Spinach & Cheese Strata

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spinach & Cheese Strata is a savory breakfast casserole that’s perfect for make-ahead meals, brunch gatherings, or a cozy weekend treat. Packed with layers of bread, tender spinach, and gooey melted cheese soaked in a rich egg custard, this dish is comforting, flavorful, and effortlessly satisfying. It’s a great way to use leftover bread and sneak in some greens!

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

day-old bread (cubed)fresh or frozen spinach (thawed and drained)shredded cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or gruyère)eggsmilkheavy creamgarlic (minced)onion (diced)saltblack pepperolive oil or butter

directions

Grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter.

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.

Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until any excess moisture evaporates. Season with salt and pepper.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cubed bread, followed by half of the spinach mixture and half of the cheese. Repeat the layers.

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire dish, pressing down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.

Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the strata uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.

Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesChilling time: 2–12 hoursBaking time: 45–55 minutesTotal time: 3–13 hours (including chill)

Variations

Add cooked bacon or sausage for a meatier version.

Use kale, chard, or mixed greens instead of spinach.

Try different cheeses like feta, Swiss, or pepper jack.

Include diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.

Make individual servings using muffin tins.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes.For longer storage, wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this strata ahead of time?

Yes, it’s designed to be made ahead and baked the next day.

What type of bread works best?

Sturdy, day-old bread like sourdough, French, or ciabatta is ideal.

Can I use fresh spinach?

Yes, just cook it down and drain well to remove excess moisture.

Do I have to chill the strata before baking?

Chilling allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, ensuring a rich texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use non-dairy milk and cheese alternatives, and skip the cream.

Is this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Why is my strata soggy?

Too much liquid or insufficient baking time can cause sogginess. Make sure to measure and bake properly.

Can I add herbs?

Yes, try fresh thyme, basil, or chives for added flavor.

Can I halve the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a smaller baking dish and reduce baking time slightly.

Is it good for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for prepping ahead and reheats beautifully.

Conclusion

Spinach & Cheese Strata is the ultimate brunch-friendly dish—comforting, customizable, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping your meals for the week, this hearty casserole is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a reliable recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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