Strata
A hearty breakfast casserole featuring layers of bread, ham, and Swiss and Cheddar cheeses, all baked to perfection. Its savory flavors and comforting texture make it ideal for weekend brunches or family gatherings, offering a satisfying start to the day with minimal prep and overnight resting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a buttered 13 x 9-inch pan with 10 slices of bread, then add ham, cheese, and repeat with remaining bread, ham, and cheese.
- Mix eggs, milk, salt, onion salt, and dry mustard; pour the mixture over the layered bread, ham, and cheese in the pan.
- Cover and let stand overnight in the refrigerator.
- Remove from the refrigerator 10 minutes before baking. Uncover and bake for 50 to 60 minutes at 375°F.
- Take out of the oven and let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of different cheeses or adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can substitute the ham with cooked sausage or bacon for variety. If you prefer a lighter option, use whole grain bread instead of white. To enhance the dish, sprinkle some herbs like thyme or parsley on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as Lotsa Layers Salad, or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. This dish is perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast, and can be complemented with a side of crispy bacon or sausage links.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover strata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave for a minute or two, or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This dish also freezes well if wrapped tightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strata contains roughly 1042 calories, with 31g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (88% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1035mg per serving (45% 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 ham?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ham. Consider adding additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, or use a meat substitute for added protein. You could also make it a breakfast strata by incorporating ingredients like spinach and tomatoes.
How do I know when the strata is done baking?
The strata is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully cooked. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Can I use stale bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Stale bread is ideal for strata as it absorbs the egg and milk mixture better without becoming mushy. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out by toasting it lightly in the oven. This will give your strata a great texture and help it hold together.
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).