Name: Holiday Breakfast Strata
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 8 slices bread (Stale bread works best.); 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or your choice.); 1 cup cooked sausage (Optional.); 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp pepper; 1 tsp mustard powder

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Ah, the holidays! It’s that magical time of year when the air is crisp, and the scent of pine fills our homes. I’ve always believed that the best way to kick off those festive mornings is with a hearty breakfast, and that’s where my holiday breakfast strata comes in. This dish is a warm embrace of flavors, bringing together layers of bread, eggs, and cheese in a way that just screams comfort. I love how it can be prepped the night before, allowing you to sleep in just a little longer before the festivities begin.

Family gatherings wouldn’t be complete without it! Picture this: you wake up to the smell of breakfast wafting through the house, the kids are buzzing with excitement, and everyone gathers around the table, waiting to dive into this glorious strata. It’s perfect for sharing, and trust me, there’s nothing quite like watching everyone dig in with smiles on their faces. This isn’t just a dish; it’s a tradition that brings us all together, making memories with every bite. So grab your favorite bread and let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Ingredients List

Let’s gather the ingredients for our holiday breakfast strata! Each one plays a vital role in creating that cozy, delicious dish we all love. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 slices of bread: Stale bread works best for this dish. It soaks up the egg mixture without becoming mushy, giving you that perfect texture. You can use any kind you like—sourdough, whole wheat, or even a nice buttery brioche!
6 large eggs: These provide the structure and richness to the strata. Make sure they’re fresh for the best flavor!
2 cups of milk: Whole milk is my go-to for creaminess, but you can use whatever you have on hand. This helps create that custardy goodness that holds everything together.
1 cup of shredded cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Gouda or mozzarella would also be delightful.
1 cup of cooked sausage (optional): Add some crumbled breakfast sausage for a heartier dish. It’s not necessary, but it sure does enhance the flavor!
1 tsp of salt: This helps bring all the flavors together. Don’t skip it!
1 tsp of pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a lovely bite that complements the richness of the strata.
1 tsp of mustard powder: This little touch elevates the flavor, adding a subtle zing that makes your strata unforgettable.

Once you’ve gathered these ingredients, you’re ready to create a breakfast that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this holiday breakfast strata! I promise, it’s easier than it sounds, and the results are so worth it. Let’s break it down step by step!

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures even cooking throughout the strata. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a soggy center or burnt edges!

Prepare the Egg Mixture

Next, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and mustard powder. Make sure to really whisk it well until everything is nicely combined and you’ve got a smooth mixture. This step is crucial because it helps the flavors meld together beautifully. If you want a little tip, use a whisk instead of a fork for better results!

Layer the Ingredients

Now it’s time for the fun part—layering! In your baking dish, start with a layer of bread slices, making sure to cover the bottom completely. Then sprinkle half of your shredded cheese on top, followed by a layer of cooked sausage if you’re using it. Repeat this process, adding another layer of bread, the remaining cheese, and sausage. This creates those delicious pockets of flavor throughout the strata!

Combine and Rest

Once you’ve got your layers set, it’s time to pour that lovely egg mixture over the top. Make sure it’s evenly distributed so every bite gets that creamy goodness. Now, here’s an important tip: allow the strata to sit for about 15 minutes. This helps the bread soak up all that egg mixture, making it extra moist and flavorful.

Bake the Strata

Finally, pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the strata is set in the middle and has that gorgeous golden brown color on top. A good test is to gently shake the dish; if it jiggles slightly in the center, it needs a bit more time. But if it’s firm and puffy, you’re all set! Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This holiday breakfast strata isn’t just a delicious dish; it’s packed with benefits that make it a standout choice for your festive mornings. Here’s why you’re going to fall in love with it:

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a hearty breakfast that looks impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it the night before, and let it sit in the fridge overnight. That way, you can simply pop it in the oven in the morning and enjoy a leisurely breakfast with your loved ones!
Customizable: Feel free to get creative! Use different types of bread, cheeses, or add veggies to suit your family’s taste preferences. The possibilities are endless!
Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for holiday gatherings, this strata serves 8 people easily, making it a fantastic option when you have family or friends visiting.
Rich, Comforting Flavor: The combination of eggs, cheese, and savory sausage (if you choose to add it) creates a warm, comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone.
Leftovers (if you have any!): This dish reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftover strata for days, keeping the holiday spirit alive long after the festivities have ended!

Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your holiday breakfast repertoire!

Equipment List

Before we get cooking, let’s make sure you have all the necessary equipment on hand to whip up this holiday breakfast strata! Here’s what you’ll need:

Baking dish: A good-sized baking dish (about 9×13 inches works perfectly) is essential for holding all those delicious layers of bread, eggs, and cheese.
Mixing bowl: You’ll need a mixing bowl to whisk together your egg mixture. A medium bowl should do the trick!

Having the right tools makes the process smoother and ensures your strata turns out just right. Now, let’s get to cooking!

Tips for Success

Let’s make sure your holiday breakfast strata turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some practical tips to keep in mind as you whip up this delicious dish:

Use Stale Bread: Don’t underestimate the power of stale bread! It’s key to achieving that perfect texture. If you don’t have stale bread, you can leave fresh slices out overnight to dry out a bit.
Whisk Thoroughly: When you’re mixing your eggs, milk, and seasonings, make sure to whisk well! This helps incorporate air and ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the strata.
Let It Rest: Don’t skip the resting time after pouring the egg mixture over your layers. This step allows the bread to soak up all that delicious custard, making each bite extra moist and flavorful!
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your strata while it’s baking. Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking a few minutes before the 60-minute mark. You’re looking for a firm center and a golden top!
Get Creative: Feel free to experiment with your ingredients! Add sautéed vegetables, different cheeses, or even herbs for a twist that suits your family’s taste. Just remember to keep the ratios similar for the best results.
Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers (which is rare with such a crowd-pleaser), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to keep that lovely texture intact, or pop it in the microwave for a quick breakfast fix!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a holiday breakfast strata that will impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

Now that you’re ready to indulge in this delicious holiday breakfast strata, you might be curious about its nutritional content. Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect in each serving:

Calories: 300
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 180mg
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Potassium: 250mg
Vitamin A: 500 IU
Calcium: 300mg
Iron: 2mg

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose, but this gives you a solid idea of the hearty goodness packed into each serving. Enjoy guilt-free, knowing you’re treating yourself to a wholesome breakfast that’s perfect for the holidays!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making this holiday breakfast strata? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my answers:

Can I make this holiday breakfast strata ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, I recommend prepping it the night before. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and pop it in the fridge. In the morning, just let it come to room temperature while your oven preheats, then bake it as usual!
What type of bread is best for the strata? Stale bread is key! It soaks up the egg mixture beautifully without turning mushy. Sourdough, whole wheat, or even a rich brioche works wonderfully. If your bread is fresh, just leave it out overnight to dry a bit.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe? Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the quantities so you don’t overwhelm the dish!
What’s the best way to store leftovers? If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick breakfast fix!
How can I tell when the strata is done baking? You’ll know it’s ready when it’s set in the middle and has a lovely golden brown color on top. A gentle shake of the baking dish should show only a slight jiggle in the center. If it jiggles too much, it likely needs a bit more time!

Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident about making your holiday breakfast strata! Enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions. Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes and ideas, check out my Pinterest page!