Ham And Broccoli Bake (Strata)
A hearty ham and broccoli bake with cheesy layers and bread doughnuts, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comforting flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch dish or pan.
- Partially cook the broccoli; drain and set aside.
- Cut each slice of bread with a doughnut cutter, setting aside the bread doughnuts.
- Place all bread scraps in the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Layer shredded Cheddar cheese, broccoli, and cooked ham over the bread in the pan.
- Sprinkle chopped onion on top and arrange the bread doughnuts over the layers.
- Combine the eggs, milk, salt, and dry mustard; beat well and pour over the layered ingredients.
- Refrigerate the assembled dish overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Let stand for 10 to 15 minutes before cutting and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of cream cheese or sour cream to the mix. You can substitute fresh broccoli if you prefer, just blanch it to maintain its bright color. Feel free to swap out the Cheddar cheese with a mix of your favorites like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. If you have leftover veggies, toss them in for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Ham And Broccoli Bake is perfect for brunch or as a hearty dinner option. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with a side of Fruit Ham And Pasta Salad for a colorful plate. You can also pair it with crusty bread for a delightful meal. For a festive touch, consider serving this dish at holiday gatherings or potlucks.
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 or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help maintain moisture and prevent the dish from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Broccoli Bake (Strata) contains roughly 554 calories, with 16g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. 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! Preparing the dish the night before is ideal. After assembling, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld. Just bake it in the morning for a delicious, hearty breakfast or brunch.
What if I don't have enough ham?
If you're short on ham, you can either reduce the amount used or substitute it with cooked chicken or turkey. Alternatively, you can add more vegetables or cheese to maintain the volume and enhance the flavor of the bake.
Can I freeze the Ham And Broccoli Bake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just be sure to cool the dish completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
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).