Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Look no further! Strata, a versatile and flavorful dish, is here to shake things up. This layered masterpiece is made by alternating ingredients like bread, vegetables, cheese, and sometimes even meat or fruit, and then baking until golden brown. The result is a satisfyingly savory or sweet brunch option that’s perfect for any occasion.
In this article, we’ll dive into the wonderful world of strata with 20 mouthwatering recipes to get you started. From classic combinations like cheese and herbs to more adventurous pairings like sun-dried tomatoes and basil, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy morning person or an afternoon brunch enthusiast, these strata recipes are sure to become a new favorite.
Classic Cheese and Herb Strata
A rich and satisfying side dish or main course, this strata is perfect for any occasion. With its gooey cheese, fresh herbs, and crispy bread, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of stale bread (white or whole wheat), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and chives)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, grated cheese, melted butter, and chopped herbs.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top and bubbly in the center.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spinach and Feta Breakfast Strata
A Mediterranean-inspired breakfast strata that combines the creaminess of feta cheese with the nutty flavor of spinach, perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the spinach leaves with a pinch of salt until wilted.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Layer half of the baguette cubes, followed by the sautéed spinach, feta cheese, and cheddar cheese.
6. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining bread cubes.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the top layer of bread.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sausage and Cheddar Strata
This savory strata is a perfect way to start your day, packed with sausage, cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs. It’s easy to prepare the night before and bakes to a golden, puffed perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine bread, cheese, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked sausage, eggs, and heavy cream or half-and-half to the bread mixture; stir until well combined.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ham and Swiss Cheese Strata
A classic breakfast or brunch dish that’s perfect for a crowd. This strata is packed with ham, Swiss cheese, and fresh herbs, all wrapped up in a buttery bread pudding.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups diced cooked ham
– 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, melted butter, ham, and Swiss cheese. Toss until the bread is evenly coated.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle parsley over the top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegetable Medley Strata
This Vegetable Medley Strata is a flavorful and textured breakfast or brunch dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized vegetables with the savory goodness of eggs and cheese. Perfect for a crowd, this strata is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, onions)
– 1 cup cubed bread
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize the mixed vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread cubes.
5. Add the caramelized vegetables, then top with the remaining bread cubes.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, followed by the grated cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Strata
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Strata: A flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines the brightness of fresh basil with the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until bread is evenly coated.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bacon and Gruyere Strata
Bacon and Gruyère Strata Recipe
Summary:
This strata recipe combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and melted Gruyère cheese with fresh bread for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until caramelized. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, cooked bacon, and Gruyère cheese.
5. Pour in the melted butter and toss everything together until the bread is evenly coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Strata
This Mushroom and Thyme Strata is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for brunch or dinner. Layers of buttery bread, sautéed mushrooms, and fragrant thyme create a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and mushrooms in butter until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and melted butter. Add thyme and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of bread cubes. Top with mushroom mixture, then repeat layers one more time.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of second layer of bread.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Broccoli and Cheddar Strata
This strata recipe combines the flavors of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and bread for a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, broccoli, and cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture; toss until bread is evenly coated.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Strata
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Strata Recipe
A sweet and savory strata that combines the richness of caramelized onions with the creaminess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 30 minutes).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Arrange half of the baguette cubes in the prepared baking dish.
6. Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread, followed by half of the caramelized onions and half of the goat cheese.
7. Repeat layers, ending with the remaining bread on top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Roasted Red Pepper and Mozzarella Strata
A sweet and savory breakfast or brunch dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This strata is a delicious combination of roasted red peppers, creamy mozzarella cheese, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and sliced
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, roasted red peppers, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the bread mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto and Parmesan Strata
This strata is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast or brunch dish. The combination of pesto, Parmesan cheese, and bread creates a rich and satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 slices of bread (white or whole wheat), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture and stir until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and pesto until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the strata is puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Artichoke and Spinach Strata
A savory breakfast or brunch option that combines the earthy flavors of artichoke and spinach with creamy eggs and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 6 slices white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cheese, milk, and a pinch of salt.
3. Add chopped artichoke hearts and spinach leaves to the egg mixture; stir until well combined.
4. Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Arrange half of the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, followed by the remaining bread cubes.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Sweet Potato and Sage Strata
This sweet potato and sage strata is a delightful twist on traditional breakfast casseroles. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, caramelized onions, and crispy sage leaves will elevate your brunch game.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 6-8 fresh sage leaves
– 4 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a separate pan, caramelize the onions over medium heat for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Layer bread, roasted sweet potatoes, caramelized onions, and crispy sage leaves in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour in heavy cream and melted butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the strata is puffed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chorizo and Pepper Jack Strata
This spicy strata is perfect for a special occasion or a lazy Sunday morning. The combination of chorizo, pepper jack cheese, and sweet peppers creates a flavorful and satisfying breakfast or brunch dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
– 1 cup cooked chorizo, crumbled
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, Pepper Jack cheese, chorizo, onion, and bell peppers.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour egg mixture over bread mixture; let it sit for 10 minutes to allow bread to absorb liquid.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Zucchini and Ricotta Strata
Strata is a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for brunch or breakfast. This Zucchini and Ricotta Strata recipe combines the flavors of zucchini, ricotta cheese, and fresh herbs for a delightful morning treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic, and basil until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of cooked zucchini.
5. Pour half of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini.
6. Repeat layers, ending with the remaining ricotta mixture.
7. Top with beaten eggs and shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tomato and Basil Strata
This classic strata recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, all wrapped up in a crispy bread package. Perfect for brunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture; let it sit for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple and Brie Strata
This strata recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the creaminess of brie cheese, perfect for a special brunch or breakfast gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 large apple, peeled and sliced
– 8 oz brie cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread slices.
3. Top with sliced apples, crumbled brie cheese, and sugar.
4. Dot with melted butter.
5. Repeat layers: remaining bread, apple, brie, and sugar.
6. Whisk eggs in a bowl; pour over strata.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Blueberry and Cream Cheese Strata
This sweet strata is a delightful combination of fresh blueberries, creamy cream cheese, and crusty bread. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (12-14 cups), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the softened cream cheese and mix until smooth.
4. Arrange half of the bread cubes in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread, followed by half of the blueberries.
6. Repeat the layers: bread, egg mixture, and blueberries.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate and Hazelnut Strata
Elevate your breakfast game with this decadent strata featuring the perfect balance of rich chocolate, crunchy hazelnuts, and fluffy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (about 12-15 slices), torn into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
3. Add torn bread pieces to the mixture and let it sit for 5-7 minutes or until bread is fully saturated.
4. Fold in chocolate chips and hazelnuts into the bread mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle with salt.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until top is golden brown and strata is puffed.
7. Remove from oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your brunch game with these delicious strata recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes offers a variety of flavor combinations and ingredients, from classic cheese and herbs to sweet potato and sage. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, there’s a strata recipe here for everyone. From breakfast classics like sausage and cheddar to more adventurous options like caramelized onion and goat cheese, these stratas are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
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