Bacon, Cheddar and Spinach Strata

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped yellow or white onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 10 oz package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 6 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

45-50 minutes

Difficulty Level:

1 (Simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter and cook onion and garlic over medium heat until softened. Add spinach and cook until heated through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, milk, pepper, salt, and paprika. Add to the skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute, or until sauce thickens.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cheddar cheese, bacon, and chives. Stir in the spinach mixture. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until set and golden brown on top.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1/8 of the recipe):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 25g

Dish Characteristics:

• Savory and cheesy
• Packed with spinach, bacon, and cheddar
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch
• Easy to make ahead and reheat

User Comments:

• "This strata is so easy to make and it always turns out perfect. I love that it's so versatile and can be made with different ingredients."
• "This is a great dish to bring to a potluck or brunch. Everyone always loves it!"
• "I love the combination of flavors in this dish. The spinach adds a nice freshness, while the bacon and cheese give it a rich and savory flavor."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• To make ahead, prepare the strata according to the recipe and then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• When reheating, cover the strata with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon.