Spinach and Feta Breakfast Strata

by

This Spinach and Feta Breakfast Strata is the ultimate dish for lazy New Year mornings. It’s easy to prepare ahead and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients

For the Base:

  • 1 large loaf crusty bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8-10 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2½ cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

  • 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preparation (Night Before):

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
  3. Sauté onions until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes)
  4. Add garlic and cook for another minute
  5. Add spinach in batches, cooking until wilted
  6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly

Assembly:

  1. Layer half of the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish
  2. Spread half of the spinach mixture over the bread
  3. Sprinkle half of each cheese over the spinach
  4. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients

Make the Custard:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper
  2. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered ingredients
  3. Press down gently to ensure bread is soaking up the liquid
  4. Cover with plastic wrap
  5. Refrigerate overnight (at least 8 hours)

Baking:

  1. Remove strata from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
  3. Uncover the strata
  4. Bake for 45-55 minutes until puffed and golden brown
  5. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving

Note: Serves 8-10 people

Pro Tips:

  • Use day-old bread for better texture
  • Squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach after cooking
  • Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center – it should come out clean
  • Can be made up to 24 hours in advance