Strata With Ham
A hearty, cheesy baked casserole combining ham, bread, and eggs with rich flavors, perfect for brunch or family dinners, offering comforting and satisfying bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread butter on both sides of bread slices, then cut into cubes.
- Combine bread cubes, cooked diced ham, shredded Cheddar and Swiss cheeses, salt, and pepper; stir well.
- Beat eggs until foamy.
- Stir in milk.
- Add the egg and milk mixture to the bread and ham mixture; stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, uncovered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or sourdough bread instead of regular bread. You can also swap the cheeses based on your preference; gouda or mozzarella work well too. If you want to add some vegetables, sautéed spinach or bell peppers can be incorporated into the mixture. For added flavor, try mixing in some herbs like thyme or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This Strata pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You could serve it alongside Fried Tomatoes In Milk Gravy for a comforting breakfast or brunch. For drinks, consider pairing it with a light brunch cocktail or freshly brewed coffee to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
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 about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strata With Ham contains roughly 1045 calories, with 25g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (162% of the Daily Value), calcium (55% of the Daily Value), and protein (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1450mg per serving (63% 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 without refrigerating it overnight?
Yes, you can bake it immediately, but allowing it to sit overnight helps the bread absorb the egg mixture, enhancing the texture and flavor. If you're short on time, let it sit for at least 30 minutes before baking for some absorption.
What type of bread is best for making strata?
Sturdy breads like French bread, ciabatta, or even whole grain are ideal as they hold up better when soaked in the egg mixture. Avoid soft, airy breads as they may become too mushy during baking.
Can I freeze leftovers from the strata?
Yes, you can freeze strata leftovers. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).