Preheat the oven to 450. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the milk, salt and pepper. Stir in the bread until evenly moistened, then stir in the ham, Gouda cheese, sun dried tomatoes and ¼ cup of the chives.
Butter a 9 by 12 inch baking dish and pour in the strata mixture. Sprinkle with the Cheddar cheese on top. Bake for about 20 minutes, until puffed and golden. Let cool slightly, sprinkle with the remaining chives and serve.
Cooks Note: Weve made this with and without the ham and its delicious both ways!