Good breakfasts bring families and friends together. I remember a brisk Sunday morning when I made a favorite dish: ham and cheese breakfast casserole. The kitchen filled with a yummy smell, and my family came to see.
With bread, eggs, and leftover ham, it was clear it would be a hit. The melted cheddar and warm casserole made it comforting. It’s easy to see why it’s been shared over 180,000 times online!
Whether you have leftover ham or want a tasty brunch, this casserole is perfect. It’s a delicious way to start your day.
Introduction to Breakfast Casserole
Breakfast casseroles are loved by many in America. They are easy to make and can be changed to fit what you like. They are great for busy mornings or big events.
They are also super convenient. You just need a few things like bread, eggs, and your favorite meats. Then, you can make a delicious meal the night before. In the morning, just bake it and everyone will love it.
Imagine starting your day with the smell of a breakfast casserole. It’s a treat for your family and friends. I’m excited to share tips and ideas for making your brunch a success.
What Makes a Great Breakfast Casserole?
A great breakfast casserole makes mornings special. It mixes flavors in a tasty way. Ingredients like fresh eggs, ham, and cheese make it unforgettable.
It’s all about the right mix. The casserole should be soft inside and crispy outside.
When making this dish, I keep a few things in mind:
- Use fresh, whole ingredients.
- Think about flavors that go well together.
- Make sure it tastes good and feels right in your mouth.
A good casserole has the right mix of ingredients. Eggs, ham, and cheese make a great base. Adding Dijon mustard makes it even better.
Letting it sit overnight makes it even tastier. This way, all the flavors blend well. Using lots of cheddar and Swiss cheese makes it rich and comforting.
These things make a breakfast casserole stand out. It tastes great and is good for you. In the kitchen, I aim for simplicity and creativity. This way, my casserole becomes a favorite for everyone.
Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
When I make a breakfast casserole with ham and cheese, I pick the best ingredients. This mix makes a tasty meal. It uses big parts to give great flavors and textures.
Whether I use leftovers or fresh stuff, the right mix makes the casserole special.
Essential Ingredients
- 10 large eggs
- 3 cups of whole milk (alternative milk options like 2% or skim can work)
- 8 cups of cubed bread (fluffy types such as brioche recommended)
- ½ lb of diced country ham, which accounts for 75% of the total weight of ingredients
- 1 ½ cups of shredded Cheddar cheese
- 8 small tomatoes or 16 cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard for adding flavor
Optional Add-Ins
I like to add different things to my casserole. Sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach make it healthier. Changing the cheese to Monterey Jack or Swiss can make it taste even better.
This way, I can make a casserole that I really like. It’s perfect for starting my day.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Making a ham and cheese breakfast casserole is easy and fun. It’s great for family meals or weekend mornings. It takes about one hour to prepare and cook.
Preparation Time and Cooking Time
Preparing the casserole takes 15 minutes. Bake it at 350°F for 40 minutes. Cover it with foil for the first 20 minutes.
Then, remove the foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. It serves 6 to 8 people, perfect for brunch.
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering your ingredients:
- 1-pound loaf of artisan bread, cut into 8-12 slices
- 12 large whole eggs
- 2 cups of cooked diced ham
- 8 ounces of shredded cheddar, Gruyère, or Swiss cheese
- Optional: caramelized onions (takes approximately 30 minutes) or sautéed onions for a quicker alternative
- Milk or half-and-half as a substitute for cream
Whisk the eggs and mix in milk or half-and-half. Layer the bread, ham, and cheese in the dish. Soak each layer with the egg mixture.
Make sure the bread soaks well for great flavor. Add cheese on top and onions if you like.
Put the casserole in the oven. Watch as it becomes a cheesy delight. Enjoy the flavors that come together during baking.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Artisan Bread | 1 pound (8-12 slices) |
| Whole Eggs | 12 large |
| Cooked Diced Ham | 2 cups |
| Shredded Cheese | 8 ounces (Cheddar, Gruyère, or Swiss) |
| Onions | Caramelized or Sautéed (to taste) |
| Milk or Half-and-Half | as needed |
Benefits of a Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole
Making a make-ahead breakfast casserole saves a lot of time on busy mornings. Imagine waking up to a delicious meal ready to be reheated and served. A breakfast casserole with ham is great for big appetites. It’s also easy to make and stays good in the fridge.
Serving a make-ahead breakfast casserole at gatherings or holidays is a great way to impress guests. It makes 8 to 10 servings, perfect for big groups. You can also change it up to fit different tastes. Try using bacon instead of ham or different cheeses for everyone’s favorite flavors.
This recipe is quick to prepare, just 15 minutes. It cooks in about 45 to 55 minutes at 350°F. I love making it ahead of time. Then, I can reheat it the next morning for a hot, comforting breakfast without rushing.
Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Variations
Trying out different ham and cheese breakfast casseroles can make meals more exciting. You can mix and match cheeses and meats to make a cheesy bake that everyone will love. Let’s look at some tasty ideas.
