When it comes to planning a meal, many of us get stuck in a rut. We default to the same old dishes, never venturing out of our comfort zones. But what if you could create delicious meals with minimal fuss and maximum flavor? Enter the strata, a versatile and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
From classic breakfast gatherings to elegant dinner parties, strata is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. This savory bread pudding is made by layering ingredients like vegetables, cheese, meat, and spices between sheets of bread, then baking until golden brown. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different strata recipes, each with its own unique flavor profile and perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a simple breakfast solution or a show-stopping dinner centerpiece, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Cheese and Herb Strata
Classic Cheese and Herb Strata: A simple yet elegant dish perfect for brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
3. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place half of it in the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the cheddar and Parmesan cheese evenly over the bread, followed by the parsley and chives.
5. Top with the remaining bread cubes.
6. Drizzle the melted butter over the top layer of bread.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Feta Strata
This Spinach and Feta Strata is a flavorful and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch dish that combines the richness of feta cheese with the earthy taste of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the spinach with 1 tablespoon olive oil until wilted.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Arrange bread slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Add the cooked spinach, then crumbled feta cheese on top of the bread.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach and feta.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sausage and Mushroom Strata
This savory strata is perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch, featuring juicy sausage and earthy mushrooms in a rich egg custard.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 separate skillet, sauté mushrooms in butter until softened and fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cheese, and cream. Add cooked sausage and mushrooms.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Strata
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Strata: A Fresh Twist on Bruschetta
This Italian-inspired breakfast or brunch dish is a flavorful twist on traditional bruschetta, featuring sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil in a crispy, golden-brown strata.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bread (Italian or French baguette work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place half of it in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, followed by the remaining bread cubes.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Swiss Strata
This recipe is a classic breakfast strata that combines the savory flavors of ham and Swiss cheese with the convenience of a one-dish meal. Perfect for a weekend brunch or holiday morning, this strata is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced ham
– 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread cubes.
3. Sprinkle with half of the ham, cheese, and parsley; season with salt and pepper.
4. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of bread on top.
5. Beat eggs in a bowl and pour over the strata.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Strata
A delicious and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the broccoli florets in a little bit of oil until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of bread cubes.
5. Top with a layer of broccoli, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Pour the melted butter over the cheese layer.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Strata
This savory strata is perfect for a weekend brunch or breakfast gathering. The combination of sweet caramelized onions, sharp Gruyère cheese, and flaky bread will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and a pinch of salt.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of bread cubes.
5. Top with a layer of caramelized onions, followed by a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese.
6. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of bread on top.
7. Pour the cream mixture over the bread and let it soak for 10 minutes.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bacon and Egg Strata
A savory breakfast or brunch option that’s perfect for any occasion, this Bacon and Egg Strata is a layered delight of crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cups of bread (white or whole wheat), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until translucent.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers of bread, sautéed onion, cooked bacon, and shredded cheese, ending with a layer of bread on top.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, making sure to cover all surfaces.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the eggs are set and the bread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Strata
A sweet and savory breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of roasted red peppers and creamy goat cheese with crispy bread and fresh herbs. This strata is perfect for a special occasion or a lazy Sunday morning.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted (see note)
– 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, roasted red peppers, goat cheese, parsley, and scallions.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour over the bread mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vegetable Medley Strata
A delicious and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch dish that combines the flavors of sautéed vegetables, eggs, and cheese. This strata is perfect for a crowd or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, onions)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 4 eggs
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Sauté the mixed vegetables, onion, and garlic in olive oil until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Arrange half of the bread slices in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Add the sautéed vegetables, followed by half of the egg mixture and half of the cheese.
6. Repeat the layers: bread, vegetables, eggs, and cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto and Mozzarella Strata
Elevate your brunch game with this creamy, cheesy strata featuring pesto and mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add bread cubes, olive oil, and pesto to the bowl. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Create a layer of bread mixture in the prepared dish.
6. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat steps 5-6 two more times, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until eggs are set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chorizo and Pepper Jack Strata
Start your day off right with this savory strata, packed with spicy chorizo sausage and creamy pepper jack cheese. This easy-to-make breakfast or brunch dish is perfect for a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 cup grated Pepper Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook Chorizo sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
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, create a layer of bread cubes. Top with cooked Chorizo, followed by half of the egg mixture and half of the Pepper Jack cheese.
5. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Artichoke and Parmesan Strata
Elevate your brunch game with this creamy, savory strata featuring artichoke hearts and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13-inch baking dish
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped artichoke hearts (canned or marinated)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat), cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, artichoke hearts, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple and Brie Strata
This Apple and Brie Strata is a perfect breakfast or brunch recipe that combines the sweetness of apples with the creaminess of brie cheese. This easy-to-make strata is perfect for a special occasion or a quick weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2-3 apples, peeled and diced
– 8 oz Brie cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and apples in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Add bread cubes, Brie cheese, and apple mixture to the egg mixture; stir until combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish; dot with heavy cream.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Blueberry and Cream Cheese Strata
A sweet and savory breakfast or brunch dish that combines the flavors of blueberries, cream cheese, and toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add the blueberries and stir gently to combine.
4. Arrange half of the bread cubes in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the bread, followed by the remaining bread cubes.
6. Dot the top with melted butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Strata
A comforting autumnal dish that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for a cozy brunch or breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed pumpkin bread (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin bread cubes, chopped sage, and grated cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Pour the cream mixture over the bread mixture, ensuring all bread is moistened.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the strata is puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Kale Strata
A delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of kale, all wrapped up in a crispy strata. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté sweet potatoes with salt and pepper until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, cheese, and cream.
4. Assemble strata by layering cooked sweet potatoes, kale, and bread in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour egg mixture over the layers.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Dill Strata
This Smoked Salmon and Dill Strata is a flavorful and visually appealing dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a quick weekend brunch. The combination of smoked salmon, fresh dill, and creamy eggs will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 6 ounces smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 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 cubes.
3. Dot the top with butter, then sprinkle with dill, salmon, eggs, and cheese (if using).
4. Top with remaining bread cubes.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your brunch game with these 18 delicious strata recipes! From classic combinations like cheese and herb, to savory options like sausage and mushroom, and even sweet treats like apple and brie, there’s a strata recipe for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying snack, these versatile dishes are sure to please. With a range of flavors and ingredients, you’ll find inspiration for your next gathering, whether it’s a casual brunch with friends or a special celebration.
