As the crisp winter air settles in, thoughts of cozy gatherings and festive feasts fill my mind. One of my favorite holiday traditions is preparing an Easy Overnight Christmas Breakfast Strata that captures the spirit of celebration without the stress. This savory casserole layers tangy sourdough bread, velvety eggs, and melted cheese, finished with a delightful hint of sweetness from cherries on top. The best part? You can whip it up the night before and let the oven do all the work while you focus on making memories with loved ones. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser that’s both hearty and nourishing, making it an ideal choice for your holiday brunch. Curious how to create this hassle-free dish that will warm hearts and bellies alike? Let’s dive in! Why is Christmas Breakfast Strata a Must-Try? Ease of Preparation: This recipe allows you to prep the night before, so you can relax and enjoy Christmas morning without any fuss. Savory and Sweet Harmony: The combination of tangy sourdough, creamy eggs, and sweet cherries offers a flavor profile that delights every palate. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Perfect for gatherings, this dish suits both families and friends, ensuring everyone is satisfied and happy. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap ingredients based on personal taste—try spinach in place of chard or add a little bacon for extra richness. You might also enjoy serving it alongside our Banana Oatmeal Pancakes for a delightful brunch spread! Nutritional Benefits: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a nourishing option that sets a positive tone for your day. Try this recipe to make holiday memories that are as delicious as they are warm! Christmas Breakfast Strata Ingredients For the Base Eggs – Provide structure and protein; can substitute with egg substitute for a vegan-friendly option. Sourdough Bread – Adds delightful texture and a slight tang; use whole grain or gluten-free bread for alternatives. Milk – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with almond milk or any preferred milk alternative. For the Filling Chard – Adds color and nutrition; can be replaced with spinach or kale for added versatility. Mushrooms – Contribute umami flavor and texture; any variety of mushrooms works well, or omit for a lighter dish. Onion – Enhances the flavor profile; feel free to omit if sensitive, and consider using dried parsley instead of fresh. For the Topping Cheese – Offers creaminess and depth of flavor; try cheddar, mozzarella, or a non-dairy cheese alternative for a twist. Cherries – Provide a sweet contrast to the savory base; can replace with diced bell peppers for a different flavor or omit entirely. Seasoning Parsley – Brightens the dish and adds freshness; dried parsley works if you don’t have fresh on hand. These ingredients come together to create a show-stopping Christmas Breakfast Strata that is as festive as it is delicious! Enjoy making memories with this delightful dish as your centerpiece. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Breakfast Strata Step 1: Preparation Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Begin by cutting your sourdough bread into cubes, about an inch in size, and evenly layer these cubes at the bottom of the prepared dish, ensuring they cover the entire base. This foundation will soak up all the flavors of the Christmas Breakfast Strata. Step 2: Vegetables In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté chopped mushrooms and chard for about 5-7 minutes, or until they soften and become fragrant. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before layering them on top of the cubed bread in the casserole dish, evenly distributing them for a balanced flavor throughout. Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients In a mixing bowl, whisk together 8 eggs, 2 cups of milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined and frothy. This mixture will create a delicious custard-like filling. Once combined, pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and vegetables, ensuring that every piece is soaked thoroughly for a rich texture in your Christmas Breakfast Strata. Step 4: Top It Off Sprinkle your choice of shredded cheese over the top of the strata, allowing it to create a beautifully melted crust as it bakes. Next, add a handful of cherries or any sweet topping of your choice for a delightful contrast against the savory elements. Spread everything evenly for consistent flavor in each bite. Step 5: Refrigerate Cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it overnight. This chilling time is crucial, as it allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully and blend flavors, making your Christmas Breakfast Strata even more delicious when baked. Step 6: Bake On Christmas morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if not already warm. Remove the cover from the casserole dish and place it in the oven. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly puffed. The Christmas Breakfast Strata should feel set in the center and may have a slight jiggle when shaken gently. What to Serve with Easy Overnight Christmas Breakfast Strata As you gather around for a cozy Christmas morning, consider these delightful additions to elevate your festive breakfast experience. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of vibrant fruits adds a refreshing contrast, brightening the plate with color and natural sweetness. Cinnamon Roll Casserole: Offering gooey sweetness alongside the savory strata, this bake appeals to those seeking a festive touch without extra effort. Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The salty crunch and rich flavor create a satisfying balance to the creamy casserole, making every bite a treat. Herbed Yogurt Dip: A creamy tangy dip made with Greek yogurt and fresh herbs can balance the richness of the dish, providing a light and fresh element. Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly beverage echoes holiday cheer while complementing the meal, offering a festive non-alcoholic toast to the season. Winter Greens Salad: A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette enhances the meal’s freshness, cutting through the richness and adding a crisp texture. Chocolate Chip Muffins: Their sweet indulgence brings a delightful surprise and whimsy, making your Christmas breakfast feel even more celebratory. Pumpkin Spice Coffee: A cozy cup of spiced coffee warms the soul, perfectly pairing with the holiday flavors in your strata. Vegetable-based Quiche: Another brunch classic, this offers an extra dose of heartiness and pairs well with the seasonal flavor of the strata. How to Store and Freeze Christmas Breakfast Strata Fridge: Store any leftover Christmas Breakfast Strata in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the strata tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrosting: When ready to enjoy, thaw the strata in the fridge overnight before reheating to ensure even warming. Reheating: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through, making sure it’s steaming hot in the center. Expert Tips for Christmas Breakfast Strata Chill Before Baking: Let the strata rest overnight in the fridge to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture for even cooking. Check for Doneness: Insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean. If it jiggles too much, bake longer to avoid a soggy Christmas Breakfast Strata. Let It Rest: Allow the baked strata to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving; this extra time enhances flavor melding and makes slicing easier. Adjust Flavor: Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for a festive twist, complementing the savory and sweet elements beautifully. Ingredient Swaps: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients—spinach for chard or cheddar for mozzarella, tailoring it to your family’s preferences for the perfect dish. Make Ahead Options These Easy Overnight Christmas Breakfast Strata are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a stress-free Christmas morning. Simply follow the instructions and layer your bread, vegetables, and toppings as directed, then cover and refrigerate overnight. This chilling process allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For those extra busy days, you can also assemble the strata and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it into the oven, so it bakes evenly. Enjoy a delicious and hassle-free holiday brunch that will impress your family! Christmas Breakfast Strata Customizations Feel free to play around with flavors and ingredients to make this recipe truly your own! Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and a non-dairy cheese alternative for a delicious dairy-free version. Meat Lover’s: Add cooked sausage or bacon for a heartier, protein-packed breakfast that everyone will love. Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the egg mixture for an aromatic twist. Veggie Boost: Swap chard for spinach or kale to boost nutritional value and add more greenery to the dish. Nutty Crunch: Top with slivered almonds or walnuts before baking for an added crunch that complements the creamy strata. Spiced Seasoning: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the egg mixture for a festive flavor that will warm the heart. Sweet & Savory: Replace cherries with diced bell peppers for a savory contrast or omit for a purely savory dish. Brunch Pairing: Consider serving this delightful strata alongside our visit to English Muffin Breakfast for a complete brunch spread that dazzles! Christmas Breakfast Strata Recipe FAQs How do I select the right sourdough bread for my strata? Absolutely! Look for sourdough bread that is slightly stale for optimal results; it will absorb the egg mixture better. If the bread has dark spots or seems overly soft, it may not hold up well during baking. Fresh bread works, but letting it sit out for a few hours can help it dry slightly. What’s the best way to store leftover Christmas Breakfast Strata? Great question! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating individual pieces in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Can I freeze the Christmas Breakfast Strata for later? Yes, you can! To freeze, tightly wrap the cooled strata in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its texture. What can I do if my strata is too soggy after baking? If your Christmas Breakfast Strata turns out soggier than expected, it may be due to excess moisture in your vegetables or not allowing sufficient chilling time. Next time, try sautéing your vegetables a bit longer to remove excess water before layering them in. Additionally, ensure that you let the strata sit overnight in the fridge—this helps meld the flavors and firm it up! Is this recipe safe for people with egg allergies? For those with egg allergies, I recommend using an egg substitute. You can use a commercial egg replacer or even blend 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg instead. This will help bind your strata without the eggs, keeping the dish both tasty and safe! What other ingredients can I add to enhance the flavor? Very! Feel free to get creative—adding cooked sausage or bacon introduces a rich, savory depth. You can also switch up the cheese; incorporating feta or goat cheese can provide a delightful tang! Don’t forget to sprinkle on some fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon for a fragrant holiday twist! Savory Christmas Breakfast Strata to Wow Your Family Easily prepare a delicious Christmas Breakfast Strata that is savory, sweet, and perfect for festive gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsRefrigeration Time 8 hours hrsTotal Time 8 hours hrs 55 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base8 large Eggs Can substitute with egg substitute for a vegan-friendly option.1 loaf Sourdough Bread Use whole grain or gluten-free bread for alternatives.2 cups Milk Substitute with almond milk or any preferred milk alternative.For the Filling2 cups Chard Can be replaced with spinach or kale.1 cup Mushrooms Any variety works well, or omit for a lighter dish.1 medium Onion Feel free to omit if sensitive.For the Topping1 cup Cheese Try cheddar, mozzarella, or a non-dairy cheese alternative.1 cup Cherries Can replace with diced bell peppers or omit.Seasoning1 tablespoon Parsley Dried parsley works if you don’t have fresh. Equipment casserole dishskilletmixing bowl Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. Cut sourdough bread into cubes and layer in the bottom of the dish.In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped mushrooms and chard for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Cool slightly, then layer on bread in the casserole dish.In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until combined. Pour egg mixture over the layered bread and vegetables.Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and add cherries or any sweet topping of your choice.Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture.On Christmas morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove cover and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesThis Christmas Breakfast Strata is a delicious centerpiece for holiday brunches that can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
