Castle Families Recipe Collection
Mary Ann Pruett Laun's Christmas Strata

1 loaf white bread, crusts removed
1/4 lb. butter, melted (I usually use less)
1 1/2 lb. sharp cheddar cheese, grated
3 1/2 cups milk
1 t. dry mustard
5 eggs
(1 small can chopped green chiles, optional)
(Note: be creative! I've used mushrooms and jalapeno peppers for a spicy dish!)

Butter bread and cut into 1 1/2 inch squares. Grease 9x13x2 inch pan.
Layer bread, cheese, (chiles, optional) bread, cheese.
Blend eggs, milk, and mustard in a blender.
Pour over bread and cheese mixture.
Press down each section with a spoon so that the bread is well soaked.
Refrigerate 1-3 days.
When ready to bake, set cassarole in a pan of water.
Bake in a 350 degree oven 45 minutes to one hour or until brown and bubbly.
DO NOT OPEN OVEN.
Serve immediately. Serves 10-12 for brunch.

For a spicy change, I use 1/2 small can of jalapeno peppers.
Blend with egg, milk and mustard in blender...S P I C Y and G O O D!

Recipe Contributed by Mary Ann Laun