If you are searching for a delicious, hearty brunch or a comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug, look no further than Dad’s Day Strata Recipe. This delightful dish combines tender broccoli, flavorful diced tomatoes, savory shredded deli protein, and zesty pepper jack cheese all enveloped in an egg and cream custard, baked to golden perfection. It’s a fantastic way to bring family together around the table and celebrate a special occasion with flavors that feel both fresh and familiar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Dad’s Day Strata Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that makes this strata unforgettable.
- ½ cup broccoli florets: Adds vibrant green color and a fresh, slightly crisp texture to the dish.
- 3 slices whole wheat bread, cubed: Provides a hearty base and soaks up the luscious egg mixture.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano, drained: Infuses the strata with a burst of herby, savory flavor.
- 8 slices deli-style protein, shredded: Offers a satisfying, savory bite that complements the veggies perfectly.
- ¼ cup shredded pepper jack cheese: Adds a mild spicy kick and melty creaminess.
- 4 eggs: Creates the rich custard that binds everything together.
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream: Makes the custard extra creamy and indulgent.
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth of the dish with a gentle garlic aroma.
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste: Seasons the strata perfectly without overpowering other flavors.
How to Make Dad’s Day Strata Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and ready to bake your strata evenly. Grease a 9-inch square casserole dish thoroughly so your strata can come out cleanly and with a beautiful crust.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Fill a saucepan with water just below a steamer insert and bring it to a rolling boil. Toss in your broccoli florets, cover the pan, and steam for about 2 to 4 minutes until tender but still bright green and slightly crisp. This gentle cooking preserves broccoli’s fresh flavor and nutrition.
Step 3: Combine the Strata Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, bring together your steamed broccoli, bread cubes, drained diced tomatoes, shredded deli-style protein, and shredded pepper jack cheese. Mixing these components evenly is key for a balanced bite in every slice of the finished strata.
Step 4: Make and Add the Egg Custard
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper together until smooth. Then pour this luscious custard into the bowl with your strata mixture. Gently stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy egg mixture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the entire strata mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the custard is firm yet still moist inside.
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once baked, resist the urge to dig in immediately. Let your Dad’s Day Strata Recipe cool for 3 to 5 minutes to let the flavors settle and make slicing easier. This rest time turns the strata into the perfect consistency for serving.
How to Serve Dad’s Day Strata Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. A dollop of tangy sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado can add a lovely creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the richness of the strata.
Side Dishes
This strata shines as the centerpiece alongside a simple fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted breakfast potatoes with herbs. For a brunch celebration, complement it with fresh fruit or warm cinnamon-spiced apples to balance savory and sweet.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, bake the strata in individual ramekins to make personal servings. Alternatively, sprinkle extra cheese and herbs on top halfway through baking for a bubbly, golden crust that’s irresistibly inviting. This recipe is perfect for serving on a rustic wooden board with a few comforting sides for a cozy family feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (and trust me, you might!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The strata keeps its flavors wonderfully well and can brighten up any next-day meal with minimal effort.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the strata after it has completely cooled. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, to preserve the custard’s creamy texture and prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in Dad’s Day Strata Recipe?
Absolutely! While pepper jack adds a nice kick, feel free to swap it with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy gouda depending on your taste preference. Each cheese will bring a unique flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the deli-style protein with your favorite vegetarian option such as sautéed mushrooms, crumbled tofu, or a meatless deli substitute to keep the dish just as hearty and satisfying.
What bread types work best for strata?
Whole wheat is great for a nutty flavor, but other sturdy breads like sourdough, French, or ciabatta work well too. Just make sure to use day-old or slightly dried bread so it absorbs the custard nicely.
Can I prepare Dad’s Day Strata Recipe the night before?
Definitely! You can assemble the strata the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
How spicy is the pepper jack cheese?
Pepper jack has a mild to moderate heat level that gives a gentle kick without overwhelming the other ingredients. If you prefer less spice, swap it with a milder cheese or reduce the quantity slightly.
Final Thoughts
Dad’s Day Strata Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm, loving embrace on a plate. Its combination of fresh vegetables, savory proteins, and creamy custard baked to golden perfection makes it perfect for any special morning or celebratory brunch. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover the joy it can bring to your table and your loved ones.
Print
Dad’s Day Strata Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Dad’s Day Strata is a comforting, savory baked casserole featuring steamed broccoli, whole wheat bread, diced tomatoes, shredded deli-style protein, and pepper jack cheese, all enveloped in a creamy garlic-infused egg custard. Perfect for a family brunch or a hearty breakfast, this strata combines fresh ingredients with an easy preparation that comes together in under an hour.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- ½ cup broccoli florets
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano, drained
Bread & Protein
- 3 slices whole wheat bread, cubed
- 8 slices deli-style protein, shredded
- ¼ cup shredded pepper jack cheese
Egg Mixture
- 4 eggs
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch square casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Steam Broccoli: Fill a saucepan with water just below a steamer insert and bring it to a boil. Place broccoli florets into the steamer, cover, and steam until tender, which should take about 2 to 4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Main Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the steamed broccoli, cubed whole wheat bread, drained diced tomatoes, shredded deli-style protein, and shredded pepper jack cheese until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper until well combined to create a smooth custard.
- Mix and Transfer: Stir the egg mixture into the broccoli and bread mixture, ensuring everything is coated evenly. Pour this combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set in the center and the top is slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the strata from the oven and let it cool for 3 to 5 minutes before slicing into portions and serving warm.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking.
- Use any favorite deli-style protein, such as turkey, ham, or chicken.
- Make sure to drain diced tomatoes well to avoid excess moisture in the strata.
- The dish can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning for convenience.
- Steam broccoli until just tender to maintain a slight crispness and vibrant color.
