Strata Recipe
Strata is the ultimate breakfast or brunch dish that combines savory ingredients into a delightful casserole. Perfect for using up leftover bread, this dish is versatile, easy to prepare, and can feed a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or looking for a comforting meal to enjoy with family, this Strata Recipe will surely impress. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This Strata Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly flexible. You can customize it based on what you have on hand, making it a great way to use up day-old bread and leftover vegetables. It’s packed with protein from the eggs and cheese, and the addition of spinach and bell peppers adds a nice touch of flavor and nutrition. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it a go-to for busy mornings or special occasions.
Gather These Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 6 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 10 large eggs
- 3 2/3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon dry mustard
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Large mixing bowl: For combining the egg mixture.
- 9×13 inch baking dish: Ideal for baking the strata.
- Skillet: To sauté the vegetables.
- Whisk: Essential for beating the eggs and mixing the ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables and bread.
From Start to Finish: Strata Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your strata cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed day-old bread with the sautéed vegetables. Toss to mix evenly, ensuring the bread absorbs the flavors.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses over the bread and vegetable mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together, allowing the cheese to distribute throughout the strata.
Step 5: Whisk the Eggs and Milk
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and dry mustard until well combined. This mixture will bind all the ingredients together.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Pour the egg mixture over the bread and vegetable mixture. Gently stir to ensure that all the bread is coated with the egg mixture. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the egg.
Step 7: Bake the Strata
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the strata is puffed and golden brown on top.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the strata from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before slicing and serving.
Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps
- For a vegan version, replace the eggs with a mixture of silken tofu and nutritional yeast.
- Use almond milk or any plant-based milk instead of whole milk.
- Replace the cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives.
- Omit the eggs entirely and add more vegetables for a hearty texture.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
When preparing your strata, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure your bread is truly day-old. Fresh bread can lead to a soggy strata.
- Don’t skip the resting time! Allowing the bread to soak up the egg mixture is key to the perfect texture.
- If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the strata for the last few minutes of baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and vegetables based on what you enjoy or have available.
Best Ways to Store
Leftover strata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked strata, covering it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Troubleshooting Q&A
Why is my strata soggy?
A soggy strata usually results from using fresh bread instead of day-old bread. Be sure to use bread that has dried out a bit to absorb the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
Can I prepare the strata the night before?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the baking step the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What other vegetables can I add to my strata?
You can add a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or even roasted potatoes. Just be sure to sauté any hearty vegetables beforehand for better texture and flavor.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the cheeses for your favorites, such as feta, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. Just be mindful of the flavors you are combining.
Serve with These
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing side.
- Yogurt Parfait – Creamy yogurt layered with granola and berries.
- Coffee or Tea – The perfect beverage to accompany your strata.
- Green Smoothie – A nutritious drink to complement your meal.
Bring It Home
This Strata Recipe is a wonderful dish that brings comfort and joy to any gathering. It’s a fantastic way to showcase the ingredients you love while creating a meal that everyone will savor. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner, this strata is sure to become a family favorite.
Embrace the versatility of this dish, get creative with your ingredients, and watch as it becomes a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Strata Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your strata cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables - In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 3: Prepare the Bread - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed day-old bread with the sautéed vegetables. Toss to mix evenly, ensuring the bread absorbs the flavors.
- Step 4: Add the Cheeses - Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses over the bread and vegetable mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together, allowing the cheese to distribute throughout the strata.
- Step 5: Whisk the Eggs and Milk - In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and dry mustard until well combined. This mixture will bind all the ingredients together.
- Step 6: Combine Everything - Pour the egg mixture over the bread and vegetable mixture. Gently stir to ensure that all the bread is coated with the egg mixture. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the egg.
- Step 7: Bake the Strata - Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the strata is puffed and golden brown on top.
- Step 8: Garnish and Serve - Once baked, remove the strata from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make sure your bread is truly day-old to prevent a soggy strata.
- Don’t skip the resting time; it's crucial for the right texture.
- For a crispier top, broil the strata for the last few minutes of baking.
