SPRING POTATO STRATA

Steps:

• Heat oven to 375 F degrees.
• Lightly spray 13 x 9-inch baking dish with no-stick cooking spray; set aside.
• In large skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat until melted.
• Cook and stir leeks and garlic 1 to 2 minutes or until leeks are tender.
• Add bell peppers and mushrooms; cook 4 to 6 minutes or until peppers are crisp-tender.
• Remove from heat; set aside.
• Layer 1/2 of the potatoes onto bottom of prepared dish; sprinkle with 1 1/2 cups of the cheese.
• Spoon vegetable mixture over cheese.
• Layer remaining potatoes over vegetables.
• In medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper and thyme (if desired); pour evenly over potatoes.
• Cover with aluminum foil.
• Bake 1 hour or until potatoes are almost tender.
• Remove foil; top with remaining 1 cup cheese.
• Bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until top is golden and potatoes are tender.
• Let stand 5 to 10 minutes; cut into 8 servings.