Mushroom and Cheese Strata

2 T. butter or margarine
1/2 c. chopped yellow onion
1/2 c. chopped celery
1 garlic clove, minced
6 oz. mushrooms, sliced
4 c. cubed day-old bread
2 c. grated Cheddar cheese
2 large eggs
2 c. milk
1 t. dry mustard
1/2 t. dried marjoram
1 t. salt
Freshly ground pepper

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion, celery, garlic, and mushrooms, and saute until tender, about 5 minutes. In an 8-x-11-inch baking dish lightly coated with cooking spray or oil, layer half of the bread cubes, half of the vegetable mixture, and half of the cheese. Add remaining bread and vegetable mixture in layers.

In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard, marjoram, salt, and pepper to taste. Pour mixture over all. Add remaining cheese on top. Cover and refrigerate.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bring casserole to room temperature. Bake, uncovered, until bubbly, 45 to 50 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Serves 6.

From The Big Book of Potluck, p. 177.