Looking for a delicious and comforting dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than this Spinach and Cheese Strata! This American classic is the perfect blend of savory flavors and hearty textures, making it a standout choice for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. With its layers of fresh spinach, gooey cheese, and perfectly soaked bread, each bite is a delightful experience. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create this mouthwatering strata that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare the bread by cutting it into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, let the cubes sit out for 30 minutes to slightly dry out, which helps them absorb the egg mixture better.
- Wash and finely chop the fresh spinach, removing any tough stems. Pat the spinach dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until completely smooth and well combined.
- Layer half of the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped spinach over the bread cubes, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining bread cubes, spinach, and cheese.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers, ensuring all bread is moistened. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, allowing the bread to fully soak up the egg mixture.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) about 30 minutes before you plan to bake.
- Remove the strata from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The strata should be puffy and should not jiggle when gently shaken.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the strata to set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
- Slice into squares and serve warm. Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, use a sturdy bread like sourdough or French bread. If using fresh bread, let it sit out for about 30 minutes to dry slightly before cubing. This helps it absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, prepare the strata the night before. After layering the ingredients, cover and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the egg mixture fully.
- Don’t Skip the Nutmeg: Just a pinch of nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor. It’s a secret ingredient that elevates your strata from good to unforgettable!
- Bake to Perfection: Keep an eye on your strata while it bakes. It should be puffed and golden brown on top. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
- Let it Rest: After removing the strata from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows it to set, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider garnishing your strata with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 220mg
