Ham and Cheese Strata
A savory, make-ahead breakfast casserole featuring layers of bread, ham, and melted cheese, soaked in a flavorful egg mixture. High in protein and fiber, this easy-to-prep strata can be refrigerated overnight and baked the next day, making it perfect for family breakfasts, brunches, or quick weeknight meals.
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 9 x 11 inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Aluminum foil or cooking spray
Ingredients
- 10 cups cubed bread
- 3 cups cooked ham diced
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 9 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Begin by greasing your 9 x 11-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. You can use butter, margarine, or a non-stick cooking spray. Make sure to coat the bottom and sides evenly, as this will ensure that your strata lifts out cleanly once baked. This step may seem small, but it’s key to a perfect, non-sticky finish.
- Layer the Bread Cubes: Take your cubed bread and evenly spread it across the bottom of the prepared dish. Make sure the cubes form a single, uniform layer that fills the dish without leaving large gaps. The bread acts as the base, soaking up the egg mixture and creating a soft, custardy texture once baked.
- Add the Ham: Sprinkle the cubed ham evenly over the layer of bread. You can use leftover cooked ham, freshly prepared ham, or pre-cooked store-bought ham. Distribute it evenly to ensure that every bite has a balanced amount of protein and flavor.
- Sprinkle the Cheeses: Combine your cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses and sprinkle them evenly over the bread and ham layers. This combination melts beautifully, creating a creamy, gooey texture that binds the strata together and gives it a rich, savory flavor.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, crack in all nine eggs.Add the milk, salt, dry mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper.Using a whisk, beat the mixture thoroughly until smooth and uniform. The eggs are the binding agent, while the milk keeps the custard tender and creamy. Make sure the seasoning is evenly incorporated for a balanced flavor.
- Pour the Egg Mixture Over Layers: Carefully pour the prepared egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, ham, and cheese. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread cubes if needed, ensuring they are fully soaked in the egg mixture. This step is essential for creating a soft, custardy interior.
- Cover and Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight.This resting time allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully, resulting in a tender, flavorful strata that bakes evenly.
- Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, remove the strata from the refrigerator. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the strata cooks evenly and achieves a golden, slightly crisp top.
- Bake Covered: Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Keeping it covered initially allows the strata to steam and cook gently, preventing the top from over-browning while the center sets.
- Uncover and Brown the Top: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown, slightly puffed, and set in the middle. The puffiness indicates that the eggs have fully cooked and the strata has achieved its signature fluffy texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Once baked, remove the strata from the oven and allow it to rest for 5–8 minutes. This resting period lets the custard firm slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. It also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut the strata into squares or rectangles and serve warm. Pair with fresh fruit, a simple salad, or a light sauce if desired. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or reheated in the oven or microwave for a convenient, protein-packed meal.
- Optional Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding roasted vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Substitute cheeses such as Swiss, Gouda, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. For a spicy kick, mix in a dash of hot sauce into the egg mixture before pouring over the strata.
Notes
- Use any type of bread: day-old bread, sourdough, croissants, or even sandwich rolls all work well.
- Cheese flexibility: Swap cheddar or Monterey Jack with Swiss, mozzarella, or Gouda for a different flavor.
- Ham options: Use leftover ham, freshly cooked ham, or store-bought cooked ham cubes.
- Add vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be layered in for extra nutrition.
- Spice it up: Mix in a dash of hot sauce, paprika, or chili flakes for a little kick.
- Refrigeration: Strata can be made the night before for convenience; allow the flavors to meld overnight.
- Freezing: Assemble but do not bake. Freeze in a tightly wrapped dish, thaw overnight, and bake as directed.
