Asparagus Cheese Strata - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 lb. fresh asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
3 Tbsp. butter or margarine, melted
1 loaf (1 lb.) sliced bread, crusts removed
3/4 c. shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
2 c. cubed, fully cooked ham
6 eggs
3 c. milk
2 tsp. dried minced onion
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. dry mustard

Preparation

In a saucepan cover asparagus with water, cover and cook until tender but still firm.
Drain and set aside.
Lightly brush butter over one side of bread slices.
Place 1/2 of bread, buttered side up, in a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle with 1/2 cup cheese.
Layer with asparagus and ham.
Cover with remaining bread, buttered side up.
In a bowl, lightly beat eggs; add milk, onion, salt and mustard.
Pour over bread.
Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Bake, uncovered, at 325\u00b0 for 50 minutes.
Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
Return to oven for 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Yields 10 to 12 servings.