Bacon, Cheese and Tomato Strata

 

7

cups lightly packed 1-inch cubes French bread (8 oz)

2

cups shredded Cheddar cheese (8 oz)

2

cups chopped roma (plum) tomatoes (6 medium)

6

eggs

1 1/2

cups milk

1

teaspoon Dijon mustard

1

teaspoon dried basil leaves

1/2

teaspoon salt

6

slices bacon

• 1 Spray 13x9-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray. Spread bread in baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with 1 1/2 cups of the cheese; mix lightly with bread. Sprinkle with tomatoes.
• 2 In medium bowl, beat eggs, milk, mustard, basil and salt with fork or wire whisk; pour over bread mixture. Cover tightly and refrigerate at least 2 hours but no longer than 24 hours.
• 3 Heat oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered 40 to 45 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Meanwhile, in 10-inch skillet, cook bacon over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until crisp; drain on paper towel.
• 4 Crumble bacon. Sprinkle bacon and remaining 1/2 cup cheese over strata. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.