Print

Tomato Basil Breakfast Strata: Make-Ahead Brunch 1

Tomato Basil Breakfast Strata

This Tomato Basil Breakfast Strata is the perfect make-ahead brunch dish. It’s packed with fresh flavors and is sure to impress your guests or make your weekend mornings extra special. Prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning for a stress-free meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 loaf (1 pound) Italian or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook until they just begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil.
  3. Spread the bread cubes evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  4. Top the bread cubes with the onion and tomato mixture.
  5. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
  6. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and cheese. Press down gently to ensure the bread is soaked.
  7. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  9. Bake the strata uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
  10. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can use half-and-half instead of milk.
  • Add in some cooked sausage or bacon for a heartier breakfast.
  • If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use 2 tablespoons of dried basil, added with the onions.

Nutrition