Description
Looking for a comforting, make-ahead breakfast or brunch option that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare? This Homemade Egg and Cheese Strata is a golden, cheesy, and savory breakfast casserole that layers cubes of hearty bread with eggs, cheese, and ham. Perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or meal prepping busy weekdays, this dish brings warm, custardy texture with a crisp top every time. Whether you’re searching for a quick breakfast, easy recipe, or hearty food idea for brunch or dinner, this strata checks every box with style and flavor.
Ingredients
12 cups cubed day-old French bread or sourdough
8 large eggs
2 ½ cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup cooked ham, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Butter or non-stick spray for greasing
Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions
1. Cut the loaf of day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. Toast briefly if too fresh.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or non-stick spray.
3. Layer half of the bread, ham, and cheeses in the dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Pour custard mixture evenly over layered bread and press gently to soak.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let strata come to room temp for 15 minutes.
8. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes until golden and center is set.
9. Cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, skip the ham and add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
Letting the dish rest overnight makes the flavors deeper and texture better.
Use crusty bread like sourdough or French bread for the best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
Keywords: egg strata, cheesy breakfast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, brunch ideas, easy recipe