Ina Garten Breakfast Strata Recipe

Ina Garten Breakfast Strata Recipe is warm, cheesy and perfect for mornings. It is easy to prepare and great for family brunch.

This dish combines bread, eggs, cheese and vegetables. The flavors blend beautifully while baking. Many people love Ina Garten Breakfast Strata Recipe for holidays and weekends.

If you want to learn How to make Ina Garten Breakfast Strata, this guide will help you. The Ingredients for Ina Garten Breakfast Strata are simple and easy to find.

My Experience With This Recipe

I first made this recipe for a Sunday brunch. I wanted something comforting but simple. This dish was perfect.

The kitchen smelled amazing while it baked. The top turned golden and crispy. Inside was soft and creamy.

My family asked for seconds. Now I prepare it for special mornings. It saves time and tastes wonderful.

Recipe Card info

• Recipe Name: Ina Garten Breakfast Strata Recipe
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 65 mins
• Course: Breakfast
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Skillet

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Breakfast Strata

• 6 cups day-old bread, cubed
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• ½ cup diced onion
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter for greasing

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter. Make sure all sides are covered well. This prevents sticking and helps easy serving later.

2. Cook the Sausage and Onion

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook sausage until browned. Add diced onion and cook until soft. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

3. Arrange the Bread

Spread cubed bread evenly in the greased baking dish. Make sure bread covers the bottom completely. This creates the base layer.

4. Add Fillings

Sprinkle cooked sausage mixture over bread. Add chopped spinach evenly. Then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

5. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

6. Pour and Soak

Slowly pour egg mixture over bread and fillings. Press bread gently so it absorbs liquid. Let it sit for 15 minutes.

7. Bake the Strata

Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for about 45 minutes. The top should be golden brown and center set.

8. Rest and Serve

Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes. This helps it firm up. Slice and serve warm.

Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Breakfast Strata

• Use day-old bread for better texture.
• Let the bread soak well before baking.
• Do not skip resting time after baking.
• Use fresh spinach for best flavor.
• Shred cheese yourself for better melting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using fresh soft bread.
• Not greasing the baking dish.
• Overbaking the strata.
• Skipping seasoning.
• Cutting immediately after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ina Garten Breakfast Strata Recipe warm with fresh fruit. Add a side of crispy bacon or breakfast potatoes. A simple green salad works well too.

For drinks, serve coffee, tea or fresh orange juice. This dish is filling and satisfying. It is perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday mornings. Everyone will enjoy its comforting flavor.

Variations You Can Try

• Replace sausage with cooked bacon.
• Add mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Use mozzarella instead of cheddar.
• Add bell peppers for color.
• Make it vegetarian by skipping meat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to three days.
• Reheat in oven at 325°F until warm.
• Cover with foil to prevent drying.
• Avoid microwaving too long.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	420 kcal
Protein	20 g
Fat	30 g
Carbohydrates	22 g
Sodium	580 mg

Health Benefits

Ina Garten Breakfast Strata Recipe provides protein from eggs and sausage. Protein helps keep you full longer. Spinach adds vitamins and minerals.

Milk and cheese offer calcium for strong bones. When enjoyed in moderation, this dish can fit into a balanced diet. Pair it with fruit for added fiber and nutrients.

FAQs about Ina Garten Breakfast Strata Recipe

1. Can I prepare this recipe the night before?

Yes, you can assemble everything at night. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for best results.

2. Can I freeze breakfast strata?

Yes, you can freeze baked strata. Cool completely first. Wrap tightly and freeze up to two months for best quality.

3. How do I know when the strata is done?

Insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean, it is ready. The center should not look wet.

4. Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, you can try Swiss, mozzarella or Gruyere. Each cheese gives a unique flavor and texture.

5. Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well and reheats easily. It is perfect for busy mornings or weekly meal planning.

Final Thoughts

Ina Garten Breakfast Strata Recipe is simple, comforting and perfect for brunch. The Ingredients for Ina Garten Breakfast Strata are easy to find.

Now you understand How to make Ina Garten Breakfast Strata step by step.

This recipe is warm and satisfying. It works for family mornings or special holidays. Try it once and it may become your favorite breakfast dish. Enjoy every bite!