Cheese & Turkey Bacon Strata Cake – Breakfast Casserole!

Alyssa

Delicious cheese and turkey bacon strata cake—an easy, baked breakfast casserole that's perfect for brunch or any hearty meal.

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300 g turkey bacon diced: This leaner alternative to pork bacon provides all the savory flavor you crave without the extra fat. Turkey bacon adds a delightful smokiness and a hearty texture.
6 large eggs: Eggs are the foundation of this dish providing structure and richness. They bind all the ingredients together, creating a fluffy and custardy texture.
1 1/4 cups milk: Milk adds moisture and a creamy consistency to the egg mixture. You can use whole milk for richness or skim milk for a lighter version.
1/4 tsp salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients balancing the entire dish.
Black pepper to taste: A sprinkle of black pepper adds a subtle kick elevating the overall flavor profile.
7 cups plain bread such as baguettes, cubed: Stale bread works best for this recipe, as it absorbs the egg mixture effectively without becoming mushy. Choose a hearty bread that can stand up to the creamy custard.
2 cups shredded cheese: Cheese is where you can add your personal touch! Cheddar mozzarella, or a blend will create a rich flavor and gooey texture.
Parsley for garnishing optional: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh taste, enhancing the presentation.

Cook the turkey bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, add 300g of diced turkey bacon. Cook until lightly browned and crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the egg mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1 1/4 cups of milk, 1/4 tsp of salt, and black pepper to taste until completely combined.
Combine ingredients: Add 7 cups of cubed bread, 2 cups of shredded cheese, and the cooked turkey bacon to the egg mixture. Gently fold everything together until the bread is well-coated and has soaked up some of the liquid. For best results, let this mixture soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge for a more developed flavor.
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven heats, grease a springform cake tin to prevent sticking.
Assemble the strata: Once the bread has soaked, pour the mixture into the prepared cake tin. Scatter any reserved turkey bacon and cheese over the top for extra flavor and texture. Cover the tin with foil.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard has set.
Rest and serve: Once baked, remove the strata from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting time allows it to firm up slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, slice, and enjoy your delicious creation!