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Cheese and Vegetable Strata

Cheese and Vegetable Strata

A savory Cheese and Vegetable Strata that combines layers of bread, cheese, and vegetables in a creamy custard, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 10-12 cups French Bread or Sourdough, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8-10 large Eggs, room temperature
  • 3 cups Whole Milk
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère or Swiss Cheese
  • 5 ounces Fresh Spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1.5 cups Bell Peppers, diced
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dry Mustard
  • Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Thyme or Parsley, finely chopped

Method
 

  1. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Cut the bread into uniform cubes and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onions and bell peppers in olive oil until softened.
  4. Add minced garlic and chopped spinach, stirring until spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Layer half of the bread cubes in the baking dish, followed by half of the sautéed vegetables and half of the shredded cheeses. Repeat the layers.
  6. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, pepper, and herbs. Pour over the bread and vegetables.
  7. Press down on the bread cubes to ensure they absorb the liquid. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F. Let the dish sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking.
  9. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes until golden brown and set. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use stale or lightly toasted bread for better texture. Allow for adequate soaking time for the custard to penetrate the bread.