Name: Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf (sourdough or ciabatta), cubed; 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced; 1 large sweet onion, sliced; 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free); 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 tbsp fresh herbs (thyme or parsley)

Elevate your breakfast game with our delightful Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions. This savory dish combines layers of bread, fresh vegetables, and cheese, all baked to perfection. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family brunch, it’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions is simple enough for any skill level.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of earthy mushrooms and sweet caramelized onions gives this dish an irresistible taste.
Feed a Crowd: Perfect for brunch, this recipe can easily serve a large group without a lot of extra work.
Versatile: Customizable to your taste, you can add different ingredients based on personal preference or what you have on hand.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it the night before for an effortless morning meal with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating the perfect Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions. Each element plays a vital role in developing the flavors and textures that make this dish unique.

Bread: A good quality loaf, such as sourdough or ciabatta, adds structure and texture to the dish.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms bring an earthy flavor and a chewy texture that enhances the strata.
Onions: Sweet onions, when caramelized, add a lovely depth of flavor and natural sweetness.
Eggs: They bind everything together and create a rich custard that holds the strata together.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella creates a luscious, melty topping.
Seasonings: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley and salt and pepper round out the dish perfectly.

Variations for Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions

Don’t hesitate to make this Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions your own! With just a few swaps, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Vegetable Variations: Swap in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a fresh twist.
Protein Additions: Include cooked sausage or bacon for an extra protein boost that adds flavor.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with goat cheese, feta, or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Herb Blends: Try using basil or dill instead of thyme for a unique aroma and taste.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.

Hearty Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions

How to Make Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by slicing the mushrooms and onions. In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and sauté the onions until they become translucent. Add the mushrooms and cook until they’re browned and tender.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Lower the heat and allow the onions to caramelize, stirring occasionally. This process should take about 15 to 20 minutes, bringing out their natural sugars and sweetness.

Step 3: Assemble the Strata

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and herbs. Layer bread cubes in a greased baking dish, followed by the sautéed mushrooms and onions, and finally sprinkle on the cheese. Pour the egg mixture over everything to ensure it’s generously soaked.

Step 4: Refrigerate

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results. This allows the bread to absorb the custard.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the strata from the fridge, uncover, and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard has set.

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions

Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread soaks up the custard better, preventing a soggy strata.
Don’t Rush the Caramelization: Patience is key; slow cooking enhances the flavors of the onions.
Let It Rest: Allow the strata to cool a bit before serving so the layers can set.
Cover for Half the Baking Time: To avoid over-browning, cover with foil during the first part of baking.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be shy to try different herbs and spices to elevate the flavor.

How to Serve Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs or a light dusting of parmesan adds a lovely touch to the baked strata, enhancing both appearance and flavor.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or even a light green salad for a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual ramekins for a charming presentation, or cut into squares and serve on a rustic wooden board for a family-style meal. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can also elevate the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.

Freezing

For long-term storage, the assembled strata can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be stored for up to three months.

Reheating

To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour, or until heated through. For refrigerated leftovers, a quick 15-20 minutes in the oven does the trick.

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! This Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions is naturally vegetarian and delicious as is, or you can add more veggies to enhance the flavor.

How long does the strata need to bake?

The baking time typically ranges from 40-50 minutes. Look for a golden top and set center to indicate doneness.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to swap out for your favorite cheeses based on your taste preferences. Goat cheese or feta can also add an interesting twist.

Is it okay to use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can work in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the strata.

Can this dish be served cold?

While it’s best enjoyed warm, leftovers can be eaten cold or at room temperature if desired.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a flavorful and satisfying breakfast option, look no further than this Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions. With its ease of preparation and endless variations, it’s bound to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation. Give it a try and share your experience!

Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions

Author: Anna
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Elevate your breakfast game with this delightful Breakfast Strata with Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions. A savory dish that combines layers of bread, fresh vegetables, and cheese, baked to perfection and perfect for gatherings or a cozy family brunch.

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by slicing the mushrooms and onions. In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and sauté the onions until they become translucent. Add the mushrooms and cook until they’re browned and tender.
Caramelize the Onions: Lower the heat and allow the onions to caramelize, stirring occasionally. This process should take about 15 to 20 minutes, bringing out their natural sugars and sweetness.
Assemble the Strata: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and herbs. Layer bread cubes in a greased baking dish, followed by the sautéed mushrooms and onions, and finally sprinkle on the cheese. Pour the egg mixture over everything to ensure it’s generously soaked.
Refrigerate: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results. This allows the bread to absorb the custard.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the strata from the fridge, uncover, and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard has set.