This tasty Ham Breakfast Casserole is a perfect way to start your day! With layers of fluffy eggs, cheesy goodness, and chunks of ham, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
It’s so easy to make that I whip it up for brunch gatherings. Just mix everything together, let it bake, and enjoy the smiles around the table. Who can resist that smell? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh eggs are essential for a fluffy texture. For a lighter option, you can use egg whites or a combination of whole eggs and egg whites. I love using local farm-fresh eggs for the best flavor.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk works great, but you can also use almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free version. Just be mindful that it might alter the richness a bit.
Diced cooked ham: If you don’t have ham, cooked bacon or turkey sausage can be good substitutes. Leftover holiday ham works perfectly here, too, adding a wonderful taste!
Cheddar cheese: While cheddar is classic, you could swap it for Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. Mixing different cheeses can create a unique flavor!
Cubed bread: Day-old or stale bread is ideal since it absorbs the egg mixture better. If you have a gluten-free diet, gluten-free bread or even hash browns can be used instead.
How Can I Get My Casserole to Cook Evenly?
Cooking the casserole evenly is key for perfectly set eggs. Start by preheating the oven and greasing your baking dish well. This helps with even cooking.
- Mix the ingredients gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish for consistent cooking.
- Check for doneness at the 40-minute mark. If the center isn’t set, give it an extra 5-10 minutes, but keep an eye on the top.
Let it cool slightly before slicing. This sets the layers and makes it easier to serve!
Ham Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups cubed bread (day-old or slightly stale works best)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ham Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40 to 45 minutes to bake. You’ll need a little time to let it cool before slicing, so plan for about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes in total. Perfect for a relaxed brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This will help your casserole turn out beautifully!
2. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Make sure it’s well combined so your casserole has a nice, fluffy texture.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cubed bread, diced ham, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are coated in that delicious egg mixture.
4. Pour and Spread:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps ensure even cooking for a perfect casserole!
5. Add the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. This will give you a tasty, cheesy crust that everyone will love.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the top is golden brown. Just lovely!
7. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes slicing much easier. Believe me, patience is a virtue here!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your casserole with chopped parsley or chives if you’d like a pop of color. Serve warm with a cup of coffee or your favorite breakfast sides. Enjoy this hearty, cheesy delight!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While cubed bread works best, you can use croissants, bagels, or even tortillas. Just ensure they are a bit stale or day-old for better absorption of the egg mixture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance! Simply assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15 minutes.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes or until heated through.
