Brunch Strada
A hearty brunch casserole with bread, ham, cheese, and chilies baked in a creamy egg mixture, perfect for family gatherings or weekend brunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place bread cubes and ham cubes in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Combine milk, eggs, cheese, salt, pepper, and dry mustard in a blender.
- Blend until the cheese is grated and ingredients are well mixed.
- Stir in diced chilies.
- Pour the mixture over the bread and ham, ensuring all cubes are moistened.
- Let stand in the refrigerator overnight.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, use sourdough or whole grain bread instead of regular white bread. You can also substitute the ham with cooked sausage or bacon for different flavors. If you're short on time, prepare the mixture and let it sit for just a couple of hours instead of overnight. Adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Brunch Strada hot from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier brunch, consider serving it alongside some crispy bacon or a slice of Crusty Cornbread. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be easily doubled for larger groups.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen; just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brunch Strada contains roughly 474 calories, with 21g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (45% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 920mg per serving (40% 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 the Brunch Strada without meat?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ham. Consider adding sautéed vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, to enhance the flavor and texture. You could also increase the amount of cheese for a richer taste.
What types of bread work best for this recipe?
While the recipe calls for regular bread, you can use any sturdy bread, such as French bread, whole grain, or even bagels. Just ensure the bread is not too soft, as it needs to hold up during baking and soaking.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a large gathering?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. Assemble it the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it an ideal option for brunch parties or holiday gatherings.
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).