Brunch Bunch?

Thought I'd post one of my favorite recipe and tutorials on how to make it, Ham and Cheese Strata. It has been making the rounds in my family for years, my mom's recipe is my favorite. Her's always was flavorful and chock full of good stuff. I decided to share this with the world, both here on my blog and I was asked to guest star on April 19th on one of my favorite blogs, http://lollychops.com/. Her blog combines all of my favorites, crafting, sewing, and cooking! She features weekly guest chef's and I am thrilled to debut on her's in 2 weeks. Here is my contribution:

Ham and Cheese StrataAn easy but “fancy” brunch dish for holidays, showers, and special occasions. A great way to use up leftover ham, or substitute with cooked sausage or bacon. My mother made this dish often for brunch and showers, it makes up ahead of time, and holds its temperature well while guest serve themselves buffet style.

10-12 slices of white or wheat bread

¾ lb. grated cheddar cheese

1 10 oz. package frozen chopped broccoli, or steamed fresh (cooked and drained)
2 cups cooked lean ham (or leftover holiday ham, cooked sausage or bacon)
6 slightly beaten eggs
3 ½ c milk
2 Tablespoon instant minced onion
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon dry mustard
Optional, dry herbs like basil or parsley

Here are the steps:

Cut 10-12 circles or flowers out of bread
with cookie cutter. Set aside

Rip up remaining scraps of bread and layer in bottom of 9x13 pan.

Combine eggs, milk, onion, salt and mustard (herbs) and stir well.

Place cheese in a layer over bread, add a layer of broccoli, then a layer of ham. Pour egg mixture over bread.

Arrange bread cutouts on top.

Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight.

Bake uncovered at 325 degrees for 55 minutes.

Let stand 10 minutes before cutting. Serves 10-12. We made this every Easter, or for baby and bridal shower brunches, you can cut shapes for the specific occasion!

Enjoy! Great reheated too!