If you’ve ever dreamed of a cozy, bubbling breakfast that doubles as the highlight of any brunch gathering, this Strata Recipe is your solution. Imagine cubes of crusty bread soaked in a savory custard, layered with two types of melty cheese, sautéed onions, and your choice of sausage or ham. Every golden bite delivers a balance of pillowy softness and crisp edges, making it the star of any morning table. Whether you’re prepping ahead for a weekend crowd or craving something hearty and satisfying, this dish transforms humble ingredients into comfort food magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of everyday ingredients, each playing a crucial role in flavor and texture, this Strata Recipe brings out the best in simple staples. Don’t underestimate how much these basics can shine when combined thoughtfully!
- Day-old bread (6 cups, cubed): Using slightly stale French or sourdough bread ensures the cubes soak up the egg mixture perfectly for a custardy, not soggy, finish.
- Olive oil or butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps the onions become deliciously golden and fragrant.
- Small onion (diced): Sautéed onion creates a sweet, savory depth and complements the bold flavors of the cheese and meats.
- Cooked sausage or diced ham (1 cup): This brings savory heartiness; feel free to choose your favorite or go half-and-half!
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Cheddar melts beautifully and adds sharpness to the dish.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): For that irresistible stretch and mild, creamy taste alongside the cheddar.
- Large eggs (6): Eggs are the backbone that binds all the elements into a classic breakfast bake.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Opt for whole milk for the most sumptuous, creamy custard texture.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to balance the dish and enhance all the other flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth without overpowering the rest of the ingredients.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a subtle punch and extra dimension with each bite.
- Dried thyme or Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Either option adds herby complexity and a touch of earthiness.
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the final dish with color and a fresh pop of flavor.
How to Make Strata Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Strata Recipe bakes evenly from the very first minute. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or oil, so you’ll have no trouble serving up those perfect squares later.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes, until they’re soft and just turning golden. Letting the onions mellow out like this means they’ll be sweet and tender throughout the casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Custard Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and your choice of dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Whisk until well combined and slightly frothy; this mixture is the flavorful base that brings the entire Strata Recipe together.
Step 4: Combine Everything Together
Add your cubed bread to the egg mixture, followed by the sautéed onions, cooked sausage or ham, and both shredded cheeses. Gently stir everything together so that every piece of bread is moistened and each bite will be loaded with hearty fillings and gooey cheese.
Step 5: Assemble and Soak
Pour this glorious mixture into your greased baking dish and press down lightly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature so the bread can soak up all those tasty liquids. If you prefer, you can cover and refrigerate it overnight for a make-ahead marvel.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the center is set (a little wobble is just right). Your kitchen will smell incredible! After baking, let the strata rest for 5 to 10 minutes—this makes for neater slices and more concentrated flavor.
How to Serve Strata Recipe
Garnishes
A flourish of freshly chopped parsley not only looks lovely but also adds a refreshing lift to each square of your Strata Recipe. If you’re feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes right before serving is delightful.
Side Dishes
This savory bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, juicy fruit platter, or a side of roasted potatoes. Coffee and fresh orange juice are classic drinks to round out your brunch table, but a mimosa or two never hurts either!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual squares on a bed of greens, or try using a biscuit cutter to create elegant rounds for a buffet. You can even bake the Strata Recipe in ramekins for single-serving brunches or a pretty holiday spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap cooled leftovers tightly with foil or transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in your fridge for up to 3 days, making it a lifesaver for busy mornings or late-night cravings. Just be sure to let the strata come to room temperature before storing for best texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, cut the Strata Recipe into portions, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, place the wrapped pieces in a zip-top bag or airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a 325°F (165°C) oven, covered loosely with foil, until warmed through—about 15 to 20 minutes. For a quick microwave option, use 30-second bursts until hot, but the oven will best preserve the texture. If reheating from frozen, allow to thaw first for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this Strata Recipe?
Absolutely! While French or sourdough holds up the best, you can experiment with multigrain, challah, or whatever you have on hand. Just make sure it’s at least a day old so it can soak up all the delicious custard.
How do I make a vegetarian version?
Simply omit the sausage or ham and load your Strata Recipe with extras like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or even roasted butternut squash for a veggie-packed twist.
Can this dish be prepped the night before?
Yes—one of the greatest joys of strata is its make-ahead magic! Cover and refrigerate the filled baking dish overnight, then bake fresh in the morning for stress-free hosting.
What is the best cheese for strata?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic for their flavor and meltability, but feel free to swap in Gruyère, Swiss, or even a pepper jack for a bit more kick and variety in your Strata Recipe.
How will I know when my strata is fully cooked?
The top should be beautifully golden and set, and a knife inserted in the center will come out clean (or with just a hint of custard). If the top browns too fast, loosely tent with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Final Thoughts
This Strata Recipe is the kind of dish you’ll find yourself craving on lazy Saturdays, holiday mornings, and even those evenings when breakfast-for-dinner sounds perfect. Trust me—give it a try, get creative with your favorite add-ins, and make it your own! Your next brunch will thank you.
Print
Strata Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This delicious Strata recipe is a perfect make-ahead dish for breakfast or brunch. Layers of bread, sausage or ham, and cheese baked in a savory custard mixture, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Bread:
6 cups cubed day-old bread (French or sourdough recommended)
Seasoning:
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter, 1 small onion (diced), 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Proteins:
1 cup cooked sausage or diced ham
Cheese:
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Custard:
6 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk
Garnish:
chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sauté Onion: In a skillet, sauté the diced onion in olive oil or butter until soft. Set aside.
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Add bread, sausage/ham, onion, and cheeses. Mix gently.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer mixture to the baking dish, press down, let it rest, then bake for 45–50 minutes until set.
- Rest and Serve: Let it rest before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Perfect for make-ahead breakfast or brunch.
- Try vegetarian versions with spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Day-old or slightly dried bread works best.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
