Ham-Cheese Strata
A hearty baked casserole combining ham, cheese, and bread with savory seasonings, perfect for brunch or a comforting family meal, easily prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 4 slices of bread in an 8-inch pan and cover with cheese slices, ham, and remaining bread.
- Combine eggs, milk, onion, salt, mustard, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the bread and toppings.
- Let stand for 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour until light brown.
- Let stand a few minutes before cutting into squares. Do not cut immediately to prevent runny texture.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the egg mixture. If you don’t have sharp Cheddar, Gruyère or a mix of cheeses can work well too. Using slightly stale bread helps absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. For a twist, try incorporating ingredients from other American recipes, such as sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Ham-Cheese Strata is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a spicy mustard on the side for added zest. For a hearty breakfast option, consider serving alongside Johnny'S Chili for a filling start to the day.
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 for 30-60 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. This ensures the strata retains its texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham-Cheese Strata contains roughly 954 calories, with 23g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1593mg per serving (69% 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, preparing the strata the night before is ideal. Allowing it to sit overnight in the refrigerator helps the bread absorb the egg mixture fully, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive dish. Just remember to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old?
While day-old bread is preferred for its ability to absorb the liquid without becoming overly soggy, you can use fresh bread. If using fresh bread, consider toasting it lightly before layering to help it hold up better during baking.
What can I substitute for ham?
If you're looking for a substitute for ham, cooked bacon or sausage can be excellent options that add a different flavor profile. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, try using sautéed spinach or mushrooms in place of the meat.
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).