CHEESE STRATA WITH PROSCIUTTO, BASIL AND SPINACH

CHEESE STRATA WITH PROSCIUTTO, BASIL AND SPINACH image

Yield Serves 8

Number Of Ingredients 11

3 1/2 teaspoons unsalted butter
16 slices firm white sliced bread, crusts removed
8 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto
8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
4 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
1/4 cup finely minced scallions, white and green parts
4 ounces fresh baby spinach
1/2 cup finely julienned fresh basil
5 extra large eggs
2 cups half and half
1/2 teaspoon sriracha or hot sauce

Steps:

Butter a 12 X 7 glass or ceramic dish with 1/2 tablespoon of the butter. Cover the bottom with 6 slices of bread, plus 1 slice cut in half to fill the spaces. Evenly cover the bread with half the prosciutto. Sprinkle with half of the feta, provolone, scallions, spinach and basil. Repeat to make a second layer. Cut the remaining 2 bread slices into 1/2 inch cubes; scatter over the top. Beat together the eggs, half and half, and hot sauce. Pour over the strata; press down firmly with a spatula. Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons butter and drizzle over the top. Cover; refrigerate 5 hours or overnight. Preheat the oven to 375F. Uncover and bake 1 hour, until golden.