Ham And Cheese Brunch Strada
A hearty brunch casserole combining layers of bread, ham, and mozzarella, baked to golden perfection. Flavored with eggs, milk, mustard, and optional broccoli and salsa, it offers a savory, cheesy experience perfect for family gatherings or weekend brunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim crust from bread slices.
- Butter a large oblong baking dish.
- Line the bottom of the dish with half of the bread slices.
- Top with half of the cheese slices, chopped ham, and optional broccoli.
- Add another layer of bread, cheese, ham, and broccoli if using.
- In a bowl, combine eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, pepper, and optional salsa.
- Beat until well blended.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread, cheese, and ham.
- Pierce the casserole 5 to 6 times with a fork to help the mixture soak in.
- Cover and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 55 minutes until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole wheat or sourdough bread instead of white. You can substitute the mozzarella with cheddar or Swiss cheese for a different taste. If you want to add some veggies, sautéed onions or bell peppers can work well. Remember to let the dish sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight to allow the bread to soak in the egg mixture for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Ham And Cheese Brunch Strada warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For a heartier brunch, consider serving alongside crispy bacon or breakfast sausage, making it a perfect centerpiece for gatherings or family brunches.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, individual servings can be reheated in the microwave for a quick breakfast.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheese Brunch Strada contains roughly 409 calories, with 11g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (167% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1757mg per serving (76% 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 this dish the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the strata the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive dish when baked.
What can I use instead of ham?
If you're looking for alternatives to ham, cooked bacon, turkey, or even sautéed vegetables can work beautifully. For a vegetarian option, consider using a mix of mushrooms and spinach to create a hearty filling.
Can I freeze the strata?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled strata before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).