Lunch & Dinner

Croque Monsieur Strata Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Name: Croque Monsieur Strata Recipe – Great Meal Recipes
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 25 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 8 large eggs; 2 cups of whole milk; 6 cups of 1-inch cubes of rustic French bread; 2 cups of diced, fully cooked smoked ham; 2 cups of shredded Gruyère cheese; 1/3 cup of unsalted butter or your favorite margarine; 3/4 cup of finely chopped red onion; 1 clove of garlic, minced; 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon of sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon of ground mustard powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons of freshly chopped thyme leaves; 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika; 2 tablespoons of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes; Freshly chopped chives for garnish, if desired

Barbara Brito March 19, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 5 hrs 25 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Let’s set the scene. Imagine gathering friends and family around a table, the scent of something delicious wafts through the air, enticing everyone to come closer. Croque monsieur strata is not just a dish; it’s an experience, one best enjoyed with a colorful side salad or a refreshing beverage.

You might want to pair this rich, cheesy delight with a simple mixed greens salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The crunch of fresh lettuce and the tang of the dressing creates a lovely balance with the creamy strata.

Alternatively, a side of roasted vegetables can enhance the flavors, creating a cozy, home-cooked meal that warms the soul. A glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling lemonade can also elevate the experience, making you feel like you’re dining in a quaint European café.

What is Croque Monsieur Strata?

At its core, croque monsieur strata takes the beloved French sandwich and transforms it into a baked casserole. Layers of chunky bread absorb a custard made from eggs and milk. This is combined with ham and cheese, creating a dish that’s creamy and indulgent.

The baking process melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in a dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Why This Recipe Works

The layered structure of a strata allows the bread to soak up the rich egg base. This ensures that each bite is a burst of flavor.

Using a mix of smoked ham and Gruyère cheese adds complexity. The herbs and spices bring everything together, preventing the dish from becoming overly rich.

Additionally, croque monsieur strata can be prepared the night before. You simply let the bread absorb the custard in the refrigerator. This not only maximizes flavor but also provides convenience.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Creating this masterpiece requires some specific ingredients:

8 large eggs
2 cups of whole milk
6 cups of 1-inch cubes of rustic French bread
2 cups of diced, fully cooked smoked ham
2 cups of shredded Gruyère cheese (about 8 ounces)
1/3 cup of unsalted butter or your favorite margarine
3/4 cup of finely chopped red onion
1 clove of garlic, minced
1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of sea salt
1/2 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon of ground mustard powder
1 1/2 teaspoons of freshly chopped thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
2 tablespoons of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
Freshly chopped chives for garnish, if desired

How to Make Croque Monsieur Strata

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Begin by slicing your rustic French bread into 1-inch cubes. This sturdy bread is the backbone of your strata, so don’t skimp on quality.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about three to four minutes. Make sure to stir frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eight large eggs together with the whole milk, sea salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, ground mustard powder, and smoked paprika. This is your custard base.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the bowl with the egg custard. Stir in the diced ham, sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, and half of the shredded Gruyère cheese.

Step 5: Layer the Bread

In a greased 3-quart baking dish, create a layer of the bread cubes. Pour half the egg mixture over the top.

Let it soak for a few minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. Repeat with another layer of bread, followed by the remaining egg mixture. Finish off with the remaining Gruyère cheese on top.

Step 6: Refrigerate

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it sit overnight, or at least for 30 minutes if you’re short on time. This step is vital for flavor development.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the strata for 45-50 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and set in the center.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top for color. Serve warm and watch everyone dig in!

Tips for Success

Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread will absorb the custard better, leading to a creamier texture.
Experiment with Cheeses: Gruyère is fantastic, but feel free to mix in cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss for variation.
Make it Vegetarian: Swap out the ham for sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to throw in some bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Check for Doneness: If it browns too quickly, cover with foil to prevent burning while it finishes baking.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare, believe me), allow them to cool completely. Transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days.

You can reheat slices in the microwave or the oven. Just pop it in until warmed through.

How Would I Recommend Serving Croque Monsieur Strata?

With a Side Salad: A fresh salad adds a crunchy counterpart to the creamy strata.
As a Breakfast Casserole: Perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts.
Pair with Fresh Fruits: Serve alongside some seasonal fruits for a balanced meal.
Top with Poached Eggs: For an upscale touch, add a poached egg on top of each serving.

Alternative Ingredients

If you can’t find the exact ingredients, worry not! Here are some substitutes:

Bread: Use whole wheat or sourdough if you can’t find rustic French bread.
Ham: Turkey or chicken breast deli meat can be used if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Gruyère Cheese: Sharp cheddar or a mixed cheese blend works as a good substitute.
Thyme: If fresh thyme is unavailable, dried thyme will do just fine.

Conclusion

Croque monsieur strata is a dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. With its layers of delicious flavors and the option to prepare in advance, it fits seamlessly into busy schedules. You’ll find that both family and friends will eagerly request seconds, if not thirds.

So, whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy night in, this delightful dish is ready to impress. Embrace the creativity of cooking, and let croque monsieur strata be your next kitchen triumph. Happy cooking!

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Croque Monsieur Strata Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Author: Barbara Brito Cuisine: French Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 25 mins Cook Time 5 hrs Total Time 5 hrs 25 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 271 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Croque monsieur strata is a wonderful twist on the classic French croque monsieur sandwich. It's a savory baked casserole that combines layers of bread, cheese, and ham, soaked in a rich egg mixture.

It’s perfect for brunch or a leisurely dinner. On busy days when time is tight, this dish can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy precious moments with loved ones.

This recipe has become a favorite in my household. On days when I want to impress, but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen, croque monsieur strata comes to the rescue.

It’s comforting, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar.