Spinach and Cheese Breakfast Strata - A Cozy Make-Ahead Brunch Favorite

Ingredients

• Day-old bread (French, Italian, or sourdough), about 10 cups cubed
• Eggs (8 large)
• Milk (2 cups; whole or 2%)
• Heavy cream (1 cup; or use more milk for lighter)
• Fresh spinach (10–12 ounces), roughly chopped
• Yellow onion (1 medium), diced
• Garlic (3 cloves), minced
• Cheddar (1 1/2 cups shredded)
• Gruyère or Swiss (1 cup shredded)
• Parmesan (1/2 cup grated)
• Butter (2 tablespoons)
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
• Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon)
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional add-ins: red pepper flakes, nutmeg, mushrooms, cooked bacon or sausage

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep the pan: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter. Set aside.

2. 2

   Toast the bread: Spread bread cubes on a sheet pan and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until slightly dry. This helps prevent sogginess.

3. 3

   Sauté aromatics: Warm olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook onion with a pinch of salt until soft, 5–6 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

4. 4

   Wilt the spinach: Add chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted and most moisture evaporates, 2–3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Cool slightly.

5. 5

   Make the custard: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, Dijon, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper until smooth.

6. 6

   Layer the strata: Place half the bread in the dish. Top with half the spinach mixture and half the cheeses (Cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan). Repeat with remaining bread, spinach, and cheeses.

7. 7

   Add custard: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers. Gently press down so the bread absorbs the liquid.

8. 8

   Rest: Cover tightly and refrigerate at least 1 hour or up to overnight. Overnight is best for flavor and texture.

9. 9

   Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover and bake 45–55 minutes until puffed, golden, and a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Tent with foil if browning too fast.

10. 10

    Set and serve: Let rest 10 minutes. Slice and serve warm. A bright side like fruit or a simple salad works well.