Ham & Asparagus Strata Recipe for a Spring Brunch
Servings: 8
Total Time: 1 hour (including resting time)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Description
This savory Ham & Asparagus Strata is the perfect dish to serve at a spring brunch, combining fresh asparagus, hearty ham, and gooey Swiss cheese for a satisfying and flavorful breakfast casserole. The combination of ingredients makes it a crowd-pleaser that is easy to prepare and always disappears quickly. The best part? You can prepare it the night before and let it rest in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the delicious egg mixture for an even more tender, flavorful result when baked the next morning. Though it can also be made in a pinch by letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, the overnight rest is definitely recommended for a more decadent final dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pepperidge Farm stuffing | 4 cups |
| Swiss cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces | 1 1/2 cups |
| Cooked ham, diced | 1 1/2 cups |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Large eggs | 5 |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 276.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 190mg |
| Sodium | 297.7mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 7.5g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.8g |
| Sugars | 1.2g |
| Protein | 21.2g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Base:
Begin by greasing a 3-quart shallow baking dish with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy release once baked. Then, layer the bottom of the dish with 4 cups of Pepperidge Farm stuffing. Evenly distribute the shredded Swiss cheese, diced cooked ham, and chopped asparagus over the stuffing, making sure the ingredients are spread out in a uniform layer. -
Make the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 5 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. The mustard adds a subtle tanginess that perfectly complements the richness of the cheese and ham. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and all the ingredients are well combined. -
Combine and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the stuffing mixture in the baking dish. Use a spoon or your hands to gently press down the stuffing to ensure that it is thoroughly moistened by the egg mixture. This is an important step, as the bread needs to soak up the liquid to bake evenly. -
Rest the Dish:
Once the strata is assembled, it’s best to cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to rest overnight. The extended resting time allows the stuffing to absorb the egg mixture fully, resulting in a moist and tender strata. If you’re in a rush, however, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the strata from the refrigerator if it’s been resting overnight. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the strata is golden on top and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If you like a slightly crispier top, you can bake for an additional 5 minutes, but be sure to check that it’s fully cooked through. -
Serve:
Once baked, let the Ham & Asparagus Strata cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice it into 8 portions and enjoy while it’s warm. This strata pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete brunch spread.
Tips for Success
- Make it Ahead: The key to this dish is the overnight resting time, so don’t skip it if you can. The longer the strata sits, the better the flavor and texture will be, as the bread absorbs the liquid and becomes more tender.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and substitute with additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach.
- Cheese Swap: If Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it out for another type of cheese such as cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, but all work wonderfully in this recipe.
Recipe Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
- Freezing: While this strata is best served fresh, it can also be frozen. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
Conclusion
This Ham & Asparagus Strata is an elegant yet easy dish that will quickly become a favorite for brunches, holiday gatherings, or any morning when you want a comforting, savory meal. The creamy texture of the eggs, the richness of the ham, and the freshness of the asparagus come together beautifully in this dish. Whether you’re preparing it the night before or need to get it on the table in under an hour, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.
