Ingredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small yellow onion, diced
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1 garlic clove, minced
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2 red bell peppers, diced
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1 cup broccoli florets
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2 cups cauliflower florets
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2 teaspoons salt, divided
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12 large eggs
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1 cup low-fat or whole milk
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1 loaf Italian bread, ciabatta, or baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
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1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
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Sauté the Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes.
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Cook the Vegetables: Add the garlic, red bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly.
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Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, remaining teaspoon of salt, and ⅔ cup of shredded cheddar.
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Assemble the Strata: Grease a 13 × 9-inch baking dish with butter. Add the bread cubes and sautéed vegetables, tossing gently to distribute them evenly.
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Add the Eggs: Pour the egg mixture over the bread and vegetables. Gently press down on the bread so it absorbs some of the liquid. Sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of cheddar over the top.
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Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
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Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. A food thermometer inserted into the center should register 160°F.
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Rest and Serve: Let the strata rest for a few minutes before cutting into portions and serving.
Notes
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Use slightly stale bread: Day-old bread absorbs the egg mixture well while maintaining its texture.
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Cut evenly: Uniform bread cubes help the casserole soak and bake more consistently.
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Cool the vegetables slightly: This prevents them from heating the egg mixture before the casserole goes into the oven.
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Check the center: The strata should be set rather than liquid in the middle before serving.
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Customize the cheese: Swap some of the cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
