Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ½ cup half-and-half
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Vegetables and Meat
- 2 green onions, sliced (white and green parts)
- 3 handfuls dark leafy greens such as spinach, arugula, or baby kale, chopped (about 1 cup packed)
- 1 cup diced salty deli meat such as Canadian bacon, ham, cooked bacon, or sausage (vegetarian version: omit meat)
Base and Cheese
- 8 ounces (about 2 ½ packed cups) leftover bread torn into 1-inch pieces (English muffins, bagels, or sourdough bread)
- ¾ cup shredded mild melting cheese such as Gruyere, provolone, goat cheese, or Gouda
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare dish: Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 1 ½ quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix eggs and dairy: In a large bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs, 1 ½ cups milk, ½ cup half-and-half, a pinch of ground nutmeg, a pinch of cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Combine strata ingredients: Fold in the chopped dark leafy greens, sliced green onions, diced deli meat, torn bread pieces, and ½ cup of the shredded cheese into the egg mixture, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Assemble strata: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes to allow the strata to set and start cooking through.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the strata is puffed up, golden brown at the edges, and set in the center. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Check doneness and rest: If you do not have a thermometer, insert a fork into the center and check for a firm texture; if still runny, bake another 10–15 minutes. Once set, remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up and the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use leftover bread for the best texture and to reduce waste.
- Substitute deli meat for a vegetarian version by omitting meat or using plant-based alternatives.
- Green leafy vegetables like spinach, arugula, or baby kale add freshness and nutrients.
- Measure salt carefully as deli meat can be salty; adjust to taste.
- Resting the strata after baking helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Strata can be assembled the night before and refrigerated to bake fresh in the morning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
