetables is the ultimate make-ahead dish for your breakfast or brunch gatherings. This hearty casserole is packed with layers of rustic bread, savory ham, sweet bell peppers, sharp Parmesan cheese, and a rich custard made of eggs and milk. It’s a comforting dish that is not only easy to prepare but also delivers incredible flavors that everyone will love. Preparing this dish the night before means all you have to do in the morning is pop it in the oven, making it a stress-free addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Breakfast Strata

There are countless reasons to adore this Cheesy Breakfast Strata. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can include your favorite ingredients like veggies or different types of cheese. Second, it serves a crowd perfectly, making it ideal for brunch parties. Third, it’s a Cheesy Breakfast Casserole that can be made ahead, saving you time in the morning. Fourth, the combination of bread and eggs creates a delightful texture that everyone enjoys. Furthermore, it’s a gluten-free meal option, appealing to a range of dietary needs. Lastly, it’s a great way to use up leftover ham or vegetables, minimizing food waste!

Ingredients for Cheesy Breakfast Strata

Gather these items:

1 large (12 ounce) loaf French bread or any plain bread, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cooked ham or bacon, finely chopped
1 ½ cups Parmesan cheese, shredded
10 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 cup fresh green onions, finely chopped
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

How to Make Cheesy Breakfast Strata Step-by-Step

Step 1: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole pan with oil or butter to prevent sticking, then evenly arrange the chopped bread pieces in the pan to form the strata base.
Step 2: Spread the diced red bell pepper, finely chopped ham or bacon, and shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the bread layer to distribute the flavors uniformly.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, Dijon mustard, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Pour the egg custard mixture evenly over the bread and toppings in the pan. Use a spatula to gently press down the bread so that all pieces absorb the custard thoroughly.
Step 5: Cover the casserole pan with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for at least 20 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid. For a make-ahead option, refrigerate overnight.
Step 6: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
Step 7: Place the casserole pan into the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. Bake until the edges are golden brown and the egg mixture is fully set; a knife inserted near the center should come out clean.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Breakfast Strata

Keep these in mind:

This dish is ideal for feeding a crowd.
Assemble it the night before for minimal effort in the morning.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Consider adding spinach or mushrooms for a Breakfast Strata with Veggies and Cheese.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Breakfast Strata

Enjoy your Cheesy Breakfast Strata fresh from the oven or allow it to cool slightly before serving. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or serve it alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast. Pair it with fresh fruit or a simple yogurt for a complete meal. This Cheesy Overnight Breakfast Strata can also be a delightful centerpiece for any brunch table.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Breakfast Strata

To store your leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave or bake in a preheated oven until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen, making it an excellent choice for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Breakfast Strata

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Breakfast Strata?

The secret lies in letting the bread soak in the custard mixture long enough. This ensures every bite is flavorful and moist, resulting in a delicious Cheesy Egg Strata Recipe that’s rich and satisfying.

Can I make Cheesy Breakfast Strata ahead of time?

Absolutely! That’s one of the best features of this dish. You can assemble it the night before, refrigerate it overnight, and bake it in the morning. This makes it a fantastic option for busy mornings or special occasions.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Breakfast Strata?

To avoid a soggy bottom, ensure your bread is slightly stale before using it. Additionally, don’t skip the soaking step, as it allows the bread to absorb the flavors properly, making your Easy Cheesy Breakfast Bake a success!

Variations of Cheesy Breakfast Strata You Can Try

There are endless possibilities when it comes to customizing your Cheesy Breakfast Strata. You can create a Vegetarian Cheesy Breakfast Strata by adding more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms instead of meat. For a heartier option, consider a Cheesy Breakfast Strata with Sausage for an extra protein boost. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to find your favorite flavor combination!