Mary Agnes’s Savory Cheese & Bread Bake
📜 Collection: General Archive | ✍️ Attribution: Mary Agnes | 📂 Category: Entrees A classic savory bread and cheese casserole, also known as a strata, featuring layers of buttered bread and grated cheese baked in a rich seasoned custard. This comforting dish makes a wonderful centerpiece for brunch or a hearty side.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Inactive / Chill Time | Yield / Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 40 mins | None | 8 servings |
🔪 Key Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Knife
Ingredients
| Measurements | Ingredients | Prep / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8 slices | Bread | White, sliced |
| 2 c. | Cheese | Grated |
| 4 | Eggs | Slightly beaten |
| 1/3 c. | Butter | Softened |
| 3 c. | Milk | None |
| 1 1/2 t. | Salt | None |
| 1/8 t. | Dry Mustard | None |
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Layer
- Preheat oven to 325°F and grease a baking dish.
- Spread the 8 slices white bread with 1/3 c. butter, then cut each slice into 4 pieces.
- Alternate layers of the prepared bread pieces and 2 c. grated cheese in the baking dish, ensuring the top layer consists of cheese.
Step 2: Mix and Bake
- In a separate bowl, combine 3 c. milk, 4 eggs, 1 1/2 t. salt, and 1/8 t. dry mustard.
- Pour the milk and egg mixture evenly over the layered cheese and bread.
- Bake in the 325°F oven for approximately 40 minutes, until puffed, golden brown, and set in the center.
💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Assemble the casserole a few hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if needed.
Original Recipe Scan
