Cheese-Ham Strata
Cheese-Ham Strata is a hearty, savory casserole with layers of bread, sharp cheddar, and ham, perfect for brunch or family gatherings, offering comforting, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Tear bread into chunks.
- Place half of the bread pieces in the bottom of a buttered 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Layer cheese and diced ham over the bread.
- Place the remaining bread over the cheese and ham.
- In a bowl, combine eggs, milk, instant minced onion, salt, and dry mustard.
- Stir well until mixture is smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread, ham, and cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Bake the strata for 55 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses such as Gruyère or Swiss along with the sharp Cheddar. You can also substitute leftover cooked chicken or turkey for the ham. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. This dish is versatile and can be customized to your taste, much like the Mushroom And Sausage Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese-ham strata warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness. It pairs well with a light green salad or sliced tomatoes for a balanced meal. For a hearty breakfast or brunch, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or pastries, reminiscent of the comforting flavors found in American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover strata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method will keep the texture more appealing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese-Ham Strata contains roughly 450 calories, with 14g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 607mg 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 prepare the strata in advance?
Yes, the strata can be assembled the night before and refrigerated. This allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture, enhancing the flavor. Just be sure to cover it tightly. Bake it in the morning for a delicious, easy breakfast.
Can I freeze the cheese-ham strata?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled strata before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I substitute for the sharp Cheddar cheese?
You can use a blend of cheeses for more complexity. Options like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a flavored cheese like pepper jack can add a nice twist. Just ensure that the total cheese amount remains around 12 oz.
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).