Shrimp And Cheese Strata
A savory shrimp and cheese strata layered with bread, Swiss cheese, scallions, and parsley, baked to perfection. This dish offers a comforting, cheesy flavor with tender shrimp, ideal for brunch or a family dinner. It can be prepared ahead, making it perfect for entertaining or weekend meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut each slice of bread in half on the diagonal or into cubes.
- Dip the bread pieces in melted butter.
- Arrange half the bread in an unbuttered 8-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle with half the cheese, chopped scallions, parsley, and cooked shrimp.
- Add the remaining bread and repeat the layering with cheese, scallions, parsley, and shrimp.
- Beat eggs, salt, Dijon mustard, milk, and sour cream together until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread and shrimp in the baking dish.
- Cover and chill the casserole overnight.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes or until puffed and golden.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of Swiss and Gruyère cheese. You can substitute the shrimp with cooked crab or lobster for a luxurious twist. If you're short on time, use pre-sliced bread and skip the butter dipping step, though this will alter the texture slightly. For added depth, incorporate some diced bell peppers or spinach into the layers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp and cheese strata with a light salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Joy'S Salmon Spread as an appetizer. Consider offering a side of fresh fruit or roasted vegetables to complement the richness of the dish. For a brunch setting, serve with mimosas for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a minute or two, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp And Cheese Strata contains roughly 822 calories, with 14g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (35% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1239mg per serving (54% 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 strata ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for make-ahead preparation. After layering the ingredients, cover and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a more cohesive dish when baked.
What can I substitute for the Swiss cheese?
If you're not a fan of Swiss cheese, you can use cheddar or mozzarella as alternatives. Each will give the strata a different taste profile; cheddar will add sharpness, while mozzarella will offer a creamier texture. Experiment to find your favorite combination.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the shrimp and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or zucchini instead. You can also increase the amount of cheese and vegetables for a hearty, satisfying dish that still holds the essence of a classic strata.
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).