Create endless variations of this easy and delicious make-ahead egg dish that’s perfect for brunch, dinner and family get-togethers.
MAIN ARTICLE:
Basic Egg Recipes
Breakfast Strata Recipe
4 slices dense white or whole grain bread
4 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano leaves
6 slices Canadian-style bacon, chopped
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (2 ounces)
Place bread in single layer in greased 8-inch square baking dish.
In medium bowl, beat eggs, milk and thyme until blended; pour over bread. Sprinkle with bacon.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or as long as overnight.
Heat oven to 350°F. Remove strata from refrigerator; uncover and let stand while oven heats.
Bake in center of oven for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese. Return to oven and continue baking until puffed, golden and firm in center, about 5 minutes. Yields 4 to 6 servings.
Insider Info on Making Breakfast Strata
Like its cousins the quiche and bread pudding, the strata has endless variations. It can be made with almost any firm bread, enhanced with vegetables, meat and cheese, and flavored any way you like.
As with French toast and bread pudding, the strata is a good use for bread that has become a bit dry.
Substitute: Six strips turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled, can be substituted for the Canadian-style bacon.
