Breakfast Strata is a hearty and versatile dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd at brunch or preparing in advance for a stress-free morning meal. This savory bread pudding is made by layering day-old bread, eggs, milk, cheese, and an assortment of flavorful ingredients like sautéed vegetables, cooked bacon, sausage, or ham. As it bakes, the bread soaks up the rich, custardy egg mixture, creating a light and fluffy texture with a deliciously crisp top. Customize it with your favorite mix-ins to make it your own. Serve Breakfast Strata warm, straight from the oven, with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying start to the day.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of day-old French or Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 6-8 cups)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound bacon or sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread and Fillings:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish. Set aside. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
- Mix the Egg Custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, Dijon mustard, and Italian herbs (if using) until well combined.
- Assemble the Strata:
- Layer the cooked bacon or sausage over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Spread the sautéed vegetables over the top. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese evenly over the vegetables. Pour the egg mixture over the top, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread is soaked. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the Strata:
- Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the strata is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the strata cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley. Serve warm.
Breakfast Strata is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any morning gathering. Its layers of bread, eggs, cheese, and savory fillings make it a satisfying and easy option for feeding a crowd, ensuring everyone starts their day with a delicious, homemade meal.
