Sun-dried Tomato Basil Breakfast Casserole (Strata)
Sun-dried tomatoes and basil are the cornerstones of this breakfast casserole. Just toss it all together the night before and bake it for your sunday brunch or weekend get togethers. The leftovers make for a delicious weeknight dinner when paired with a simple salad!
Servings: 6 -8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups diced bread preferably day old
- 1 ½ cups shredded smoked jack cheese*
- 6 eggs
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes drained*
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt + ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Generously spray a 11x8 casserole or 10 inch square dish with cooking spray. Add ½ the bread to the dish, along with ¾ cup of shredded cheese and crumbled sausage or pepperoni (if using) followed by the remaining bread, set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, milk, parmesan, basil, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes and whisk until thoroughly mixed.
- Pour the prepared mixture over the bread. Use a wooden spoon to help push the bread down so it soaks up all the liquid. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours so the bread soaks up the egg mixture.
- Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 375ºF. Bake the casserole, uncovered for 35-42 minutes or until the cheese melts and a toothpick inserted in the casserole comes out without any liquid on it. Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minute before slicing and serving.
Notes
- I like smoked jack cheese or smoked gouda in this casserole but those can be difficult to find sometimes. The smoky flavor really works well with this casserole but mozzarella, provolone or Monterey jack will also work out just fine!
- You can add cooked crumbled sausage or mini pepperonis to this casserole if you want to bulk it up a bit more with protein.
- If your sun-dried tomatoes are whole, consider dicing or slicing them before adding it to the casserole so you get some in each bite.
