If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, satisfying breakfast option, look no further than the delightful cheese and bacon strata cake – breakfast casserole! This delicious dish layers fluffy bread, melted cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a wonderful combination that will tantalize your taste buds. Not only does it make for a perfect start to your day, but it also turns breakfast into a celebration.
Moreover, this versatile breakfast casserole can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for weekend brunches or family gatherings. With the rich flavors of the cheese and the savory notes of bacon, your loved ones will be clamoring for seconds. Get ready to elevate your breakfast experience with this scrumptious cheese and bacon strata!
What Makes a Perfect Breakfast Casserole?
A perfect breakfast casserole, such as the delightful Cheese & bacon strata cake, comes down to a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. First, you want a sturdy base, often built from layers of bread, eggs, and your favorite morning meats. The cheese is, of course, a Must-Have; it should be rich and melty. Bacon adds a savory crunch, creating an irresistible combination that wakes up the palate.
Moreover, seasoning plays a critical role; spices should elevate the dish without overpowering it. For an added twist, consider incorporating veggies like spinach or tomatoes for freshness.
Don’t forget versatile breakfast ideas! If you love savory options, check out the bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwiches to pair with your strata. This diversity ensures your brunch table looks inviting and satisfies everyone’s cravings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet morning, a Cheese & bacon strata cake – breakfast casserole! can be the star of any breakfast feast.
Ingredients for Cheese & bacon strata cake – breakfast casserole!
Start your day right with this delicious Cheese & bacon strata cake – breakfast casserole! It’s a hearty dish filled with flavor. Here’s what you need to gather:
- 300g / 10 oz bacon, diced (or substitute with ham)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk (choose between full cream or low fat)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 7 cups of plain bread (preferably slightly stale; I use baguettes), cut into 2 cm / 1 inch cubes
- 2 cups shredded cheese (any variety you prefer)
This comforting breakfast casserole combines crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and soft bread. If you’re interested in other delightful breakfast ideas, check out bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwiches. They’re perfect for a quick meal!
Assemble all these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying a delightful breakfast that pleases any crowd!
How to Prepare Cheese & bacon strata cake – breakfast casserole!
To create a delicious Cheese & bacon strata cake – breakfast casserole, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy; drain excess fat. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Add the stale bread cubes and cooked bacon, ensuring the bread absorbs the egg mixture well. Transfer this mixture to a greased baking dish.
Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Bake for about 30–40 minutes, or until the strata is golden and set. For an added treat, this dish can be served alongside freshly made crispy mozzarella eggs, enhancing your breakfast spread.
For more delectable breakfast ideas, check out this Cheese and Bacon Breakfast Strata from RecipeTin Eats, which offers a delightful twist on the classic. Enjoy your perfect morning with this flavorful casserole!
Serving Suggestions for Your Breakfast Delight:
Elevate your Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake – Breakfast Casserole! with a few delightful serving ideas. This warm dish pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit. Consider a vibrant fruit salad or juicy berries to balance the savory flavors. Serve with a dollop of creamy yogurt, adding a refreshing note. For a hearty brunch, complement it with crispy bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwiches featuring fluffy eggs and layers of crispy bacon.
Additionally, a side of roasted tomatoes or sautéed greens can round out the meal beautifully. For a unique twist, consider presenting your strata with a drizzle of zesty hollandaise sauce. Offering different toppings, like sliced avocados or fresh herbs, can enhance the experience. No matter how you serve it, the Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake promises to be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or cozy brunch at home.
Variations of Cheese & bacon strata cake – breakfast casserole!
You can easily experiment with your Cheese & bacon strata cake – breakfast casserole! to keep breakfasts exciting. For a delightful twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and spinach to boost nutrition and flavor. Additionally, swapping everyday bacon for turkey bacon or even a meat alternative provides a healthier version while maintaining a satisfying taste.
If you love different flavors, try incorporating a mix of cheeses. Cheddar, mozzarella, or goat cheese can add depth to your dish. For a gourmet touch, consider a creamy cheese sauce or even pairing it with an indulgent side like a savory *loaded bacon cheeseburger alfredo pasta* recipe. Not only does this dish stand alone, but it also pairs well at brunch with something refreshing, like a strawberry oatmeal breakfast smoothie.
Ultimately, don’t shy away from making your Cheese & bacon strata cake a unique family favorite!
Storage Tips for Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake – Breakfast Casserole!
To keep your Cheese & bacon strata cake – breakfast casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It can last up to three days in the refrigerator. Alternatively, for longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. This way, you can easily reheat a comforting breakfast option anytime. For a delicious twist, check out my bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwiches!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is a cheese and bacon strata cake?
A cheese and bacon strata cake is a delightful breakfast casserole that layers bread, cheese, and crispy bacon, soaked in an egg mixture and baked to perfection. This dish is not only hearty but also versatile, allowing for various ingredient substitutions to cater to different tastes.
How do you serve a breakfast casserole?
This breakfast casserole can be served warm, sliced into generous portions. Accompany it with fresh fruit or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it ideal for brunch gatherings.
Can you make it ahead of time?
Certainly! One of the best features of the cheese and bacon strata cake is that it can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate overnight, then bake it in the morning to enjoy a fresh, piping-hot breakfast.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you’re looking to switch things up, consider using smoked turkey or vegetarian bacon alternatives. You can even add sautéed vegetables or mushrooms, enhancing the flavor profile without sacrificing texture.
Is there a way to make it lighter?
Yes! To create a lighter version, you can use whole grain bread and low-fat cheese. Additionally, substituting half-and-half for milk and reducing the amount of bacon or cheese can create a delicious and healthier version.
How do I store leftovers?
Any leftover cheese and bacon strata cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions, either cooked or uncooked, for a quick breakfast option later.
For more delicious breakfast ideas, you might enjoy exploring tasty recipes like bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwiches!
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Cheese & bacon strata cake – breakfast casserole! A Must-Try Delight
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheese & Bacon Strata Cake is a delicious and comforting breakfast casserole, perfect for weekends or special occasions. Loaded with crispy bacon and gooey cheese, it’s an easy make-ahead dish that will impress your family and friends.
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) any plain bread (I use baguettes)
cut into 2 cm / 1 inch cubes (preferably slightly stale)
2 cups cheese
shredded
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the bread cubes in a greased baking dish and add the cooked bacon and shredded cheese, mixing well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread, bacon, and cheese, ensuring the bread is evenly soaked. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For best results, use slightly stale bread to help it absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy. You can also customize the cheese type based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 19 g
- Cholesterol: 215 mg
Keywords: Cheese & bacon strata cake, breakfast casserole, strata recipe, brunch recipe, bacon recipe