Bacon, Cheddar and Spinach Strata

Recipe View 5 mins Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease the bottom and sides of a 9x13-inch baking dish with bacon grease. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Soak the Bread: In a large mixing bowl, place the cubed bread. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Whisk the Custard: In a separate mixing bowl, crack the eggs. Season with salt, pepper, cayenne, and nutmeg. Add the heavy cream and whisk thoroughly until well combined. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 15 mins Combine & Absorb: Pour the egg/cream mixture over the bread cubes. Mix gently to ensure all the bread is evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. (15 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins Layer the Strata: Transfer half of the soaked bread mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly over the bottom and press down slightly. Top with half of the shredded cheddar cheese, followed by an even layer of cooked bacon pieces. Place the wilted spinach over the bacon, then top with half of the remaining cheddar cheese. (10 minutes)

Recipe View 1 hrs Finish & Rest: Spread the remaining soaked bread cubes evenly over the spinach and cheese, pressing down slightly. Sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese. Cover the dish and let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to further absorb the custard. (60 minutes)

Recipe View 45 mins Bake: Bake the strata in the preheated oven until set, approximately 45 minutes. The top should be golden brown and the custard set. (45 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Broil (Optional): For an extra touch of browning, broil the strata for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins Rest & Serve: Let the strata rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. (10 minutes)