Get ready to transform your breakfast game with the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will have everyone begging for seconds! This Bacon and Caramelized Onion Strada is not just a meal, it's a morning masterpiece that combines crispy bacon, sweet caramelized onions, and perfectly custardy bread in one irresistible dish. Imagine waking up to a breakfast so delicious, it feels like you're dining at a five-star brunch spot right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp and golden brown. Remove bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Using the same skillet with remaining bacon fat, add sliced onions. Cook on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until onions become soft and caramelized, approximately 15-20 minutes. The onions should turn a rich golden brown color.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Cube the bread into 1-inch pieces. Spread bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces and caramelized onions over the bread cubes.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the bread, bacon, and onions. Ensure all bread pieces are moistened.
- Top the mixture with shredded cheese, distributing it evenly across the surface.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from oven and let the strada rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Slice and serve warm, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- • For the most flavorful caramelized onions, cook them slowly on medium-low heat and be patient - good caramelization takes about 15-20 minutes. • Use day-old bread if possible, as slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better and creates a more luxurious texture. • Make sure to drain the bacon on paper towels to prevent the strada from becoming too greasy. • For extra richness, consider using a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and gruyère. • Let the strada rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow it to set properly and make cutting easier. • This dish can be prepared the night before and refrigerated, then baked in the morning for an easy make-ahead breakfast.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 180mg
