BREAKFAST STRATA

Ingredients

• 3 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
• 2 slices crumbled cooked bacon
• 2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
• 1 1/2 cups chopped onions
• 1 1/2 cups chopped green pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/3 cup butter
• 1(8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup half-and-half cream
• 12 eggs
• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Directions

1. In a large skillet, saute the mushrooms, ham, onions, green peppers and garlic in oil until vegetables are tender. Drain and pat dry; set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and cream until smooth. Beat in eggs. Stir in the bread, cheese, salt, pepper and vegetable mixture.
3. Pour into two greased 11-in. x 7-in. x 2-in. baking dishes. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 35-40 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.