Company Breakfast Strata

12 slices whole wheat bread

12 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, sliced or grated

1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli, cooked and drained

2 cups cooked and diced ham

SAUCE

6 eggs, lightly beaten

3½ cups milk

1 tablespoon bottled minced onion

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon dry mustard

Remove and discard the crusts from the bread. Using a biscuit cutter cut a round piece from each slice of bread, saving the “round” for the last layer of the casserole. In a 9 × 13-inch baking dish layer the casserole as follows: bread scraps, cheese, broccoli, ham, and bread rounds.

For the sauce, combine the eggs, milk, onion, salt, and dry mustard in a medium-size bowl. Pour the sauce over the casserole. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 325°. Bake for 55 minutes or until the top is lightly brown and the casserole is almost firm. Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Hint: This casserole can be made a day ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake.

YIELD: 12 TO 15 SERVINGS

Marilyn Goucher

Oxford, Georgia