Ham Breakfast Strata: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Your Morning Table

Ham Breakfast Strata is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any morning gathering. This savory casserole, layered with bread, eggs, cheese, and, of course, delicious ham, has roots in traditional brunches and family celebrations. Originating from the Italian word “strata,” meaning layers, this dish has evolved into a beloved staple in many households, especially during holidays and special occasions.

What I love most about Ham Breakfast Strata is its incredible versatility and ease of preparation. You can whip it up the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, and simply pop it in the oven the next morning. The combination of creamy eggs, hearty ham, and gooey cheese creates a satisfying texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or just looking for a comforting breakfast option, Ham Breakfast Strata is sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious taste and convenience.

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of day-old bread (preferably sourdough or whole grain)
• 1 cup diced cooked ham
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Bread

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your strata bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown. 2. Take your day-old bread and cut it into 1-inch cubes. If your bread is fresh, you can leave it out for a few hours to dry out a bit, or you can toast the cubes lightly in the oven for about 10 minutes. This step helps the bread absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.

Sautéing the Vegetables

3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent. This will add a lovely flavor to your strata. 4. Once the vegetables are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly. This will prevent them from cooking the eggs when mixed together.

Preparing the Egg Mixture

5. In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 large eggs. Whisk them together until they are well combined and slightly frothy. This will help incorporate air into the mixture, making your strata fluffy. 6. Add the milk to the eggs and whisk until fully combined. Then, stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will be the base of your strata and will give it a rich flavor.

Assembling the Strata

7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, diced ham, and shredded cheddar cheese. Toss everything together gently to ensure that the bread is evenly coated with the ham and vegetables. 8. Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold everything together until the bread is well coated with the egg mixture. Be careful not to break the bread too much; you want to keep some texture. 9. Once everything is combined, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure the bread is submerged in the egg mixture as much as possible. If you have any leftover cheese, sprinkle it on top for an extra cheesy crust.

Baking the Strata

10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes covered, which allows the strata to set without browning too quickly. 11. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg is fully set. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean. 12. Once baked, remove the strata from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time will help it firm up a bit, making it easier to cut into squares.

Serving the Strata

13. To serve, cut the strata into squares and plate them. If you like, you can garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor. 14. This dish is perfect for brunch, and it pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Storing Leftovers

15. If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. 16. You can also freeze the strata before baking. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly

Conclusion:

In summary, this Ham Breakfast Strata is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their morning routine with a delicious and satisfying dish. The combination of savory ham, creamy eggs, and hearty bread creates a delightful texture and flavor that will leave you and your loved ones craving more. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the ham for bacon or sausage, add in your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even experiment with different cheeses to make it your own. I encourage you to give this Ham Breakfast Strata a try, whether it’s for a special occasion, a weekend brunch, or even a cozy weekday breakfast. It’s simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings. Once you’ve whipped it up, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a hearty slice of this Ham Breakfast Strata that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking! Print