Strata Squares
A hearty breakfast casserole with crispy bacon, hash browns, ham, mushrooms, and cheddar cheese, baked to perfection—ideal for brunch gatherings or weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a 9 x 13-inch pan and spray with Pam.
- Spread hash browns on the bottom of the pan.
- Layer crumbled bacon, chopped onions, mushrooms, cubed ham, and cubed cheddar cheese over the hash browns.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs with milk, then pour the egg mixture evenly over all the layered ingredients.
- Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake, covered, for 45 minutes at 350°F.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 25 minutes.
- Let stand a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon or swapping half of the cheese with a lower-fat alternative. If you don't have hash brown patties, you can use frozen shredded hash browns instead, pressing them into the bottom of the pan. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition, similar to options in Healthy Heroes recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These Strata Squares make a hearty breakfast or brunch option, perfect for gatherings. Serve them with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness. They also pair nicely with a spicy salsa or hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick. For more delicious brunch ideas, browse more American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice squares and place them in a microwave-safe dish; cover and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for a crispier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strata Squares contains roughly 807 calories, with 19g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (41% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 991mg per serving (43% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the strata the night before by assembling all the ingredients, covering it with foil, and refrigerating overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy breakfast option in the morning.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a bacon substitute, try using sautéed mushrooms or cooked sausage for a different flavor. You can also use plant-based bacon alternatives for a vegetarian option that still provides a savory depth to the dish.
Can I freeze the Strata Squares?
Yes, you can freeze the strata before baking. Assemble the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the baking instructions as usual.
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).