Email to Cat      

Broccoli and Cheddar Strata

Source of Recipe

From "The Old Farmer's Almanac Comfort Food" by Ken Haedrich


Recipe Introduction

"Serve this savory bread pudding as a brunch dish for a crowd."

List of Ingredients

◦  5 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided (including 2 tablespoons softened)
◦  1 large loaf soft French or Italian bread, crust removed
◦  1 medium onion, chopped
◦  1 clove garlic, minced
◦  2 cups bite-size broccoli florets
◦  1 cup diced smoked sausage
◦  6 large eggs
◦  2½ cups half-and-half or milk
◦  2 tsp Dijon-style mustard
◦  1 tsp dried basil
◦  ¾ tsp salt
◦  ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
◦  2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese


Recipe

Butter a 13-by-9-inch casserole or 6 to 8 individual ones lavishly with the 2 tablespoons of softened butter.

Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups) and spread to cover the bottom of the casserole(s).

Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat, add the onion, and cook for 5 minutes, or until soft. Add the garlic, broccoli, and sausage, and cook for 3 minutes more, or until the broccoli is soft. Remove from the heat and spoon the broccoli mixture over the bread.

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. Add the half-and-half, mustard, basil, salt, and pepper and whisk to blend. Ladle or pour the egg liquid over the bread. Press gently with a large fork or spoon to moisten all of the bread. Sprinkle with cheese, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Preheat the oven to 350° F.
Remove the plastic wrap and bake small casseroles for 25 to 30 minutes or one large casserole for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Transfer to a cooling rack for 10 minutes before serving.