Strata Recipe

This Strata is a hearty and comforting breakfast casserole that’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion breakfast. Layers of challah bread, sautéed vegetables, and cheese are soaked in a creamy egg mixture and baked to golden perfection. It’s a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Strata:

• Challah bread: Cut into 1-inch cubes, this rich and slightly sweet bread is perfect for soaking up the egg mixture.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• Onion: Chopped, for flavor and texture.
• Red bell pepper: Chopped, for color, sweetness, and crunch.
• Fresh spinach: Roughly chopped, adds nutrients and a vibrant green color.
• Gruyere cheese: Grated, adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
• Eggs: Large, bind the ingredients together and create a creamy custard.
• Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the egg mixture.
• Salt, black pepper, and ground mustard: For seasoning the egg mixture.

How to Make Strata

Step 1: Preheat and Sauté Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, and cook until softened. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 2: Assemble the Layers

In the prepared baking dish, create a layer of challah bread cubes. Scatter the cooked vegetable mixture and grated Gruyere cheese evenly over the bread.

Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and ground mustard until well combined. Pour the egg mixture over the bread and vegetables, making sure all the bread is covered.

Step 4: Soak and Bake

Press down gently on the bread with a spatula to help it absorb the egg mixture. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the strata from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Strata

• Breakfast or Brunch: This Strata is a perfect addition to any breakfast or brunch spread.
• Brunch Potluck: It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to transport and serve at potlucks or gatherings.
• Holiday Breakfast: This casserole is a hearty and festive option for holiday breakfasts or brunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead:

You can assemble the strata the night before and refrigerate it. This allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive dish. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking.

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use other types of bread, such as brioche, French bread, or even a sturdy sourdough.

Can I add meat to this strata?
Absolutely! Cooked and crumbled bacon, sausage, or diced ham would be delicious additions.

Can I freeze this strata?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it before baking. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly!

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Strata that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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