Holiday Strada
A hearty breakfast casserole layered with bread, ham or sausage, cheese, peppers, and green onions, baked to perfection—ideal for holiday brunches and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange bread slices in overlapping rows in the bottom of a 3-quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle chopped baked ham or cooked sausage, grated cheese, dried peppers, and sliced green onions over the bread.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs until well combined; add milk, dry mustard, pepper, and paprika, and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and toppings.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and bake the casserole for 40 to 45 minutes until set and golden.
- Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, optionally with white or cheese sauce if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using sourdough or whole grain bread instead of regular white bread. You can substitute the ham with cooked bacon or turkey sausage for a different twist. If you don't have dry mustard, Dijon mustard can work in a pinch. Customize the veggies by adding spinach or mushrooms to the mix for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Holiday Strada warm for breakfast or brunch, and it pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of yogurt. For a heartier meal, consider alongside a green salad or even a small serving of Aunt Donna'S Hamburger Beans for a comforting combination. Drizzle with a white or cheese sauce for an extra indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Holiday Strada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. This dish also freezes well; just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Strada contains roughly 465 calories, with 18g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (43% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 590mg per serving (26% 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 making ahead! Prepare it the night before and refrigerate, allowing the flavors to meld. Just bake it in the morning for a delicious breakfast or brunch option, saving you time on busy days.
What types of cheese work best in this recipe?
While sharp Cheddar is wonderful, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a mix of cheeses for more depth of flavor. Just ensure they melt well for the best texture.
Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
Absolutely! Non-dairy alternatives like almond, soy, or oat milk can be used in place of regular milk. Just choose an unsweetened variety to maintain the savory flavor of the 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).