Ham Strata(Make Ahead Main Dish)
A hearty make-ahead ham strata layered with cheese, broccoli, and ham, perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings, combining creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut 24 rounds of bread with a cutter and set aside.
- Fit scraps of bread in the bottom of a greased pan.
- Place a layer of cheese over the bread, then a layer of broccoli, then ham.
- Arrange the bread rounds on top of the mixture.
- Combine the remaining ingredients and pour over the mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake uncovered in a 325°F oven for 55 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using whole grain bread or a mix of cheeses such as Monterey Jack and Gruyere. If you prefer, you can substitute the diced ham with cooked sausage or turkey for a lighter option. To avoid sogginess, use slightly stale bread or toast the slices lightly before assembling. This dish is wonderfully versatile and can be customized with seasonal vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a side of mixed greens or a light fruit salad, making it perfect for brunch or a casual dinner. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Grilled Ham Steaks for a satisfying combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through. This strata can also be frozen before baking; simply thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Strata(Make Ahead Main Dish) contains roughly 496 calories, with 13g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 719mg per serving (31% 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 vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the ham and substitute it with additional vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms. Consider adding some black beans for protein, or use a plant-based cheese for a fully vegetarian option that retains the creamy texture.
How do I prevent the bread from getting too soggy?
To prevent sogginess, you can use slightly stale bread or toast the bread slices lightly before assembling the strata. This helps create a barrier that will hold up better against the liquid mixture. Additionally, ensure you don't oversaturate the bread with the milk mixture.
Can I prepare this strata in advance and freeze it?
Yes, you can prepare the strata in advance. Assemble it as instructed, then cover tightly and freeze before baking. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake according to the recipe instructions. This makes it a convenient option for busy days!
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).