Differently Cheesy Variations
The cheese you pick can change how the casserole tastes. Here are some great cheese choices for your breakfast casserole:
- Cheddar: A classic choice, cheddar cheese has a sharp and bold taste. A 16-ounce block is perfect for this dish.
- Mozzarella: Mozzarella cheese makes the casserole creamy and mild.
- Gouda: Gouda cheese adds a rich, smoky flavor to your casserole.
- Feta: Crumbled feta cheese gives a tangy twist, making it more Mediterranean.
- Swiss: Swiss cheese has a nutty taste and melts well in this mix.
Meat Options for the Casserole
While ham is great, you can also try other meats in your casserole:
- Bacon: Bacon adds a savory crunch. Cook it first and mix it in.
- Sausage: Ground sausage brings a hearty flavor that goes well with cheese.
- Vegetarian Option: For a lighter choice, add sautéed veggies and cheese for a meatless dish.
Changing the cheese and meat makes every casserole special. Feel free to try different mixes to find what you like best.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Breakfast Casserole
Making a tasty breakfast casserole is all about the bread and getting the top crispy. I’ve got some great tips to help you make a casserole that’s sure to please.
Choosing the Right Bread
The bread you pick can change how your casserole tastes and feels. Look for light, fluffy breads that soak up the egg mix without getting too soggy. Here are some top picks:
- Challah: Its dense crumb soaks up the custard well and stays firm.
- Buttertop Bread: Soft and tasty, it’s great with ham and cheese.
- Sourdough: Its tangy taste adds depth to your casserole.
- French Bread: It bakes up nicely, making your casserole better.
Choose a bread that’s fluffy inside and stays firm when baked. This way, your casserole won’t be soggy.
How to Get a Crispy Top Layer
A crispy top makes your casserole even better. Try using the broiler for a few minutes to get it just right. Here’s how to get that perfect crispy top:
- Sprinkle shredded cheese, like Cabot Cheddar, on top in the last 10 minutes for a gooey finish.
- Add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for extra crunch.
- Watch it closely to avoid burning; broiling needs careful watching.
Follow these tips to make a breakfast casserole that’s irresistible. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to make breakfast casserole special. I like to add fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top. It makes the dish look and taste better.
Adding fresh fruits is a great idea. Try melon, berries, or a fruit salad. It adds a nice contrast and freshness.
For a bit of spice, serve salsa or your favorite sauce. It’s tasty and lets guests add their own touch.
Here are some top breakfast ideas to go with your casserole:
- Yogurt bowls with granola and honey
- Cinnamon rolls or homemade biscuits
- Melon prosciutto salad for a mix of sweet and savory
- Quick breads like banana or zucchini
- Meat and cheese boards for a filling choice
- Breakfast pastries like muffins or scones
- Pancakes or waffles with syrup or fruit
- Classic toast with butter or jam
- Crispy potato hash for a cozy side
- Bacon or sausage for extra protein
- Eggs in different ways for more options
Make sides ahead of time to save morning rush. Try yogurt parfaits or muffins the day before. Adding these ideas to your casserole will wow your guests and make meals special.
Storing and Reheating Your Breakfast Casserole
Storing breakfast casserole right is important. After making your ham and cheese casserole, let it cool for 10 minutes. This stops moisture from making it soggy.
Once it’s cool, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. It will stay tasty and fresh.
Freezing is also a great option. You can freeze it unbaked for 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
If you want to bake it straight from frozen, use 350°F oven. It will take about an hour. Make sure it’s hot inside, at least 165°F.
For reheating, follow these tips. Use the microwave for single servings. For the whole casserole, bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes. This keeps it moist and flavorful.
Nutritional Information
Knowing what’s in your breakfast casserole is key. A slice of ham and cheese casserole has this nutrition:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 239 kcal | – |
| Protein | 13g | 26% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | Less than 1% |
| Fat | 20g | 31% |
| Saturated Fat | 10g | 63% |
| Cholesterol | 221mg | 74% |
| Sodium | 455mg | 20% |
| Potassium | 160mg | 5% |
| Vitamin A | 703IU | 14% |
| Calcium | 82mg | 8% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
This breakfast casserole has 239 calories per slice. It’s great for a filling breakfast without too many carbs. With just 1g of carbs, it’s good for low-carb diets. It also has lots of protein and fats.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
When I eat my Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole, I feel happy. It’s not just for breakfast. It’s great for family and friends too.
This dish is easy to make and very tasty. It’s perfect for any time, whether I’m alone or with others. It’s great for any occasion.
Every bite is full of flavor. The ham is tender, and the cheese is melted just right. I like to try new things, like different cheeses or veggies. It’s fun to make it my own.
If you haven’t tried this casserole, you should. It’s a favorite for many reasons.
This casserole is more than food. It’s about making memories. The smell in the kitchen and sharing it with others is special. It’s a time to enjoy good food and be together.
So, go ahead and make it your own. Your family will love it!
