Cheese And Ham Strata
A savory baked strata layered with ham, Swiss cheese, and toasted bread, perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast that delights with creamy and cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Combine shredded Swiss cheese, ground ham, and Dijon mustard.
- Spread 1/2 cup of the ham mixture on 5 slices of toasted and buttered bread slices.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread to form sandwiches.
- Cut the sandwiches diagonally into quarters.
- Arrange the sandwiches standing crust side down in a buttered long baking dish in 3 rows.
- Combine milk and beaten eggs.
- Pour the milk and egg mixture over the top and sides of the assembled sandwiches.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or bell peppers with the ham and cheese. If Swiss cheese isn't available, Gruyère or cheddar can be used as substitutes. You can also use any type of bread you enjoy, including whole grain or sourdough. Ensure the bread is well-toasted to maintain its texture during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese and ham strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color. It's perfect for brunch, paired with a light salad or fresh fruit. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Skillet Chops 'N Beans or a bowl of Gerry'S Five Bean Casserole to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cheese and ham strata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This dish also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Ham Strata contains roughly 633 calories, with 18g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (41% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the strata the night before and refrigerate it. Just pour the milk and egg mixture over the assembled sandwiches right before baking. This allows the bread to soak up the flavors overnight, resulting in a richer taste.
What can I use instead of ham?
If you want to substitute the ham, cooked bacon or sausage can work well, or for a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or spinach to add flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
How do I know when the strata is done baking?
The strata is done when the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set and no longer jiggly. You can also insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean. If it browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
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).