Asparagus Mushroom Strata Recipe
If you’re looking for a showstopper brunch centerpiece, this Asparagus Mushroom Strata absolutely delivers. Layers of tender asparagus, savory mushrooms, golden bread cubes, and melty cheese are woven together with a luscious custard, then baked until irresistibly puffed and golden. It’s the kind of feel-good comfort food that makes mornings memorable, whether you’re gathering family for Sunday brunch or hosting a cozy holiday breakfast. Best of all, this Asparagus Mushroom Strata is as easy to prep ahead as it is impressive at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, each element of this Asparagus Mushroom Strata plays a starring role: vibrant vegetables for brightness, hearty bread for structure, and creamy cheese for richness. Let’s break down why they matter and tips for getting the best results!
- Asparagus (1 pound, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces): Brings a pop of spring color and a fresh, tender bite to every layer.
- Mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced): Add earthy depth and umami that pairs beautifully with creamy eggs.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps soften the veggies and infuse them with subtle flavor.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic backbone that rounds everything out.
- French bread (8 cups, cubed, day-old): Day-old bread works best since it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.
- Swiss or Gruyère cheese (2 cups shredded): Melts beautifully and adds a delightful nutty flavor—try Gruyère for extra sophistication!
- Eggs (8 large): The secret to that fluffy, classic strata texture.
- Milk (2 cups): Helps create the creamy, tender structure of the casserole.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds richness that makes every bite feel luxurious.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Just a little sharpness to wake up the flavors.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning all the layers perfectly.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and balance.
- Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Optional, but just a pinch adds a beautiful depth.
- Fresh parsley (optional garnish): Scatter on top for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
How to Make Asparagus Mushroom Strata
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by giving the vegetables a quick sauté to draw out their best flavors. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and just softened. Toss in the mushrooms and let them cook down for another 5 minutes until they’re tender and their juices have evaporated. Finally, stir in the asparagus for 2 to 3 minutes, just until it turns bright green and tender-crisp. This step is all about building flavor—the perfect foundation for your Asparagus Mushroom Strata.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make serving a breeze. Spread half the cubes of day-old French bread in the bottom to soak up the delicious custard. Scatter over half the sautéed veggies and half the shredded cheese, letting everything mingle together. Repeat with a second layer of bread, vegetables, and cheese. Layering ensures every slice of Asparagus Mushroom Strata is packed with flavor and texture.
Step 3: Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and a little nutmeg if you like. Whisk until completely smooth—this is your strata’s creamy backbone and what transforms dry bread into something spoonable and special. Pour the custard evenly over the layers in your baking dish, then press down gently so all the bread absorbs that luxurious mixture.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the assembled strata tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours). This step is truly magical—it gives the bread time to drink up all the custard and lets the flavors meld. Don’t skip it! A good overnight soak delivers the iconic, tender, almost soufflé-like texture that defines a great Asparagus Mushroom Strata.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
The next morning, remove your Strata from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes while the oven preheats to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes until it’s puffed, golden, and cooked through (the center should feel set, not jiggly). A sprinkle of parsley just before serving brightens up your finished dish. Serve warm and get ready for rave reviews at the breakfast table!
How to Serve Asparagus Mushroom Strata
Garnishes
A shower of finely chopped fresh parsley right on top makes the strata look as inviting as it tastes. If you want to get a little fancier, try thin ribbons of chives, a touch of fresh cracked pepper, or even a sprinkle of shaved Parmesan for extra flair. Presentation counts, after all—it’s the cherry on top of your brunch masterpiece!
Side Dishes
Pair your Asparagus Mushroom Strata with a crisp green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette, some fresh fruit for a little sweetness, or roasted breakfast potatoes for a hearty brunch spread. Don’t forget a good cup of coffee or fresh-squeezed juice—this dish loves cheerful company on the table!
Creative Ways to Present
You can bake the strata in individual ramekins for charming, single-serving portions—so fun for special occasions. Or try cutting the baked strata into squares and serving them as finger food at a party. This versatile Asparagus Mushroom Strata can even be the centerpiece of an elegant brunch board surrounded by smoked salmon, blanched vegetables, and fresh berries.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Asparagus Mushroom Strata keeps beautifully. Simply cover the dish or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days to enjoy quick, satisfying breakfasts all week long.
Freezing
This strata is surprisingly freezer-friendly! After baking and cooling, cut into portions, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, then reheat as desired for a fuss-free brunch on demand.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about one minute, or rewarm larger portions in a 350°F oven until heated through. The bread will stay moist and fluffy, and the flavors just keep getting better—some say leftover Asparagus Mushroom Strata is even tastier the next day!
FAQs
Can I make Asparagus Mushroom Strata fully vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just double-check that your bread is egg- and dairy-free if you’re avoiding those ingredients, and use vegetarian-friendly cheese. The rest of the recipe is naturally vegetarian and packed with flavor.
Can I substitute different vegetables or cheese?
Definitely. Try adding baby spinach, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts for extra color and taste. If Swiss or Gruyère isn’t your style, cheddar or mozzarella are both terrific options for a melty, mild twist.
Do I really have to let it soak overnight?
For the fluffiest, most custardy texture, an overnight soak is ideal. If you’re short on time, let it sit at least two hours, but overnight is what transforms this into classic Asparagus Mushroom Strata greatness.
Can I assemble Asparagus Mushroom Strata ahead for a crowd?
Yes! Assemble and soak the strata in advance, then bake right before guests arrive. You can even double the recipe and use two baking dishes if you’ve got a big group to feed—it’s a brunch hero for entertaining.
What’s the best bread for this recipe?
Sturdy French bread or even ciabatta works best because they hold their shape and soak up the custard without getting soggy. Remember, day-old bread really does wonders here, giving your strata just the right amount of chew.
Final Thoughts
If you love a brunch recipe that feels both impressive and completely doable, you have to try this Asparagus Mushroom Strata. It comes together with everyday ingredients, but tastes like a special occasion every time. Get creative, make it your own, and don’t be surprised if everyone wants seconds!
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Asparagus Mushroom Strata Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (plus overnight refrigeration)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Asparagus Mushroom Strata is a delightful make-ahead dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. Layers of French bread, sautéed vegetables, and cheese soaked in an egg and cream mixture create a savory and satisfying casserole.
Ingredients
For the Strata:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 8 cups cubed French bread (day-old)
- 2 cups shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook onions until softened, then add mushrooms and cook until tender. Add asparagus and cook briefly until bright green. Remove from heat.
- Layer Strata: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer bread, vegetables, and cheese twice.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, mustard, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Pour over the layers, press down, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake: Preheat oven. Let strata stand, then bake uncovered until puffed and golden, about 45-55 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- This dish can be made vegetarian by using egg- and dairy-free bread.
- Swiss cheese can be substituted with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of strata
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
