Cheese-Broccoli Strata
A comforting baked casserole featuring layers of bread, sharp cheese, and broccoli, baked to perfection—perfect for family dinners or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- With a donut cutter or a glass, cut 12 circles from the bread.
- Fit leftover bread scraps into the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Place the sliced or grated cheese over the bread layer.
- Add a layer of cooked, chopped broccoli on top of the cheese.
- Arrange the bread circles on top of the broccoli layer.
- In a bowl, combine the eggs, milk, instant minced onion, salt, and dry mustard.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over all the ingredients in the pan.
- Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F (163°C) for 55 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also swap out sharp cheese for a milder variety or use a mix of cheeses for more depth. If you prefer, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; just steam it slightly before adding. To add a touch of herbs, consider mixing in some fresh thyme or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheese-broccoli strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as a simple mixed greens salad, or a side of fresh fruit for a complete meal. For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage links.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover strata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F (163°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese-Broccoli Strata contains roughly 549 calories, with 10g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 676mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the strata the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the egg mixture, resulting in a flavorful and moist dish when baked.
What can I substitute for broccoli?
If you're not a fan of broccoli, you can substitute it with other vegetables like spinach or sautéed mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly if using fresh vegetables.
Can I freeze the cheese-broccoli strata?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled strata before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).