Description
This Ham, Egg & Cheese Casserole is the perfect comfort food for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to customize with your favorite cheeses and vegetables, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Leftover ham finds a delicious new life in this creamy, cheesy bake, perfect for holiday mornings or any day you crave a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups Diced Ham (Leftover baked ham works wonderfully)
- 8 large Eggs (Use fresh for the best results)
- 1 cup Milk (Can be swapped with heavy cream for a richer texture)
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Feel free to try Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile)
Optional Vegetables:
- 1 cup Bell Peppers (Substitute with spinach for a healthy touch)
- 1 medium Onion (Red onions add a nice zing)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and prevents the casserole from becoming soggy.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. This creates a smooth base for the casserole.
Step 3: Stir in the diced ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and any optional vegetables you are using. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the egg mixture.
Step 4: Pour the egg mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Greasing the dish prevents the casserole from sticking and makes serving easier.
Step 5: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 6: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving. This allows the casserole to set properly and makes it easier to cut into neat slices.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is incredibly versatile, forgiving, and satisfying. It’s perfect for using up leftover ham, easily adaptable to different dietary needs (you can use dairy-free milk and cheese), and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. The combination of savory ham, creamy eggs, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a comforting and delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley) for extra flavor and presentation.
- Pair with toast, bagels, or English muffins for a heartier breakfast or brunch.
Tips
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- To save time, prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
- If using vegetables with high water content (like zucchini or mushrooms), sauté them before adding to the casserole to prevent it from becoming watery.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-55 minutes
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg (depending on ham)
Conclusion
The Ham, Egg & Cheese Casserole is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to deliver. Its customizable nature makes it easy to tailor to your preferences, and its ease of preparation makes it a winner for busy weeknights or lazy weekend mornings.
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?
A: Absolutely! Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but you can experiment with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or any cheese that melts well and complements the ham.
Q2: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
A: Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, and asparagus are all great additions. Just be sure to sauté any vegetables with high water content before adding them to the casserole to prevent it from becoming watery.
Q3: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Q4: Can I freeze the leftover casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze individual slices of the casserole. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q5: Can I use a different type of milk?
A: Yes, you can substitute the milk with heavy cream for a richer texture or use dairy-free milk like almond or soy milk for a lactose-free option. Just note that the dairy-free milk may slightly alter the taste and texture of the casserole.
