Ina Garten’s Breakfast Strata is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish. With layers of hearty bread, creamy custard, cheese, and flavorful vegetables, this baked casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Perfect for hosting a brunch or preparing a fuss-free family breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

What is Ina Garten Breakfast Strata?

Breakfast Strata is a baked casserole dish made with bread, eggs, milk, and a variety of mix-ins like cheese, vegetables, or meats. Ina Garten’s version elevates this classic dish with her signature touch of balanced flavors and rich ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Breakfast Strata

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the night before for an effortless morning.
Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or proteins.
Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for feeding a crowd at brunch or holiday breakfasts.
Balanced and Hearty: Combines protein, carbs, and veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Breakfast Strata

Crusty bread – 1 loaf (about 10-12 cups), cut into 1-inch cubes
Eggs – 8 large
Whole milk – 3 cups
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Gruyère or Cheddar cheese – 2 cups, grated
Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
Butter – 2 tbsp, for greasing the dish
Spinach or kale – 2 cups, sautéed
Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced and sautéed
Cooked sausage or bacon – 1 cup, crumbled (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
Fresh parsley or chives – for garnish (optional)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Breakfast Strata

Prepare the Bread: Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and let it sit out for a few hours to dry, or toast in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes until slightly crisp.
Grease the Dish: Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, sauté spinach or kale and mushrooms with a little olive oil until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Strata: Layer half the bread cubes in the prepared dish. Add half the sautéed vegetables, sausage or bacon (if using), and cheeses. Repeat with a second layer of bread, vegetables, and cheese.
Pour the Custard: Evenly pour the egg mixture over the layered bread and fillings. Press gently to ensure the bread absorbs the custard.
Refrigerate: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the strata from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Garnish and Serve: Let the strata rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired, and serve warm.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Breakfast Strata

Fresh Fruit Salad: Adds a refreshing contrast to the rich strata.
Mimosas or Coffee: Perfect beverages to complete a brunch spread.
Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp side dish.
Roasted Potatoes: For an extra hearty breakfast or brunch.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Breakfast Strata

Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without becoming soggy.
Customize the Ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies, cheeses, or proteins.
Don’t Skip Resting Time: Allowing the strata to sit ensures the flavors meld and the bread fully absorbs the custard.
Test for Doneness: The strata should be golden on top and set in the center. A knife inserted should come out clean.
Make It Vegetarian: Omit the meat and load up on vegetables and cheese.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Breakfast Strata

Mediterranean Twist: Use feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives.
Tex-Mex Flavor: Add diced green chilies, pepper jack cheese, and crumbled chorizo.
Seafood Option: Use cooked crab or smoked salmon for a luxurious twist.
Sweet Version: Swap savory ingredients for brioche, berries, and cream cheese for a breakfast bread pudding.
Low-Carb: Use a lower-carb bread alternative or omit the bread and layer with vegetables.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Breakfast Strata

Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Freezing Option: Assemble the strata, but don’t bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Nutrition Value

Calories: ~350 per serving
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fats: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Calcium: ~25% of the daily value

FAQs

Can Breakfast Strata Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes, breakfast strata is a perfect make-ahead dish. Assemble the layers and pour the custard over the bread the night before. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This resting time allows the bread to absorb the custard, ensuring a flavorful and moist strata when baked the next day.

How Do You Prevent Breakfast Strata From Getting Soggy?

To prevent sogginess, use slightly stale or day-old bread, which absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy. Ensure the bread is evenly coated with custard but not overly saturated. Also, avoid adding too many watery vegetables like zucchini without cooking them first to remove excess moisture.

Can You Freeze Breakfast Strata?

Yes, you can freeze breakfast strata. Assemble the strata but do not bake it. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

What Is the Best Bread to Use for Breakfast Strata?

The best bread for breakfast strata is sturdy, crusty bread like sourdough, French bread, or ciabatta. These types of bread hold their structure well and absorb the custard without becoming too soft or falling apart. Avoid using soft sandwich bread, which can lead to a soggy texture.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Breakfast Strata is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch table. With its layers of bread, eggs, cheese, and vegetables, it’s a true comfort food that’s both hearty and elegant

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