Ham Asparagus Strata: Delicious Recipe & Easy Instructions

Ham Asparagus Strata: Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy breakfast or brunch dish! Imagine waking up to the savory aroma of baked ham, tender asparagus, and a cheesy, custardy base. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience.

Strata, derived from the Italian word for “layers,” is a classic casserole that has graced breakfast tables for generations. It’s a brilliant way to use up leftover bread and transform simple ingredients into something truly special. While variations abound, the combination of ham and asparagus elevates this dish to a new level of sophistication.

What makes this ham asparagus strata so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the slight crunch of the bread, the tenderness of the asparagus, and the creamy smoothness of the egg custard. The salty ham complements the fresh, slightly grassy flavor of the asparagus beautifully. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! You can assemble it the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning, making it ideal for busy weekends or holiday gatherings. Trust me, once you try this ham asparagus strata, it will become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped cooked ham
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 6 slices day-old bread, crusts removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparing the Asparagus and Ham:

Okay, let’s get started! First, we need to prep our asparagus and ham. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of our strata. Don’t skip it!

1. Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Immediately transfer the asparagus to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This will help retain its vibrant color and prevent it from becoming mushy. Drain well and set aside. I like to use a slotted spoon for this, it makes it easier to transfer the asparagus quickly.
2. Sauté the Onion: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. We want the onion to be nice and sweet, so don’t rush this step.
3. Combine Asparagus, Onion, and Ham: In a medium bowl, combine the blanched asparagus, sautéed onion, and chopped ham. Toss gently to combine. This mixture will be layered into our strata, adding a wonderful savory element.

Making the Custard:

Now, let’s move on to the custard. This is what binds everything together and gives the strata its creamy, rich texture. It’s super easy, I promise!

1. Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that complements the other flavors beautifully.
2. Taste and Adjust: Give the custard a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper, depending on your preference. Remember, the ham is already salty, so be careful not to over-season.

Assembling the Strata:

This is where the magic happens! We’re going to layer all of our ingredients together to create a beautiful and delicious strata. It’s like building a savory bread pudding, and it’s so satisfying.

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the strata from sticking and make it easier to serve. I like to use cooking spray, but you can also use butter or oil.
2. Layer the Bread: Arrange half of the bread cubes in a single layer in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Try to distribute them evenly.
3. Add Asparagus Mixture: Sprinkle half of the asparagus, onion, and ham mixture over the bread cubes.
4. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the shredded Gruyere cheese over the asparagus mixture.
5. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining bread cubes, asparagus mixture, and 1/2 cup of the Gruyere cheese.
6. Pour the Custard: Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and vegetable layers. Make sure the bread is well saturated. Gently press down on the bread with a spatula to help it absorb the custard.
7. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Gruyere cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the strata. This will create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
8. Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard and the flavors to meld together. Don’t skip this step! It makes a huge difference in the final result.

Baking the Strata:

Finally, it’s time to bake our strata! The aroma that will fill your kitchen is simply divine. Get ready for a delicious and comforting meal.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the Strata: Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and bake the strata for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
3. Let it Rest: Let the strata rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit more and makes it easier to slice.

Serving Suggestions:

This Ham and Asparagus Strata is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even more special:

• Serve with a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect complement to the richness of the strata.
• Add a Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy coolness that balances the savory flavors.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh chives, parsley, or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve for Brunch or Dinner: This strata is perfect for a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize this recipe? Here are a few tips and variations to try:

• Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to substitute other vegetables for the asparagus, such as broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Try Different Cheeses: Gruyere cheese is classic, but you can also use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese.
• Add Some Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the custard for a little kick.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the ham for a vegetarian version. You can add more vegetables or use a vegetarian sausage substitute.
• Use Different Bread: You can use different types of bread, such as sourdough, challah, or brioche. Just make sure it’s day-old so it can absorb the custard properly.
• Prepare Ahead: This strata can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover strata can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Ham and Asparagus Strata as much as I do! It’s a comforting, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Ham and Asparagus Strata isn’t just another brunch recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen, a comforting hug on a plate, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast or brunch game. The combination of savory ham, tender asparagus, and that creamy, cheesy custard is simply divine. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to savor every single bite.

But what makes this strata truly special is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyere would add a nutty depth, while a sharp cheddar would give it a bolder kick. You could even throw in some crumbled goat cheese for a tangy twist. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the vegetables too. If asparagus isn’t your thing (though I highly recommend giving it a try!), broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, or even some sun-dried tomatoes would work beautifully.

For serving, I love to keep it simple. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the richness of the strata. A side of fresh fruit, like berries or melon, would also be a delightful addition. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs would add a touch of elegance. This ham asparagus strata is also fantastic served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for potlucks or picnics. You can even prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning, saving you precious time and effort.

Beyond the classic brunch setting, this strata makes a surprisingly satisfying light dinner. Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread and a glass of crisp white wine for a truly enjoyable meal. And don’t forget about leftovers! They’re just as delicious reheated, making this recipe a practical and delicious choice for busy weeknights.

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch for friends, feeding a hungry family, or simply treating yourself to something special, this Ham and Asparagus Strata is sure to be a hit.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. And most importantly, I want to hear all about it! Please, please, please come back and leave a comment below, letting me know how it turned out. Did you make any substitutions? Did you add any special touches? I’m always eager to learn from your experiences and see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Share your photos on social media and tag me – I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy cooking, and bon appétit! I hope this becomes a staple in your recipe collection, just like it is in mine. I am sure you will love this ham asparagus strata.