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Ham and Cheese Strata

Ham and Cheese Strata

This Ham and Cheese Strata combines simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary, embodying the warmth of family gatherings and the ease of a slow morning. It features layers of stale bread, cooked ham, and sharp cheddar cheese soaked in a creamy custard, baked to golden perfection.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 10 servings servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 to 10 cups stale bread cubes (sourdough, French, or Italian)
  • 2 cups cooked ham, cubed
  • 2.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 8 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Method
 

  1. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Cut the bread into one-inch cubes and toast lightly if fresh.
  3. Layer half of the bread cubes in the baking dish, followed by half of the ham and half of the cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread and ham, pressing down gently.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the dish sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  8. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes until golden brown and set.
  9. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use stale bread for better absorption. Grate cheese from a block for optimal melting. Allow the strata to soak overnight for best texture.