Description
Dad’s Day Strata is a hearty and flavorful breakfast casserole combining steamed broccoli, whole wheat bread, savory deli-style protein, and melted pepper jack cheese, all baked to perfection in a creamy egg custard. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a comforting family breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Bread
- ½ cup broccoli florets
- 3 slices whole wheat bread, cubed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano, drained
Protein and Dairy
- 8 slices deli-style protein, shredded
- ¼ cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 4 eggs
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
Seasonings
- 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: Place water below a steamer insert in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Add the broccoli florets, cover, and steam until tender, about 2 to 4 minutes. Drain any excess moisture after steaming.
- Combine Strata Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the steamed broccoli, cubed whole wheat bread, drained diced tomatoes, shredded deli-style protein, and shredded pepper jack cheese until evenly combined.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly with heavy whipping cream, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Mix Egg Custard into Strata: Pour the egg mixture into the bowl with the broccoli and bread mixture and stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the fully combined strata mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the eggs are set in the center and the top is lightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 3 to 5 minutes. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Notes
- Use whole wheat bread for added fiber and nutrition.
- Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes well to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- Feel free to substitute deli-style protein with cooked breakfast sausage, ham, or turkey for variation.
- The pepper jack cheese adds a mild spicy kick but you can substitute with cheddar or mozzarella if preferred.
- Make ahead: This strata can be prepped the night before and baked fresh in the morning.
