Vegetarian Strata Recipe Easy and Delicious Breakfast Idea

Strata is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of bread, fresh vegetables, cheese, and eggs into a warm, satisfying casserole that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. This vegetarian strata recipe elevates simple ingredients into a hearty dish bursting with flavor, texture, and nutrition.

Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this strata will impress with its golden crust and rich, savory filling. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to reduce food waste while enjoying a delicious meal.

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare ahead of time. You can assemble the strata the night before and bake it in the morning, freeing up your day for other activities.

If you love recipes that are fuss-free but packed with flavor, this vegetarian strata is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into all the details so you can create your own perfect strata!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian strata is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make but looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

The layers of bread soak up a rich custard made from eggs and milk, while the medley of sautéed vegetables adds freshness, color, and texture.

It’s also very flexible. You can swap out vegetables based on the season or your pantry.

It’s vegetarian but can be made vegan with simple substitutions like using plant-based milk and tofu scramble.

Lastly, strata is a perfect make-ahead dish. It improves in flavor overnight, making it ideal for busy mornings or entertaining guests.

It reheats beautifully, so leftovers can be enjoyed the next day without losing any of the deliciousness.

Ingredients

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (sourdough or French bread works great)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables have softened and any liquid has evaporated.
4. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
5. Layer the bread and vegetables: Spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the baking dish. Top with half of the sautéed vegetables, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Repeat with remaining bread, vegetables, and cheese.
6. Make the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth and combined.
7. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and vegetable layers. Press down gently on the strata to ensure the bread soaks up the custard fully.
8. Let the strata rest for 15-20 minutes at room temperature to absorb the custard. For best results, cover and refrigerate overnight and bake the next day.
9. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set (a knife inserted in the center should come out clean).
10. Remove from oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the strata firm up for easier slicing.

Tips & Variations

“Using day-old or slightly stale bread helps the strata soak up the custard better without becoming mushy.”

• Vegetable swaps: Try zucchini, broccoli florets, or roasted butternut squash for seasonal twists.
• Cheese alternatives: Use feta, goat cheese, or a spicy pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
• Make it vegan: Substitute eggs with a tofu scramble or chickpea flour batter, and use plant-based milk and vegan cheese.
• Add herbs: Fresh basil, parsley, or chives add brightness and freshness.
• Make ahead: Assemble the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for a stress-free brunch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian strata is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

A side of roasted tomatoes or avocado slices also complements the richness of the casserole.

For brunch, offer alongside fresh fruit, a mimosa, or a hot cup of coffee or tea. Leftovers can be reheated for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.

You can even cut the strata into smaller squares and serve as finger food for parties or potlucks.

Conclusion

This vegetarian strata recipe is a fantastic way to bring together simple, wholesome ingredients into a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Perfect for busy mornings or relaxed weekends, it’s a recipe that suits any occasion.

The combination of crusty bread, vibrant vegetables, and melty cheese baked in a creamy egg custard creates a dish that is truly greater than the sum of its parts.

With plenty of room for customization and make-ahead convenience, this strata will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more meatless meals to your routine, this strata delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease.

For more delightful vegetarian recipes, check out Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals, Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners, and Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.

Happy cooking!

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