Bacon and Egg Strata

The only thing that could beat bacon and eggs for breakfast is a casserole full of bacon and eggs mixed with Irish cheese. This easy bake is sure to wake up your taste buds – bubbly melted cheese is enough to keep anyone from sleeping in.

Ingredients:
8 heaping cups 3/4-inch cubes rustic bread
1/4 cup Irish Butter, plus extra for buttering dish
1 1/2 cups chopped onion
1 cup 1/2-inch cubes red bell pepper
8 strips bacon, cooked crisp and coarsely crumbled
2 cup 1/2-inch cubes Cheese
3 cups half and half
2 teaspoons dry mustard
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
9 eggs, beaten

Method:
1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Place bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes to lightly toast.
2. Meanwhile, in a medium skillet melt butter. Add onion and sauté over medium heat for 10 minutes to soften.
3. Butter a 13 X 9-inch baking dish and place half the bread cubes in the dish.
4. Top with half the onion, bell pepper, bacon and cheese.
5. Repeat layers. Beat together remaining ingredients and pour over bread into dish.
6. Press bread down lightly with a spoon or spatula to coat with egg mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
7. Remove from refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until center is set.

Source: Kerrygold