Can I make it gluten-free?

Sure, make it gluten-free by using any type of gluten-free bread to make this breakfast special available to those who are celiac or have a gluten sensitivity.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the ham or bacon and load your breakfast casserole with more plant proteins!

Is this the same as a Frittata?

They are both egg-based casserole dishes. However, the Italian frittata is simply made with egg, veggies and cheese, while the American Strata comes with a layer of bread and more meat.

Breakfast Strata

Name: Breakfast Strata
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large (12 ounce) loaf French bread (or any plain bread), cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 medium red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cooked ham or bacon, finely chopped; 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese, shredded; 10 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup fresh green onions, finely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Description

Breakfast Strata is a hearty baked casserole dish loaded with bread, eggs, ham, cheese, and veggies that will fill you up and keep you going until lunchtime.

Ingredients

1 large (12 ounce) loaf French bread (or any plain bread), cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cooked ham or bacon, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese, shredded
10 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 cup fresh green onions, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

Grease a 9x13-inch casserole pan with some oil or butter and arrange chopped bread evenly in the pan.
Spread the bell peppers, ham, and cheese evenly over the bread.
In a large mixing bowl, add eggs, milk, mustard, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk well until evenly combined.
Pour the egg custard mixture evenly over the bread. Use a spatula to press down gently to ensure that all the bread pieces are soaked with the egg custard.
Cover the casserole pan with plastic cling wrap and set aside for at least 20 minutes. You can also store it in the fridge overnight until ready to bake, for an easy make ahead breakfast.
Preheat the oven to 375F.
Bake for 55 to 60 minutes until golden brown on the edges and the egg mixture is completely set (or a knife inserted near the center comes out clean).

Notes

How to store: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

How to reheat: Reheat cold breakfast strata in a 300F preheated oven for 10-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy on the edges (depending on how much you are reheating). You can also reheat in a 350F air fryer for 5-10 minutes until warm.

How to freeze: Allow the breakfast strata to cool to room temperature, then wrap the strata in aluminum foil and then place in a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer bag (to prevent freezer burn) for up to 3 months. I recommend slicing the strata first and wrapping individual pieces for easy thawing and reheating. When ready to serve, that overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Breakfast
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American