Easy Strada Bread Casserole with Ham, Onions, Cheese & Eggs

Make this Easy Strada Bread Casserole with ham, onions, and cheese—a make-ahead breakfast dish perfect for holidays or weekends. Simple, delicious, and ready to bake!

The ultimate make-ahead brunch recipe that’s both delicious and effortless.

Looking for the ultimate make-ahead brunch recipe that’s both delicious and effortless? This Strada Bread Casserole is your answer! Combining crusty bread, savory ham, sweet onions, and melted cheese, this dish is a morning masterpiece. Perfect for holidays, weekends, or any day you want to impress, this casserole is packed with protein and flavor. Plus, the overnight prep means you can wake up to a gourmet breakfast that’s ready to bake. Let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe!

Why This Strada Bread Casserole Is Special

This isn’t your average breakfast casserole. A strada (or strata) is a layered dish that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Here’s what makes it stand out:

Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of crusty bread, savory ham, sweet onions, and melty cheese creates a harmonious flavor profile.
Overnight Magic: Letting the casserole rest overnight allows the bread to soak up the rich egg custard, resulting in a luxurious, custardy texture.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences with different cheeses, veggies, or proteins.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast, this dish is sure to impress.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Servings Yield: 8–10 servings

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Strada

To make this strada bread casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients:

6–8 cups day-old bread cubes (French bread, sourdough, or English muffins work best)
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk or cream
1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced (leftover holiday ham or deli ham works great)
2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack is classic, but feel free to experiment with Gruyère, gouda, or Swiss)
¼ cup sliced green onions
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

Vegetables: Spinach, roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or diced tomatoes.
Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or chives.
Spices: Garlic powder, paprika, or nutmeg for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Layer

Choose Your Bread: Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best texture. If using fresh bread, cube it and let it sit out for 1–2 hours to dry slightly.
Cube the Bread: Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. You’ll need about 6–8 cups.
Butter the Dish: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Layer the Bread: Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.

Step 2: Make the Egg Custard

Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs until smooth.
Add Milk and Seasonings: Pour in 2 cups of whole milk or cream. Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (if using), 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and any optional spices (e.g., garlic powder or nutmeg). Whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Add the Ham: Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of diced ham evenly over the bread cubes.
Layer the Cheese: Add 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese on top of the ham.
Pour the Custard: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layers, making sure all the bread is soaked. Use a spatula to press down gently, ensuring the bread absorbs the custard.
Top with Green Onions: Sprinkle ¼ cup of sliced green onions over the top.
Add Extra Cheese: Finish with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese.

Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight

Cover and Chill: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
Refrigerate: Let the casserole rest in the fridge for at least 6–8 hours (or overnight). This step is crucial for the bread to fully absorb the custard.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Let It Rest: Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
Bake Covered: Bake the casserole, covered with foil, for 30 minutes.
Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Strada

Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard better without becoming soggy.
Customize Your Add-Ins: Swap ham for bacon, sausage, or even vegetarian options like sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese combinations for unique flavors (e.g., smoked gouda, Gruyère, or feta).
Don’t Skip the Overnight Rest: This step ensures the bread soaks up the custard, creating a rich, custardy texture.
Let It Rest After Baking: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly makes it easier to slice and serve.

Creative Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
Cheese Lover’s Dream: Use a mix of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for an extra cheesy flavor.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives to the custard for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or a fruit salad for a balanced meal.
Add a Green Salad: A simple arugula or spinach salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
Top with Hot Sauce: For a spicy twist, drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the top.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat Gently: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strada Bread Casserole is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. With its make-ahead simplicity and customizable ingredients, it’s a breakfast (or brunch) game-changer. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or enjoying a cozy morning at home, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and taste the magic for yourself!