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close-up of wooden spoon dipped in baking dish with cheese strata
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Cheese Strata

Prepare this make-ahead cheese strata for an effortless morning meal and a soon to be favorite "special occasion" breakfast!
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Resting Time 8 hours
Total Time 9 hours 20 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 430kcal
Author Ryan Beck

Ingredients

  • 1 (14-16 oz) loaf french bread (day old)
  • 2 cups prosciutto, diced (optional)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup sweet onion, finely diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 12 large eggs

Instructions

  • Grease a 9x13 inch pan or something similar with nonstick spray. Cube the bread into 1 inch pieces and spread over 9x13 pan. It is important that bread is slightly old or otherwise it will be too soggy. Spread prosciutto on top if using. Set aside.
  • In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  • Add the flour, whisking until smooth. Cook for about 2 minutes before deglazing with the stock and wine. Stir in the salt, pepper and nutmeg and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce to simmer and simmer for 15 minutes or until thickened. Add the cheeses and sour cream and stir until the cheese is melted and smooth.
  • In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until combined. Temper the eggs by slowly adding some of the hot cheese mixture and whisking until incorporated. Then, pour the egg mixture back into the remaining cheese mixture while whisking constantly. Once combined, pour the mixture over the bread.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, but overnight is best.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Notes

  • Make sure your bread is stale and a little crunchy or you will have a soggy strata.
  • You can half this recipe in an 8 or 9-inch baking pan. However the bake time will be shorter, around 25-30 minutes.
  • Don't use pre-shredded cheese. Buy blocks and shred yourself.
  • Allow the strata to cool for a few minutes after baking before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice into neat portions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 430kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 273mg | Sodium: 943mg | Potassium: 256mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g