This Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata is the ultimate comfort breakfast! With layers of crusty bread, crispy bacon, melty cheddar, and a rich egg mixture, it’s the kind of dish that turns any morning into a special occasion.
It’s basically a breakfast casserole that checks all the boxes—hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. I love baking this on slow Sunday mornings when everyone’s craving something warm and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon brings bold flavor and crisp texture. You can use turkey bacon or a plant-based version if you prefer—just note they may be less crispy. I always go with classic bacon for the best flavor.
Day-old Bread: Sourdough or French bread works great because it soaks up the egg mixture without getting soggy. No sourdough? Use any sturdy, slightly stale bread like ciabatta or whole wheat.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients. You can use frozen spinach too—just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture. Kale is also a great swap if you want something heartier.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts beautifully and adds sharp flavor. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or sharp white cheddar for added depth.
Dijon Mustard: A little goes a long way to boost flavor. Not a fan? You can use yellow mustard for a milder taste or skip it altogether.
How Do I Perfectly Layer My Strata?
Good layering ensures the strata cooks evenly and tastes great in every bite. Here’s what to do:
- Start with cubed bread spread evenly across the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Layer half the cheese, spinach, and bacon over the bread.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly across everything, pressing gently so the bread absorbs it.
- Top with the remaining cheese—it’ll bake into a golden, cheesy crust.
Let it rest for 20–30 minutes (or overnight) before baking. This step is key to a soft, rich texture throughout.
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Breakfast Strata
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 5 cups day-old bread, cubed (sourdough or French bread recommended)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
Seasonings & Extras:
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Fresh chopped herbs (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Bacon:
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble into bite-sized pieces once cooled.
3. Sauté the Spinach:
In the same skillet (with a little bacon fat left), sauté chopped spinach for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Make the Egg Mixture:
Whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large bowl until fully combined.
5. Layer the Ingredients:
Spread cubed bread in the baking dish. Top with half the cheddar cheese, then the sautéed spinach and crumbled bacon.
6. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything. Press the bread down gently so it absorbs the liquid.
7. Add Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and all of the Parmesan cheese over the top for a gooey, golden finish.
8. Let It Sit:
Cover the dish with foil and let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes. This helps the bread soak up the custard mixture for a soft interior.
9. Bake:
Bake covered for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake another 15–20 minutes until golden brown and fully set in the center.
10. Cool and Serve:
Let the strata cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm!
Can I Use Other Types of Bread?
Yes! Any sturdy, slightly stale bread will work—whole wheat, rye, ciabatta, or even leftover bagels. Just avoid soft sandwich bread as it can get too mushy.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely. Skip the bacon and use sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini instead. A sprinkle of smoked paprika adds that same smoky vibe without the meat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble it the night before and refrigerate covered. In the morning, bake straight from the fridge—just add 5–10 extra minutes to the bake time.
