Overnight Ham and Cheese Strata

Share

Cubed bread is tossed with eggs, milk, ham, and loads of cheese before refrigerating overnight. The next morning, just pop the pan in the oven and bake! Perfect for Christmas morning!

To say I'm not a morning person would be the understatement of the century. So, in my house, breakfast isn't commonplace. Even if I am up early, the last thing I want to do is cook - much less talk to another human! On holidays, though, things are relaxed and lazy and begging for brunch.

I don't know how it is in your circle but in ours, holiday meals are typically later than normal lunch times. Say, anytime between 1pm-3pm. Which means breakfast is a must!

An overnight strata is the perfect breakfast for me because you make it the night before. First one up (I'm looking at you, husband) gets the honor of throwing it in the oven and setting the timer.

This is super cheesy, just like we like it!

Amounts below are for a very large portion - easily serving 10 people. I halved it and we still had lots leftover!

Overnight Ham & Cheese Strata

10 eggs

3 cups whole milk

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

14 cups cubed Italian bread

2 cups cubed, cooked ham

2.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, divided

3 cloves garlic, minced

Lightly coat a 9x13 pan with cooking spray and set aside.

In a (very) large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cubed bread, ham, 1.5 cups cheddar, and garlic and gently stir until well combined. Transfer to the prepared pan and top with remaining 1 cup cheddar. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

The next morning, remove the pan and let sit while you preheat the oven to 350. Bake until set, about 1 hour. 

Source: adapted from Every Day with Rachael Ray Magazine