Savory Breakfast Strata for a Crowd

This Savory Breakfast Strata is the ultimate make-ahead dish, perfect for gatherings or lazy weekend brunches. Layer fluffy bread with rich custard, savory meats, and colorful vegetables, all topped with extra-sharp cheddar. Whether you prefer sausage and sweet peppers or a garden medley, this dish is flexible and flavorful. Let it sit overnight for a fuss-free morning!
ingredients
- 1 quart half and half
- 12 large eggs
- 1 tsp. salt
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 12-14 slices fluffy white bread
- 1 pound meat (sausage, bacon, or seafood)
- 1 pound vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions
- 12 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated
steps
- 1.
Preheat oven to 325°F.
- 2.
If using meat, cook it in a skillet until browned, then set aside.
- 3.
In a large bowl, whisk together half and half, eggs, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 4.
Spray a 13x9 inch baking dish with vegetable cooking spray.
- 5.
Arrange 6 slices of bread in the bottom, cutting pieces as needed to fill gaps.
- 6.
Scatter half of the cooked meat and/or vegetables over the bread, then half of the scallions and half of the cheese.
- 7.
Pour 1 cup of the egg mixture over this layer of bread.
- 8.
Create a second layer with remaining bread, filling in any gaps.
- 9.
Top with the remaining meat and/or vegetables, scallions, and cheese.
- 10.
Slowly pour the remaining egg mixture over the top.
- 11.
Allow to stand for at least 15 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
- 12.
Bake in preheated oven for about 50 minutes until the custard is just set.
- 13.
Let stand for 8-10 minutes before slicing and serving.