Autumn has set in and the few straggling leaves clinging to the branches seem to be in a contest to see who can hold on the longest. Not only do the trees know that winter is on its way, but there is a good chance that you are feeling the anticipation of the upcoming holiday season! It’s no secret that moms have a lot to juggle all year long, but when the holidays are fast approaching it can add a weight to our shoulders that has the potential to steal some of that comfort and joy we sing so much about! Out of town guests, meal planning and prep, lists upon lists of special activities and gifts. These are good things even if thinking about them can get a little stressful in the moment.
One way to make this season simpler is planning a few filling, crowd-pleasing, meals that will leave you and your loved ones satisfied, making it easier to sit back and enjoy this cozy time of year together. One such dish is a Brunch Beef Strata-not only does it serve eight, but it can be made the night before, so you’ll have a more relaxed morning! Ground beef makes this a no-fuss dish to throw together and it tends to be a better value for your money, especially if you buy it in bulk. If you’re shopping for a good deal, I recommend the three-pack of lean ground beef from Costco. We buy several of them for our family of six every time we’re there and I’m always so glad to have them on hand. Especially during the holiday season!
This post is sponsored by the Washington State Beef Commission.
Why is beef such a great addition to a breakfast dish you might ask? Of the 10 essential nutrients beef is known for, protein is one of the most notable. 20-30 grams of protein at each meal provides fifty percent of your daily value and will help you feel more satisfied which can help reduce overeating. This hearty Strata happens to have 36 grams of protein! For those of us aiming to eat healthier during these fall and winter months, that just might help us say no to some of those extra holiday treats we’re surrounded by! Just maybe.
Mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and fresh basil add amazing color and flavor to this dish. It is just the thing you will want to wake up to when you have a full house and a busy holiday schedule! Keep you and your family fueled with this Beef Strata for brunch and try to remember that hospitality and generosity are some of the most beautiful parts of the holiday season! If you find that you’re getting overwhelmed with all the plans, hosting, and details, take a step back and think about where you can simplify things. Yes- we have a LOT on our plates this season (pun intended), but the holidays can be enjoyable for moms, too!
Brunch Beef Strata
Ingredients:
• 1-1/2 pounds Ground Beef
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper, divided
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 ounces button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 2 cups milk
• 5 large eggs
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 8 cups crustless bread cubes (3/4-inch)
• 2 cups shredded Asiago or fontina cheese
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, cut in half
• Thinly sliced fresh basil
Directions:
1. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add Ground Beef; cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking into 3/4-inch crumbles and stirring occasionally. Remove from skillet with slotted spoon; season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Set aside. Pour off drippings from skillet.
- Cook’s Tip: Cooking times are for fresh or thoroughly thawed Ground Beef. Ground Beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F. Color is not a reliable indicator of Ground Beef doneness.
2. Heat oil in same skillet over medium heat until hot. Add mushrooms and onion; cook 3 to 4 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring frequently. Return beef to skillet. Add thyme; cook 3 to 5 minutes or until heated through, stirring frequently. Remove from heat. Set aside.
3. Whisk milk, eggs, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in large bowl until blended.
4. Spray 2-1/2 to 3-quart shallow baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Layer half of the bread cubes, 1/2 cup of the cheese and half of the beef mixture in dish. Pour half of the egg mixture over the top. Top with remaining bread cubes, 1/2 cup of the cheese and remaining beef and egg mixtures. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese. Press any dry bread cubes into egg mixture. Cover with aluminum foil; refrigerate 6 hours or as long as overnight.
- Cook’s Tip: To bake strata immediately, heat oven to 350°F. Assemble strata in dish as directed. Bake, covered, 40 minutes. Uncover; bake 10 to 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake strata, covered, 55 minutes. Remove foil. Bake, uncovered, 10 to 15 minutes or until puffed and lightly browned. Let stand 5 minutes. Top with tomatoes and basil, as desired.
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Read more of Maria’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.
