They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. It fuels your body, kickstarts your metabolism, and sets the tone for the hours ahead. Brunch, on the other hand, is breakfast's cooler, laid-back sibling — perfect for leisurely weekends. Combining good food with great company, breakfast and brunch can transform even the dullest morning into something vibrant and celebratory. But what do you make when you want something easy, delicious, and a little special?
Today, I’m sharing a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between cozy and impressive. This Savory Veggie-Packed Breakfast Strata is a one-dish wonder that can be prepped ahead of time and baked fresh in the morning. Whether you're hosting a brunch party or enjoying a quiet breakfast at home, this dish fits the bill.
Savory Veggie-Packed Breakfast Strata
What You’ll Need:
For the main dish
- 1 large loaf of crusty bread (preferably day-old), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup chopped baby spinach
- ½ a red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For garnishing (optional):
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1. Prep and Toast Your Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the bread cubes out on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 7-10 minutes, or until lightly crisp. This helps prevent a soggy dish later.
Step 2. Sauté the Veggies
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onions and bell peppers, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Toss in the spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in the cherry tomatoes.
Step 3. Combine the Egg Mixture
- Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl, then whisk with the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4. Assemble the Strata
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Layer half of the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle half of the veggie mixture and half the shredded cheese over the bread.
- Repeat with the remaining bread, veggies, and cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, making sure every piece of bread gets soaked. Lightly press everything down to ensure it absorbs the liquid.
Step 5. Bake and Serve
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Allow the strata to cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley or chives and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Make It Special:
- Add Protein: Toss in cooked crumbled sausage, crisp bacon bits, or diced ham for a heartier meal.
- Cheese Swap: Try gruyere, feta, or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce will add a kick.
- Serve with Style: Pair your strata with a simple side salad, fresh fruit, or a warm cup of coffee for a complete brunch experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe:
This strata is everything you want in a breakfast dish — cheesy, savory, and full of flavor-packed veggies. The best part? You can prep it the night before! Just assemble it, cover with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge overnight. Pop it in the oven in the morning and enjoy effortless brunch success.
When it comes to breakfast and brunch, a little planning goes a long way. Kick back, relax, and savor the morning with this vibrant dish that’s sure to leave everyone begging for seconds!
Post a Comment