Description
Christmas Morning Cheese & Herb Strata is the ultimate festive breakfast dish, perfect for gathering family and friends around the table. With layers of crusty bread soaking in a rich custard of eggs, milk, and cream, this strata is brimming with sharp cheese and aromatic fresh herbs. It’s an effortless yet impressive centerpiece that transforms any holiday brunch into a memorable celebration. Prepare it the night before for a stress-free morning, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you enjoy the festivities.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 loaf crusty bread (about 10–12 oz), torn into pieces
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, chives, thyme), roughly chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth.
- Fold in torn bread pieces and shredded cheese until well-coated.
- Add fresh herbs, salt, and pepper; stir gently to combine.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or let sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 300mg