Ham And Fruit Strata
A savory ham and fruit strata with cheese and nutmeg, layered and baked until golden, perfect for brunch or a special breakfast treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In an 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish, layer bread, ham, chopped pears, and shredded cheese.
- Combine eggs, milk, and nutmeg in a bowl and pour evenly into the dish.
- Cover and chill for 4 to 24 hours.
- Bake, uncovered, at 325°F for 45 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden.
- Cool for 10 minutes before cutting.
- Garnish with additional pears before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or sourdough bread instead of firm bread. You can also substitute the ham with cooked bacon or sausage for a different taste profile. If you want extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream to the egg mixture. Feel free to experiment with other fruits like peaches or apples to complement the pears. This dish pairs beautifully with Pork And Scalloped Potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham and fruit strata warm, garnished with additional chopped pears for a fresh touch. This dish works well for brunch alongside a light salad or fresh fruit. Pair it with a creamy beverage like a mimosa or a cup of coffee for a delightful meal. It also makes a great addition to any breakfast spread, complementing other dishes like Clam Chowder From Rhode Island.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Fruit Strata contains roughly 976 calories, with 16g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 894mg per serving (39% 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 the night before?
Yes, this dish is perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can assemble it the night before and let it chill in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
While shredded cheese is versatile, a mild cheddar or Swiss cheese is recommended for this dish. Both melt well and complement the flavors of the ham and fruit. If you're feeling adventurous, try a smoked cheese for an added depth of flavor or a pepper jack for a bit of heat.
Can I use different fruits in the strata?
Absolutely! While pears are delicious, you can substitute or add other fruits such as diced peaches, apples, or even berries. Just ensure the fruits are well-drained if using canned varieties to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the strata.
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).