Spinach Artichoke Strata
Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Ideas
A delightful and savory dish perfect for brunch or a light dinner, featuring layers of bread, spinach, and artichokes baked to perfection.
This Spinach Artichoke Strata is a crowd-pleaser that brings together the earthy flavors of spinach and the tanginess of artichokes, all enveloped in a creamy egg mixture. Perfect for any occasion, it makes for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying lunch. Try it today, and watch it disappear from the table!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying with a burst of flavor in every bite
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for both busy mornings and leisurely brunches
- Versatile—can be customized with your favorite ingredients
A Perfect Brunch Option
Spinach Artichoke Strata is an ideal dish for brunch gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Its combination of hearty bread, nutritious spinach, and flavorful artichokes creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. The layers of ingredients not only provide a delightful presentation but also enhance the taste, making each bite a burst of flavor. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family meal, this strata will surely impress your guests.
This dish is also a fantastic way to use up leftover bread, making it both economical and sustainable. Day-old bread adds texture and absorbs the egg mixture beautifully, resulting in a creamy, custard-like base. Plus, the ease of preparation allows you to spend more time enjoying your company rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
Customization and Variations
One of the best aspects of the Spinach Artichoke Strata is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients or substituting what you have on hand. For instance, feel free to incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the flavor profile. If you're looking to add a protein boost, consider mixing in cooked bacon, ham, or chicken.
Additionally, cheese lovers can experiment with different types of cheese. Swap out mozzarella for cheddar or feta for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a version of this strata that suits your taste preferences perfectly.
Make-Ahead Convenience
Another reason to love this Spinach Artichoke Strata is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the strata the night before and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious dish when baked. Simply pop it in the oven the next day for an easy and impressive meal.
This make-ahead option is particularly beneficial for busy mornings or holiday gatherings. With minimal effort, you can have a hearty dish ready to serve, making it a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy delicious food without the stress of last-minute preparation.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups of cubed day-old bread
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl for a delicious strata.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Bread Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Toss well to mix.
Make the Egg Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture, ensuring everything is well coated.
Assemble the Strata
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake
Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious Spinach Artichoke Strata!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. To reheat, simply place the strata in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
For longer storage, consider freezing the strata. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Spinach Artichoke Strata with a fresh green salad or sliced fruit for a well-rounded meal. A light vinaigrette or yogurt dressing complements the savory strata beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to the dish. Additionally, consider serving it alongside a mimosa or a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a delightful brunch experience.
For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the dish with additional layers of flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prepare this strata in advance?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning.
→ What can I substitute for spinach?
You can use kale or Swiss chard as a substitute for spinach.
→ Is it possible to make this strata gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free bread for a delicious alternative.
→ Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked bacon or sausage can be added for a heartier dish.
Spinach Artichoke Strata
A delightful and savory dish perfect for brunch or a light dinner, featuring layers of bread, spinach, and artichokes baked to perfection.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Quick Dessert Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups of cubed day-old bread
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Toss well to mix.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture, ensuring everything is well coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top and drizzle with olive oil.
Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 15g