How to make Strata – the Breakfast Casserole.

A strata is a savory breakfast casserole that’s perfect for brunch. It’s made with bread, eggs, cheese, and other ingredients, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite flavors. We also call it a bread casserole too but it just doesn’t sound as appetizing. Here’s a recipe for a delicious and simple strata that’s sure to be a hit on Mother’s Day.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread, sliced and cubed (about 8 cups)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups of milk
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 cup of grated cheese (cheddar, Gruyere, or a blend)
• 1 cup of cooked breakfast sausage (optional)
• 1 cup of sautéed vegetables (mushrooms, onions, spinach, or bell peppers)
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or basil)

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cut the bread into cubes and spread them evenly in the baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir in the grated cheese, cooked sausage, and sautéed vegetables. Mix well.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Use a spatula to press down on the bread, making sure it’s fully submerged in the egg mixture.
6. Cover the dish with foil and let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator. This will allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture and become fully flavored.
7. When you’re ready to bake the strata, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
8. Bake the strata, uncovered, for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
9. Let the strata cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with a side of fruit salad or greens.

Tips:

• You can use any type of bread for this recipe, such as sourdough, whole wheat, or Italian. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the egg mixture.
• You can customize the strata with your favorite ingredients, such as bacon, ham, roasted vegetables, or different types of cheese.
• If you’re short on time, you can skip the overnight refrigeration and bake the strata right away. Just make sure to let it sit for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Leftover strata can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

In conclusion, a strata is a delicious and easy breakfast casserole that’s perfect for Mother’s Day brunch. This recipe combines bread, eggs, cheese, and other ingredients for a savory and satisfying dish that’s sure to please. You can customize it with your favorite flavors and enjoy it with your loved ones.