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Cheesy Spinach Strata

If you’ve never heard of strata, it’s somewhat like frittata. The key difference is that the strata have a puffy, souffle-like texture. Frittatas, in their simplest form, are open-faced omelets with toppings.
With swiss cheese and sauteed mushrooms, this strata is a savory breakfast or brunch. Spinach adds an earthy flavor profile. You can make it ahead, too. Have it set aside for guests and just pop it in the oven. If you have leftovers, they can be frozen for 3 months.
The fun thing about strata is you have a lot of room to play with your food. Instead of ham, for example, you could use sausage or bacon. Rather than swiss cheese, use muenster, fontina, or cheddar.
As for vegetables, substitute roasted red peppers for sauteed mushrooms, asparagus, or scallions. Finally, for herbs, just grab your whole pantry. Think onion powder, celery seed, paprika, basil, or coarsely ground black pepper.
Servings: 12

Ingredients

  • 12 large eggs
  • 3 cups half and half
  • 1.5 cups baby swiss, shredded
  • 1.5 cups gouda, shredded
  • 1 cup smoked ham, minced
  • 1 cup diced white onions
  • ¼ cup roasted red or green pepper
  • ⅔ cup well-drained spinach
  • 1.5 tsp salt and pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 12 oz French bread

Instructions 

  • You will need a 9x13 baking pan and a large mixing bowl at the ready.
  • If you have not done so already, shred the cheese, dice the onion, and mince the ham.
  • Whisk all the ingredients together in your mixing bowl.
  • Tear the French Bread into ½-inch pieces (give or take)
  • Grease the baking pan liberally
  • Place the bread pieces into the pan, spreading them out evenly.
  • Pour the blend from the bowl over the top of the bread.
  • Mix things so that the bread has an even coating.
  • Chill in the refrigerator for one hour
  • Preheat your oven to 350F
  • Bake (without aluminum covering) for one hour
  • The strata should look puffy and golden brown
  • Test with a toothpick to ensure the eggs have cooked through
  • Consider serving with a side of fresh fruit. If you’d like sauce, marinara works.