Company Cheese Strata
A hearty breakfast casserole combining bread, cheese, ham, and green onions, perfect for brunch or family gatherings, offering savory flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bread slices with a 2 3/4-inch doughnut cutter to make 12 rounds; tear remaining bread into 1-inch pieces and arrange in the bottom of a greased medium roasting pan.
- Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese, diced ham, grated Parmesan, and sliced green onion over the bread pieces.
- Arrange the bread rounds over the cheese and ham layer.
- In a large Mix-N-Store pitcher, combine milk, beaten eggs, snipped parsley, and dried mustard; pour over the bread and cheese layers.
- Seal and chill the casserole for at least 1 hour or overnight before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses such as sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a little heat. If you want to add vegetables, sautéed bell peppers or spinach would work well. Be sure to let the casserole chill for at least one hour; overnight chilling helps the flavors meld beautifully. You can prepare this ahead of time, making it perfect for brunch gatherings or company meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Company Cheese Strata warm, garnished with additional snipped parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete meal. Consider serving alongside a savory side like Broiler Cheese Flops for a delightful brunch spread that will impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook, as this can make the eggs rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Company Cheese Strata contains roughly 1429 calories, with 38g protein, 273g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (110% of the Daily Value), protein (75% of the Daily Value), and calcium (75% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1524mg per serving (66% 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 this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is best when prepared a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the chilling step, cover it well, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the egg and milk mixture, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish.
What can I substitute for the ham?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the ham altogether or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or cooked spinach. For a different protein, cooked bacon or sausage can add a nice flavor. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to complement your substitution.
Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, you can use various types of bread such as sourdough or ciabatta for different textures and flavors. Just ensure the bread is firm enough to hold up during baking. Whole wheat bread will also work well if you're looking for a healthier option.
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).