Easy Cheesy Overnight Italian Strata Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 oz. thinly sliced pancetta (coarsely chopped)
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 tsp. nutmeg
• 8 cups cubed Italian bread (from a 1-pound loaf)
• 2 cups coarsely grated Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
• 3 cups whole milk
• 10 large eggs

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat a large, heavy skillet over medium heat and sauté pancetta until crisp. Remove and set aside. Add the olive oil to the pan and heat for 30 seconds. Add the onions and garlic, then sauté for five minutes. Turn off the heat and set aside.

2. 2

   Spread one-third of the bread cubes in a well-buttered 3-quart baking dish. Top with one-third of the pancetta, one-third of the onion mixture, and one-third of each cheese. Repeat layering twice with the remaining bread, pancetta, onions, and cheese.

3. 3

   Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Pour evenly over the strata, then cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 8 hours or up to one day.

4. 4

   The next day, let it stand at room temperature while preheating the oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.