Breakfast Strata with Dandelion Greens

Name: Breakfast Strata with Dandelion Greens
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 slices of crusty bread, cubed; 2 cups dandelion greens, chopped; 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Gruyère or Cheddar); 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Dishes

I love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Breakfast Strata with Dandelion Greens has become one of my favorites. The combination of savory flavors and the slight bitterness from the dandelion greens creates a delightful dish that's perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy family morning. With simple ingredients, this strata is easy to prepare ahead of time and bake just before serving. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this creative twist on breakfast!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-20T14:30:19.543Z

When I first tried making a breakfast strata, I didn’t expect it to become a go-to recipe in my kitchen. The layers of bread, cheese, and dandelion greens create a beautiful presentation, adding just the right amount of nutrition to my mornings. I discovered that allowing the bread to soak in the egg mixture overnight enhances the flavors and creates a wonderfully creamy texture when baked.

This dish particularly shines when topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving. It’s a fantastic way to surprise guests with an elegant breakfast that feels gourmet, yet is so approachable to make. My friends often ask for the recipe after their first bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory layers of creamy cheese and fresh greens
Versatile dish that can be prepared in advance
Delightful texture that everyone will enjoy

Ingredient Insights

Dandelion greens add a unique flavor profile to this strata, with their slightly bitter taste offering a nice balance to the richness of the eggs and cheese. If dandelion greens are hard to find or if you're looking for a milder flavor, you can substitute them with spinach or kale. Just be sure to sauté them lightly before adding to the mixture to reduce any bitterness and to ensure they integrate well into the dish.

The choice of cheese is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor. Gruyère provides a nutty richness, while cheddar offers a sharper kick. If you want to experiment, consider adding some crumbled feta for added tanginess or mozzarella for a creamier consistency. Each cheese will slightly change the overall flavor profile, so pick one that complements your palate.

Assembly Techniques

Layering is key for a well-structured strata. As you assemble the dish, ensure that bread cubes hold some of the egg mixture for a custardy texture. I like to gently press down on the layers with a spatula to encourage even egg distribution, which helps prevent dry spots. Allowing the strata to rest for 15 minutes before baking is crucial, as this gives the bread time to soak up the egg mixture, resulting in a more cohesive and satiny texture after baking.

For a more visually appealing dish, consider adding colorful bell peppers or roasted cherry tomatoes to the layers. Not only do these ingredients add vibrant color, but they also enhance the overall flavor with their sweetness. Just be sure to chop them into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking alongside the other ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious breakfast strata!

Ingredients

8 slices of crusty bread, cubed
2 cups dandelion greens, chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Gruyère or Cheddar)
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Ensure everything is fresh for the best flavors!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your strata.

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread with olive oil, tossing to coat evenly. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 minutes until golden.

Mix the Egg Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the chopped dandelion greens and half of the shredded cheese, mixing gently.

Combine and Bake

In a greased baking dish, layer the toasted bread cubes, followed by the egg mixture. Finish with the remaining cheese on top. Allow the layers to settle for about 15 minutes if possible, then bake for 30 minutes or until set and golden.

Let the strata cool slightly before serving!

Pro Tips

For a twist, consider adding cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor. Feel free to experiment with different greens to customize the dish to your liking!

Make-Ahead Storage

This Breakfast Strata can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for brunch gatherings. Simply complete the assembly process but stop short of baking. Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes, then bake according to the original instructions.

Storing any leftovers is easy as well. Allow the strata to cool completely before cutting it into squares. Place the pieces in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps restore the crispy edges while the middle remains moist.

Flavor Variations

Consider adding cooked sausage or bacon to the strata for a heartier flavor profile. Brown your choice of meat in a skillet before incorporating it into the egg mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout the dish. Another delicious option is to incorporate a variety of herbs, such as fresh thyme or basil, which can enhance the freshness and complexity of the dish.

If you want to go vegetarian but still want a protein boost, try adding cooked white beans or chickpeas. They can easily be folded into the egg mixture or layered with the bread, contributing both texture and nutrition while keeping this strata satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Absolutely! Prepping it the night before enhances the flavors. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

→ Is there a substitute for dandelion greens?

Yes, you can use spinach, kale, or even Swiss chard as alternatives to dandelion greens.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I freeze breakfast strata?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.