Cheesy Broccoli Ham Strata
A hearty baked casserole combining broccoli, ham, and cheese with bread, perfect for a comforting brunch or family dinner that packs flavor and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and butter an 8-inch square pan.
- Cover the bottom of the pan with half of the bread cubes.
- Layer the cooked, chopped ham, thawed broccoli in cheese sauce, and shredded Cheddar cheese over the bread.
- Top with the remaining bread cubes.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and mix with milk, salt, and dry mustard.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven until set and golden on top, about 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream to the egg mixture. You can substitute the ham with cooked sausage or turkey for a different flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, use whole grain bread and low-fat cheese. Thaw the frozen broccoli beforehand to ensure even cooking, and feel free to add some sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Broccoli Ham Strata makes a hearty breakfast or brunch dish. Serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with a side of crispy bacon or sausages. For a comforting dinner option, consider serving with a warm bowl of Lazy Soup.
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 until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Broccoli Ham Strata contains roughly 573 calories, with 19g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 767mg 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 use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Simply blanch it for a few minutes until tender before adding it to the strata. This will help retain its vibrant color and crisp texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the strata, omit the ham and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. You can also add some extra cheese for added flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the strata the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just pour the egg mixture over it right before baking. This will enhance the flavors and save you time in the morning.
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).