Spinach-Cheese Strata
A hearty spinach and cheese strata layered with bread and baked to golden perfection, ideal for brunch or casual gatherings with rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Butter a 2-quart shallow baking dish.
- In a small skillet, sauté chopped onion in butter about 5 minutes or until tender.
- Add drained spinach and heat until spinach is just separated, stirring often.
- Drain well.
- Toss the spinach mixture with bread cubes in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese over the top.
- In a bowl, combine eggs, milk, salt, Dijon mustard, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread-spinach layer.
- Cut through with a fork to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until set and edges are browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of ricotta cheese to the egg mixture. If you're short on time, use fresh spinach instead of frozen; just sauté it until wilted. You can also substitute different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or Gruyère, to change the flavor profile. For extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spinach-cheese strata warm as a hearty breakfast or brunch option. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad or fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving alongside Baked Pork Chops With Tomato And Rice for a complete meal experience. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover spinach-cheese strata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. For the oven, cover with foil and heat at 350°F for about 20 minutes to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach-Cheese Strata contains roughly 1210 calories, with 35g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (92% of the Daily Value), protein (70% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1728mg per serving (75% 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 strata ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the strata the night before. Assemble all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake it as directed. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I substitute for bread cubes?
If you don't have bread cubes, consider using leftover bagels or croissants cut into pieces. Alternatively, gluten-free bread works well if you need a gluten-free option. Just ensure to adjust baking time if using denser bread.
Can I freeze the spinach-cheese strata?
Yes, you can freeze the strata before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and it will last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
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).