Gouda Strata
A cheesy, savory strata with Gouda and Monterey Jack that makes a hearty breakfast or brunch dish, perfect for cheese lovers and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. reduced-calorie margarine ⓘ
- 6 slices thin-sliced whole wheat bread ⓘ
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (2 oz.) ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded Gouda cheese (4 oz.) ⓘ
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 large clove garlic, finely chopped ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dry mustard
- 1 1/2 cups skim milk ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper sauce
- 3 eggs ⓘ
- 1 egg white
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Spread margarine on one side of each bread slice.
- Cut each slice diagonally into four triangles.
- Arrange 16 bread triangles with margarine sides against sides and bottom of an ungreased 8x8-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine shredded Monterey Jack cheese, shredded Gouda cheese, chopped onion, chopped garlic, and dry mustard.
- In another bowl, whisk together skim milk, red pepper sauce, eggs, and egg white.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread in the dish, ensuring the bread is soaked.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes or until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sausage to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the reduced-calorie margarine with olive oil spray. You can also use different types of cheese such as cheddar or fontina for variety. Ensure the bread is slightly stale for better absorption of the egg mixture, similar to techniques used in vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Gouda Strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For a brunch occasion, this dish complements mimosas or a light white wine, and can be served alongside Campers Potatoes for a hearty spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gouda Strata contains roughly 788 calories, with 12g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 789mg per serving (34% 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 Gouda Strata a day in advance. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of skim milk?
You can substitute almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Just ensure that the substitute is unsweetened to maintain the savory flavor of the dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, this dish is already vegetarian-friendly. You can enhance its nutritional value by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the cheese mixture before baking. This will add flavor and texture, making it a wholesome meal.
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).