Savory Christmas Croissant Strata

 

I saw this recipe on Instagram by Diane Morrisey, who I absolutely love, and knew right away that it would make the perfect Christmas morning breakfast / brunch.  This strata is both sweet and savory so you could serve it any time of day really.  You should prep the strata the night before so that the croissants can soak up the goodness!

Ingredients:

• 6-7 store-bought large croissants, cut into cubes
  
• 16 oz package of thick cut bacon, cooked and chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 8 eggs
• 3 cups milk (I use whole milk)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (you can substitute swiss)
• 2 tbsp. chopped chives
• 2 tsp chopped thyme (or Oregano)
• 1/4 tsp cayenne
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• salt
• pepper

Preparation:

• Preheat oven to 400.  Spread croissant cubes on 1-2 sheet pans and toast in the oven for about 6 minutes.
• Spray a 9x13 baking dish.
• Sauté onions in a little oil or some of the fat from the bacon until soft.
• In a large bowl, combine eggs, milk, cream, 3/4 cup of each cheese, chives, thyme, and seasonings.  Mix together well.
• Spread out toasted croissant cubes into baking dish evenly.  Top with onions and bacon.
• Pour egg mixture over  top and press down on the croissants so that everything is coated in the liquid.  
• Cover and refrigerate overnight.

To cook:

• Top with remaining 1/4 cup of each cheese.  Bake at 350 for 1 hour or until center is set.
• Let cool about 5-10 minutes and cut into square portions.