Asparagus Strata
A hearty asparagus and ham strata layered with cheese and bread, baked to golden perfection—ideal for brunch or family dinners, offering comforting flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Using a doughnut cutter, cut 12 circles and holes from bread; set aside.
- Tear remaining bread into pieces and place in a greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Layer cheese, asparagus, and ham over torn bread; arrange bread circles and holes on top.
- Lightly beat eggs with milk.
- Add onion, salt, and dry mustard; mix well.
- Pour egg mixture over the bread circles and holes.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Bake, uncovered, at 325°F for 55 minutes or until the top is light golden brown.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using sourdough or whole grain bread instead of white bread. If sharp process cheese isn't available, a combination of cheddar and mozzarella can work well. To ensure even cooking, cut asparagus into uniform pieces. You can also add additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for a twist. This dish is great for brunch or as a side dish with your favorite American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the asparagus strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or fruit, making it a perfect brunch dish. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Momma Lela'S Old Fashioned Butter Roll for a comforting combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the strata in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be cautious of overheating, which can make the texture rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Strata contains roughly 614 calories, with 12g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 761mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this asparagus strata is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easy to bake in the morning for a stress-free brunch.
What can I substitute for ham?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Alternatively, cooked chicken or turkey can also be delicious substitutes for the ham, adding a different flavor profile to the dish.
How do I know when the strata is done baking?
The strata is done when the top is light golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. It's important not to overbake, as this can dry it out. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving to set the layers.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).