Ham And Cheese Strada
Ham and Cheese Strada is a hearty, savory baked casserole featuring layers of bread, ham, and cheese, topped with Parmesan. Perfect for brunch or family dinners, it combines creamy, cheesy flavors with a hint of onion and mustard, offering a comforting and satisfying dish everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a 3-quart baking dish (9 x 13-inch).
- Butter one side of 8 slices of bread.
- Place the buttered side down in the baking dish.
- Spread mustard on each slice.
- Top the bread with cheese slices.
- Sprinkle with minced onion or green onion.
- Place ham slices on top.
- Butter the remaining 8 slices of bread.
- Place over the ham, buttered side up.
- Beat milk, eggs, salt, and pepper together.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread in the dish.
- Pat down the bread to soak up the mixture.
- Top with Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 325°F for 1 hour, or longer if very cold when placed in the oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to enhance flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute whole grain or gluten-free bread. Ensure the bread is stale or lightly toasted to absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. Make sure to adjust the salt levels according to the saltiness of the ham and cheese used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. Consider serving alongside a side of Hill Billy Black-Eyed Peas for a hearty, comforting spread that complements the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 bake in a preheated oven at 325°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Cover with foil to retain moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheese Strada contains roughly 402 calories, with 9g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (17% of the Daily Value), and iron (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 745mg per serving (32% 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?
Yes, this dish is perfect for preparing in advance. Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures a delicious breakfast or brunch is ready for you the next day.
What can I substitute for ham?
If you want a different protein, turkey or chicken slices work well. For a vegetarian version, consider using roasted vegetables or a plant-based meat substitute. This allows you to customize the dish while keeping the essence of the original recipe.
Can I freeze the Strada?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked Strada. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed for a convenient meal 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).