Description
This Homemade Egg and Cheese Strata is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast idea—perfect for busy mornings, holidays, or weekend brunch with family. A blend of day-old bread, fluffy eggs, savory cheese, and your choice of ham or vegetables creates a comforting, custard-like bake that’s crisp on top and soft inside. Whether you’re looking for an easy recipe, food ideas to feed a crowd, or quick breakfast prep, this easy dinner-to-breakfast strata ticks all the boxes.
Ingredients
10 cups cubed day-old French or sourdough bread
8 large eggs
2 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half
2 cups shredded cheddar, Gruyere, or Swiss cheese
1 cup cooked diced ham or sausage (optional)
½ cup diced onion or green onion
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
1. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. Toast at 350°F for 10 minutes if desired for extra texture.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until fully blended.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer in half the bread, half the cheese, onions, and ham. Repeat layers.
4. Pour egg mixture evenly over everything. Press gently to soak.
5. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
6. Bake at 350°F uncovered for 45–55 minutes until puffed and golden. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use day-old, crusty bread so the custard doesn’t get soggy.
Always chill the strata overnight to absorb flavor and ensure an even bake.
Let it rest before slicing to avoid messy servings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (⅛ pan)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
Keywords: quick breakfast, easy dinner, healthy snack, breakfast ideas, food ideas, easy recipe