Cheese Strata Provencal
A flavorful baked cheese strata with sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and olives, perfect for brunch or a casual gathering, offering a savory, cheesy, and herbaceous profile.
Ingredients
- 8 to 10 slices large sourdough bread, crusts removed and cubed ⓘ
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar and Jack cheeses ⓘ
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and minced ⓘ
- 1/2 cup drained and chopped artichokes ⓘ
- 1 (2 1/4 oz.) can sliced black olives, drained
- 5 large eggs ⓘ
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix the bread, cheeses, sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and olives together in a bowl.
- Beat eggs, milk, and white pepper together, then pour over the bread mixture.
- Chill the mixture overnight in a greased 8 x 11-inch casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 50 minutes until lightly browned and the center is firm.
- Cool for 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of sharp and mild Cheddar cheese. You can also substitute the sun-dried tomatoes with fresh tomatoes if in season. If you want a bit more texture, add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach. For a vegetarian twist, ensure the cheeses used are free from animal rennet. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to include your favorite Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Cut into squares and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This Cheese Strata pairs beautifully with a light salad or some fresh fruit for a complete meal. For a delightful brunch spread, consider serving it alongside Uncle John'S Graduation Pesto Dip or Cheesy Pita Pizza for a delicious variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or heat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold, making it perfect for brunch or lunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Strata Provencal contains roughly 606 calories, with 14g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (75% of the Daily Value), iron (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 530mg per serving (23% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cheese Strata the night before and let it chill in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to bake it fresh before serving for the best texture and taste.
What can I substitute if I don't have sourdough bread?
If you don’t have sourdough, any sturdy bread like French or whole wheat will work. Just make sure to remove the crusts and cube it to maintain the recipe's texture. You can also use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite flexible. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the mixture. Just make sure to sauté any raw vegetables first to reduce excess moisture and enhance their flavors.
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).