Savory Breakfast Strata

Instructions

1. Prepare the baking dish
   Generously butter a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread half the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the dish and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add red bell pepper and cook for 2 more minutes. Stir in the spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Create the egg mixture
   In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
4. Layer the strata
   Scatter half of the vegetable mixture, ham/sausage, and cheese over the bread in the baking dish. Add the remaining bread cubes in an even layer, then top with the remaining vegetables, meat, and cheese.
5. Add the egg mixture
   Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layers in the baking dish, making sure all bread pieces are moistened. Press down lightly on the top to help the bread absorb the liquid.
6. Rest the strata
   Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture.
7. Bake the strata
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the strata from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Bake uncovered until puffed, golden brown, and set in the center, about 45-50 minutes.
8. Serve
   Let the strata rest for 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving warm. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.