Ham and Asparagus Cheese Strata







Another nice brunch/breakfast recipe that I found from Better Homes and Garden. I also like that you can prepare most of the work the night before!

Ham and Asparagus Cheese Strata (~from bhg.com)


Ingredients

·        8 ounces asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (used 1 bunch)

·        5 cups French bread cubes (used 6 cups)

·        2 cups shredded Gruyere or white cheddar cheese, (8 oz.)

·        1/2 cup chopped onion (used 1 bunch)

·        1/4 cup chopped chives or green onions (did not use the chives)

·        8 ounces cooked ham, diced (used 10 oz) (used one 10 oz package)

·        10 eggs

·        1 1/2 cups milk

Directions


1.     Bring a large pot of salted water to boiling. Add asparagus; cook 5 minutes or until bright green.

2.      In a greased 3-quart baking dish spread half the bread cubes. Top with cheese, onion, chives and half the ham and asparagus. Top with remaining bread.

3.      In a bowl whisk together four of the eggs and the milk. Evenly pour over layers in dish. Press down bread pieces into the egg milk mixture with the back of a spoon. Top with remaining ham and asparagus. Cover with plastic wrap, then chill for two hours.

4.      Bake, uncovered, in a 325 degrees F oven 30 minutes. With the back of a wooden spoon, press 6 indentations in top of strata. Pour a whole egg into each indentation. Bake 20 to 25 minutes more or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in center of strata registers 170 degrees F and eggs are set. Let stand 15 minutes.

5.      Cut into squares to serve. If desired, drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and cracked black pepper. Makes 6 to 8 servings. (I did not drizzle with olive oil)


From the Test Kitchen


Make-Ahead Tip


Prepare as directed. Cover; refrigerate up to 12 hours. To serve, preheat oven to 325 degrees F, then bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven, then press 6 indentations in top of strata. Pour a whole egg into each indentation. Bake 20 to 25 minutes more or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in center of strata registers 170 degrees F and eggs are set. Let stand 15 minutes.

Comments