Strata: The Ultimate Savory Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 large loaf of day-old crusty bread, cut into cubes (about 8 cups)
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 cup diced ham
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, and pepper.
Add the cubed bread to the bowl and mix until the bread is fully coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, so the bread can absorb the egg mixture.
While the bread is soaking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the ham is heated through.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Stir the cooked vegetables and ham, along with the shredded cheese, into the soaked bread mixture. Pour everything into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set. Let the strata cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Mixing bowl - A large bowl to mix and whisk the eggs, milk, and spices.
Whisk - Used for whisking and blending the eggs, milk, and spices together.
Skillet - A large skillet for sautéing the onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ham.
Baking dish - A 9x13 inch baking dish for baking the strata in the oven.
Oven - Preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for baking the strata.
Knife - To cut the loaf of bread into cubes and finely chop the onion.
Cutting board - To place the bread and chop the onion and bell pepper.
Measuring cups - To measure the milk and dry mustard.
Measuring spoons - To measure the salt and pepper.
Spatula - Used for stirring and transferring the strata mixture into the baking dish.

Recipe variations

Vegetarian option: Omit the ham and add sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini for a meat-free version.
Cheese variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack to change the flavor profile.
Herb-infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or parsley to the egg mixture for added freshness and aroma.
Bread alternatives: Instead of using crusty bread, try using croissants, bagels, or even leftover dinner rolls for a different texture and taste.
Customize with additional ingredients: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or smoked salmon for extra protein and flavor.
Spinach and feta: Substitute diced ham with sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired twist.
Spicy option: Add diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the strata a spicy kick.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Recipe overview

This Strata recipe is an ideal choice for a hearty brunch or a casual dinner. Strata, a savory breakfast casserole, is made with day-old bread, eggs, cheese, and a mix of veggies and ham. The bread soaks up the egg mixture overnight and puffs up when baked, giving the dish its unique layered structure. With its satisfying mix of textures and flavors, this strata is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The best part about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to substitute your favorite veggies or swap the ham for cooked sausage or bacon. You can even make it vegetarian by omitting the ham entirely. No matter how you customize it, this strata is a comforting and filling meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and easy-to-make strata. Enjoy!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, you can use different types of bread for this strata recipe. However, it is recommended to use a day-old crusty bread as it holds up well and adds a nice texture to the dish.
Can I substitute any ingredients? Absolutely! You can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, you can substitute the ham with cooked bacon or sausage, or use different types of cheese.
Can I prepare the strata ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the strata ahead of time. After combining all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the plastic wrap and follow the baking instructions.
Can I freeze the leftover strata? Yes, you can freeze leftover strata. Allow it to cool completely, then cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave.
Can I add vegetables to the strata? Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to add more flavor and nutrients to the dish. You can sauté mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, or any other vegetables you like before adding them to the bread mixture.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for whisking together the egg mixture and soaking the bread.
Whisk - Used for whisking together the eggs, milk, and spices.
Skillet - A large skillet for cooking the vegetables and ham.
Knife - For chopping the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
Cutting Board - A surface for safely chopping the vegetables.
9x13 inch Baking Dish - The baking dish used to bake the strata in the oven.
Oven - Used to bake the strata at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Grease or Cooking Spray - To prevent sticking, grease the baking dish before adding the strata mixture.

Origin stories

Strata, a delightful and hearty dish often served at brunch, has roots in both American and Italian culinary traditions. In Italian, 'strata' roughly translates to 'layers', and this dish is aptly named for its layers of bread, cheese, and other ingredients, all held together by an egg-based custard. Interestingly, while strata is often seen as a way to use up leftovers, particularly day-old bread, its origins are far from humble. In fact, the dish first gained popularity in the 20th century among the well-to-do, who served it at elegant brunches and luncheons. Over time, strata has evolved to include a wide variety of ingredients, reflecting the tastes and traditions of diverse regions. So whether you're enjoying a spicy Southwestern strata or a traditional Italian version with fresh tomatoes and basil, you're partaking in a culinary tradition that spans continents and centuries.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.