Christmas Brunch Strata(Perfect - It Is Prepared The Day Before!)
A savory overnight casserole layered with bread, cheese, broccoli, and ham, perfect for festive brunches and easy to prepare ahead of time for busy mornings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 6 slices of bread in the bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish. Reserve 1/2 cup cheese, then sprinkle the remaining cheese over the bread.
- Add a layer of cooked and drained chopped broccoli, then a layer of diced cooked ham.
- Layer the remaining bread on top.
- Combine the remaining ingredients: eggs, milk, minced onion, salt, and dry mustard, then pour over the layered bread, broccoli, and ham.
- Top with sesame seed, cover, and refrigerate for 6 hours or overnight before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the milk with unsweetened almond milk and using whole grain bread for added fiber. You can also replace the sharp Cheddar with a milder cheese if desired. Make sure to let the strata sit overnight; this allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture thoroughly, ensuring a custardy texture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Christmas Brunch Strata warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for added color. It pairs beautifully with a light side salad or some fresh fruit to balance the richness of the dish. Consider serving it alongside Special Mashed Potato Salad for a complete brunch spread. A festive drink, like mimosas or hot apple cider, would complement this hearty dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover strata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the strata into portions and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the oven method will maintain the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Brunch Strata(Perfect - It Is Prepared The Day Before!) contains roughly 2181 calories, with 52g protein, 248g carbohydrates, and 115g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (105% of the Daily Value), calcium (79% of the Daily Value), and iron (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2009mg per serving (87% 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 without the ham?
Absolutely! This dish can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the ham. You can add more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for flavor and texture. Just ensure that the total amount of fillings remains similar to maintain balance with the egg and milk mixture.
How can I make the strata ahead of time?
This recipe is perfect for making ahead! You can assemble the strata the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. Bake it the next morning for a delicious, hassle-free brunch option.
Can I freeze the Christmas Brunch Strata?
Yes, you can freeze the strata before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Note that freezing may slightly alter the texture, but it will still be delicious!
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).