A strata can be refrigerated overnight before being baked, so it’s perfect for entertaining.

Makes 8 servings.

INGREDIENTS

  • 6large eggs
  • 2cups half and half
  • 3tablespoons butter
  • 1cup chopped onion
  • 1/2cup chopped celery
  • 1cup chopped drained roasted red peppers from jar
  • 1garlic clove, minced
  • 2green onions, chopped
  • 2tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1pound fresh crabmeat
  • 8cups 1-inch bread cubes from crustless french bread
  • 1teaspoon salt
  • 3/4teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

    DIRECTIONS

    Butter 10-inch-diameter cake pan with 2-inch-high sides. Whisk eggs and half and half in medium bowl to blend. Melt butter in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and celery; sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Add peppers and garlic; sauté 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in green onions, parsley and thyme. Transfer mixture to large bowl. Add crab and bread cubes and toss to combine. Add egg mixture, salt, and pepper; mix until well combined. Transfer to prepared baking dish. Let stand 30 minutes or cover and refrigerate overnight. Preheat oven to 350°F. Sprinkle strata with cheese. Bake until brown and puffed, about 1 hour. Cool on rack 30 minutes (center will fall). Using sharp knife, cut around edge to loosen. Cut into wedges and serve.