Description
A delicious and comforting strata featuring cubed challah bread layered with sautéed vegetables, Gruyère cheese, and a flavorful egg custard. Perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast, this baked casserole is easy to prepare and soak time allows the bread to absorb all the savory flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Cheese
- 4 cups challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 ½ cups grated Gruyère cheese
Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper and cook until softened, then add the spinach and sauté until wilted.
- Layer Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the challah bread cubes evenly. Top with the sautéed vegetable mixture, then sprinkle half of the grated Gruyère cheese. Repeat layering with remaining bread, vegetables, and cheese.
- Whisk Eggs and Pour: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and ground mustard until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the strata layers, pressing down gently to help the bread soak up the custard.
- Soak and Bake: Cover the dish with foil and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid. Then bake covered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the strata is set.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the baked strata to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving to let it firm up for perfect portions.
Notes
- Using challah bread adds sweetness and richness but you can substitute with brioche or white bread if preferred.
- The soaking time of 30 minutes is essential for the bread to absorb the egg custard fully.
- Gruyère cheese gives a nutty flavor – Swiss or mozzarella can be alternatives.
- Make the strata a day ahead by assembling and refrigerating overnight; bake just before serving for convenience.
- Customize by adding cooked sausage or mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Breakfast,Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
