Ham And Cheese Strata
A hearty baked casserole combining tender bread, fresh broccoli, savory ham, and melted Cheddar cheese, all layered and baked to perfection. This dish offers a comforting blend of flavors ideal for brunch or family gatherings, with a creamy egg custard that binds the ingredients beautifully.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove crusts from bread and cube the bread slices.
- Layer bread, broccoli, ham, and cheese in a buttered 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Beat eggs, milk, chopped onion, salt, and mustard together.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the pan.
- Sprinkle paprika and parsley flakes on top.
- Bake for 50 minutes at 325°F.
- Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use day-old bread as it absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming mushy. You can substitute the broccoli with spinach or even sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a cup of sour cream to the egg mixture. For a kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ham And Cheese Strata warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for added color. It pairs wonderfully with a side of mixed greens or a simple fruit salad for a balanced meal. This dish is perfect for brunch, alongside a refreshing beverage like a mimosa or coffee. For a heartier spread, consider serving it with the 3 Bean Dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the strata with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheese Strata contains roughly 833 calories, with 24g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1041mg per serving (45% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the strata the night before. Simply assemble it in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
Can I freeze the Ham And Cheese Strata?
If you have additional ingredients on hand, feel free to customize the recipe. You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even leftover veggies to the layers. Just make sure that any additions are pre-cooked or sautéed to ensure even cooking. This allows you to tailor the dish to your taste and make use of what you have.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
While any bread can work, a sturdy bread like sourdough or whole wheat is ideal as it holds up well against the egg mixture. Avoid overly soft breads like white sandwich bread, as they can become too soggy. If you have leftover bread, this is a great way to use it up while creating a delicious dish.
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).