HAM STRATA IN THE EATERY

Marion Pellicano Ambrose

I recently enjoyed a casual brunch at my friend Helen’s. She served the following delectable dish and everyone begged her for the recipe. It’s a wonderful breakfast or brunch casserole, but  can serve it to spice up a BBQ or simple supper!  The secret-southwest style shredded hashbrowns! Yum!

Helen’s Cheesy Ham Strata
5     eggs
3/4   cup milk
1/2   cup chives and onion cream cheese, softened

1/2   tsp. ground mustard
1/4   tsp. salt
1/8   tsp. pepper
2  cups  refrigerated southwest style shredded hashbrowns

1  cup  shredded cheddar cheese
1/4   cup diced red bell pepper
2/3   diced cooked ham

1/2   cup progresso panko crispy bread crumbs
1/4   cup parmesean or asagio cheese (1oz) 
1     Tbsp. butter, melted

1)  Grease 8 or 9 inch square baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2)  In large bowl, beat eggs, milk and cream cheese until well combined. 

3)  Stir in mustard, salt, pepper, potatoes, cheddar cheese, bell pepper and ham.

4)  Pour mixture into baking dish. Cover with foil.  Refrigerate at least four hours,  

     or overnight.

5)  Heat oven to 350. Uncover baking dish.  Bake 40 min.
   

6)  In small bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Sprinkle over casserole. 

7)  Bake 10 to 15 min longer or until set and top is golden brown.  

P.S.  Can be made with a little more ham and a little less hashbrowns if desired.