TOMATO AND BACON STRATA

Ingredients

• 8 cups French bread cubes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 1/2 cups diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (2%)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
• 1/2 tsp basil, crumbled
• 1/4 tsp thyme, crumbled

Directions

1. Place half of bread cubes in a greased shallow 3 quart casserole dish. Sprinkle with half each of cheese, bacon, tomatoes and onions. Repeat layers with remaining bread, cheese, bacon, tomatoes and onions.
2. Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, basil and thyme. Pour mixture evenly over casserole. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
3. Remove from refrigerator and let stand for 20 - 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F.
4. Bake, uncovered, until a knife inserted in centre comes out clean, about 55 - 60 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.