Description
This beloved make-ahead casserole—also known as “wife saver” or strata—is a Christmas morning tradition. With layers of bread, Canadian bacon, melty cheese, and a rich egg custard, it bakes to golden perfection while you enjoy the festivities. Doubling the recipe makes enough for a crowd, and a few added twists take it to a whole new level.
Ingredients
32 slices white bread, crusts removed
32 slices Canadian bacon (or mix with turkey/ham)
32 slices sharp Cheddar or Gruyère cheese
12 large eggs
6 cups whole milk
1 cup melted butter
2 cups crushed cornflakes (or herb stuffing mix)
2 tsp dry mustard
½ tsp hot sauce
4 tsp Worcestershire
1 tsp salt, 1 tsp pepper
½ cup minced onion
½ cup each red & green bell pepper
Twists (Optional):
1 cup sautéed mushrooms
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
1 tsp smoked paprika
Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
Grease two 9×13 pans. Layer half the bread, bacon, cheese, and top with remaining bread.
Whisk eggs, milk, spices, veggies, Worcestershire, and hot sauce. Pour over both pans.
Cover and chill overnight.
In the morning, pour melted butter over the top and sprinkle with cornflakes.
Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until golden and set. Let rest 10 mins before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Nutrition
- Calories: 380 / Serving
- Sugar: 6g / Serving
- Fat: 22g / Serving
- Saturated Fat: 12g / Serving
- Carbohydrates: 25g / Serving
- Protein: 22g / Serving