Easy Veggie and Cheese Strata for Any Occasion

If you’re a home cook looking to add a versatile, vegetarian-friendly dish to your repertoire, look no further than the veggie and cheese strata. This delightful casserole is perfect for both breakfast and dinner, offering endless possibilities for customization. A strata layers bread, veggies, and cheese, soaked in a savory custard mixture, and baked to perfection. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients.

Ingredients

Basic Ingredients

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or French bread all work great)
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, broccoli, mushrooms)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Variations

• Vegetables: Zucchini, tomatoes, kale, or asparagus
• Cheeses: Feta, Gouda, or Monterey Jack
• Herbs and spices: Fresh basil, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika

Preparation

Step 1: Prep the Bread

1. Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. Day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs the custard mixture better.
2. Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and lightly toast in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This step helps prevent soggy strata.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

1. Wash and chop your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the vegetables and sauté until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Strata

1. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer half of the bread cubes at the bottom of the dish.
3. Evenly distribute half of the sautéed vegetables over the bread.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
5. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, vegetables, and cheese.

Step 4: Prepare the Custard

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and veggies in the baking dish. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure everything is well-soaked.

Baking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
4. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center of the strata; it should come out clean.

Serving Suggestions

• Sides: Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted potatoes, or a fruit salad.
• Garnishes: Top with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

The veggie and cheese strata is a simple yet versatile dish that fits perfectly into any meal plan, whether for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Its flexibility allows you to experiment with different vegetables and cheeses to suit your taste. Give it a try and make it your own! If you do, be sure to share your version with us—we’d love to see your culinary creations. Happy cooking!