Brunch Strata
A hearty brunch casserole layered with ham, broccoli, cheese, and bread, baked to perfection. Perfect for family gatherings or weekend brunches, combining savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a donut cutter to cut out 'donuts' and holes from the bread. Save the donuts and holes; place the remaining bread scraps on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch sprayed baking dish.
- Layer the cheese, ham (or sausage or bacon), and cooked broccoli in the dish.
- In a bowl, mix together the eggs, milk, minced onion, salt, and dry mustard.
- Place the donuts and holes on top of the layered ingredients in the dish.
- Pour the milk mixture over the entire dish.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 325°F for 55 minutes until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using leftover roasted vegetables or substitute the ham with cooked sausage or bacon for different flavors. You can also replace sharp cheese with a milder variety if preferred. Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to avoid a soggy strata. The overnight refrigeration allows the flavors to meld beautifully, similar to how Baked Pork Chops And Stuffing develops its taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the brunch strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It pairs excellently with a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For a complete brunch experience, consider serving it alongside Sue'S Corn Chowder or a refreshing mimosa. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can easily be doubled for larger crowds.
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 1-2 minutes or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold for a quick breakfast.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brunch Strata contains roughly 447 calories, with 8g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 602mg per serving (26% 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 strata with different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just ensure they are cooked and drained properly before layering to maintain the texture of the strata.
Is it necessary to refrigerate overnight?
While it's recommended to refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully, you can also bake it right after preparation. However, the texture may be less cohesive without the overnight resting period.
Can I freeze the brunch strata?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked strata. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and it can last for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions.
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).