Ham, Cheese, and Spinach Strata

prep time:: 15 min
total time:: 2 hr 15 minutes minimum

Makes 10 servings

Lil

ingredients

1 loaf French bread, chopped in 1 inch pieces
2 tablespoon butter
1 cup finely chopped onion
8 oz. spinach leaves, chopped
2 cups sharp cheddar, grated
3/4 cooked ham, diced
6 eggs
2 1/4 cups half and half
2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon dried basil

directions

Butter a 9x13 casserole. Scatter half the bread cubes in the casserole. Melt the butter in a large saute pan. And the onion and saute over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring often. Stir in the spinach in batches and let cook until tender, 4-5 minutes. Spoon spinach mixture over the bread in the casserole. Then sprinkle on half the cheese and all the ham. Next, add the remaining bread pieces and the rest of the cheese. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, half and half, mustard, and spices until blended. Ladle this liquid evenly over the layers in the casserole. Press down bread cubes to cover if necessary. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Heat oven to 350°. Remove plastic wrap and place on center rack in oven. Bake until puffed and golden brown, 45-55 minutes. Transfer to wire rack and allow to cool 10 minutes before serving.

notes

This strata is a fabulous make-ahead brunch dish. All the prep takes place the night before, and your guests get a hot egg dish without any more work on your part. I especially love serving it Christmas morning after opening presents.

Source: Lil