Name: Ina Garten Breakfast Strata Recipe
Prep time: PT-973448H8M26S
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 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)

Ina Garten Breakfast Strata Recipe

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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.

Author: Anabelle Mclean
Prep Time: 15
overnight refrigeration: 120
Cook Time: 60
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking

Ingredients

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

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.

Find it online: https://inagartencooks.com/ina-garten-breakfast-strata/