This Sweet Bread Strata is a perfect balance of savory flavors, from the creamy cheese and hearty bread to the slightly sweet notes from the vegetables and sausage. It’s an excellent choice for a family brunch or a comforting breakfast.
The texture of the bread becomes soft and delicious as it soaks in the egg mixture, while the top bakes to a golden, crispy perfection. You can customize the filling with your favorite veggies, cheeses, or even add some cooked bacon for extra flavor. Whether you serve it on a lazy weekend or at a festive gathering, this strata is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Full Recipe:
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1 loaf bread, cubed
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup diced onions
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1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped
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6 large eggs
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1 1/2 cups milk
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1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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2 tablespoons butter
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1/4 cup cooked sausage (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
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Spread the cubed bread in the baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
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In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, ground mustard, salt, black pepper, and thyme until fully combined.
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Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and cheese. Use a spoon to press down gently on the bread to ensure it soaks up the egg mixture.
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Scatter diced onions, bell peppers, and cooked sausage (if using) on top.
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Dot the mixture with butter and cover with foil.
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Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the strata is golden and puffed up.
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Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Sweet Bread Strata: A Comforting and Versatile Brunch Dish
The Sweet Bread Strata is an incredibly versatile dish, perfect for various occasions, from weekend brunches to holiday meals. It brings together the warm, hearty texture of bread with the creamy richness of eggs, the sharp flavor of cheese, and the savory goodness of vegetables or sausage. Whether you prefer a lighter vegetarian version or one packed with protein, this dish is customizable to suit everyone’s taste. With its easy preparation and delicious results, it is no wonder that Sweet Bread Strata is a favorite in many households.
What is a Sweet Bread Strata?
A Strata is a layered casserole dish made from bread, eggs, cheese, and various fillings, and it’s typically baked to golden perfection. The bread soaks up the egg mixture, resulting in a soft, custard-like texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. The name “strata” comes from the Italian word for “layers,” which is a perfect description of the dish. Over time, it has evolved into various versions, from sweet to savory, making it a versatile dish enjoyed by many.
In the case of Sweet Bread Strata, the ingredients can range from tangy cheese and savory vegetables to sweet bread, making it a comforting, delicious dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Perfect for Breakfast and Brunch
The Sweet Bread Strata is a fantastic choice for brunch because it’s both filling and easy to prepare in advance. Imagine waking up to a beautifully baked dish that has all the comfort of a breakfast casserole but is so much more flavorful and satisfying. The best part? You can make it the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning. This feature alone makes it a perfect choice for busy mornings or when hosting guests.
Unlike traditional breakfast options that require constant attention, the Sweet Bread Strata bakes gently in the oven, allowing you to attend to other tasks or relax with a cup of coffee while it cooks.
Versatility of the Sweet Bread Strata
One of the best aspects of Sweet Bread Strata is its versatility. You can tailor it to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. You can make it vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes. For a meatier option, try adding bacon, ham, or sausage. If you prefer a richer flavor, opt for sharper cheeses like gouda or Swiss.
Moreover, it’s incredibly easy to swap ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen. Leftover bread can easily be used in place of fresh bread, and any cheese you have on hand will work, as long as it melts well. This makes it a perfect dish for repurposing leftovers, reducing waste, and creating a meal that tastes like it was made from scratch.
How to Customize Your Sweet Bread Strata
While the classic version of Sweet Bread Strata typically includes eggs, cheese, and savory fillings, there are many ways to personalize it. Here are a few suggestions for customizing your strata:
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Cheese Varieties: Choose a blend of cheeses for added flavor. A mix of sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan can create a well-rounded flavor profile. If you prefer a more intense flavor, try using blue cheese or goat cheese.
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Vegetables: The beauty of this dish is that you can use any vegetables you love. Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a colorful and nutrient-rich strata. If you want a milder flavor, incorporate onions, leeks, or zucchini.
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Protein Add-ins: Sweet Bread Strata is excellent for breakfast protein options. Cooked sausage, crispy bacon, or even diced chicken can add richness and substance to your strata. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can skip the meat entirely or substitute with vegetarian sausage.
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Spices and Herbs: Enhance the flavor of your strata by experimenting with herbs and spices. Fresh thyme, rosemary, and basil can bring a delightful aroma and depth of flavor. For a more fragrant and bold taste, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper.
Benefits of Making Sweet Bread Strata Ahead of Time
One of the standout features of the Sweet Bread Strata is its make-ahead convenience. Unlike other breakfast dishes, this strata benefits from sitting in the fridge overnight. In fact, it’s often best to let the ingredients sit together for a few hours or overnight before baking it. This allows the bread to soak up all the flavorful egg mixture, resulting in a smoother, more cohesive dish.
Making Sweet Bread Strata ahead of time is ideal for those who like to get things done in advance, such as for busy mornings, holiday gatherings, or any event where you want to prepare the meal the day before. Once it’s baked, you can even reheat leftovers for another meal or snack.
Serving and Pairing Sweet Bread Strata
Sweet Bread Strata is a great dish to serve on its own or with side dishes. It can be paired with a fresh salad, sautéed greens, or roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal. For a classic brunch pairing, serve the strata alongside crispy bacon, fresh fruit, or hash browns.
This dish also makes for a great centerpiece at a brunch spread, alongside other comfort food options like pancakes, muffins, and casseroles. It’s filling enough to stand alone but versatile enough to complement other dishes.
Why You Should Try Sweet Bread Strata
If you’re looking for a dish that is easy to prepare, versatile, and incredibly satisfying, then Sweet Bread Strata is the answer. It’s a classic for a reason: it brings comfort and warmth to the table, all while being adaptable to various flavor profiles. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, cooking for your family, or simply indulging in a cozy weekend breakfast, this strata will always hit the spot.
With its combination of savory cheese, egg, and bread, as well as the option to include your favorite fillings, Sweet Bread Strata offers endless possibilities. The best part is that it’s suitable for any time of day, from breakfast to dinner, and it can be made ahead of time to save you time in the kitchen.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sweet Bread Strata is more than just a recipe; it’s a meal that brings people together. With its rich, comforting flavors and endless customization options, it’s a dish that will never go out of style. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, preparing a family meal, or simply craving something hearty, this strata is the perfect choice. So, why not try this easy and delicious dish next time you need a comforting meal? With a few ingredients and some creativity, you’ll be serving up a tasty and satisfying breakfast or brunch everyone will love.
