Christmas Morning Strata

This one is for the girls

and guys too on Christmas morning...eat up!

This recipe goes out to my good friend Claudia down in Orlando FL. We have many times talked about family traditions and how especially this time of year, carrying on these customs are so important. Sorry girl, the photo does nothing for family values but it's meant for fun - a payback from previous a post for men. Claudia's web site is full of great recipes and many feature warm stories of family memories. Take a moment to look her up at What's Cookin' Italian Style Cuisine - you won't be disappointed. This recipe is from my mothers recipe box handwritten on a worn index card and is also in my cookbook. She would have liked the photo!

It's an easy make-ahead breakfast in one dish – but not just for Christmas. You can use any day old bread but I like crusty French and by toasting it, the bread just seems to work better. Use any sausage - country style bulk sausage works well too and I have used smoked and Italian links diced really fine for another added flavor.

Christmas Morning Strata

French bread or sourdough -sliced 1-inch thick
6 bacon strips -cooked and chopped
1 cup cubed cooked ham
1/2 cup diced or grated cooked Conecuh sausage
1/2 cup shredded cheese -mild cheddar or four blends type
1 cup chopped green onion
6 large eggs -beaten
2 cups milk
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dry mustard

Slightly toast the bread. In a greased 13x9-inch casserole dish place bread slices completely covering bottom of dish. Sprinkle cooked meats, cheese and onions over bread. Combine eggs, milk and seasonings mixing well and pour into dish. Cover and refrigerate over night. Place in a preheated 350 degree oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes until center has set. Add salt & pepper at the table as generally the meats are seasoned.

Great served alone or with country grits, sweet rolls and fresh fruit. Buy ready cooked meats to speed up prep time.
Note: Conecuh sausage is an Alabama favorite and they ship direct.