Easy Ham, Egg, & Cheese Casserole

Category:Lunch & Light Meals

Delicious and easy ham, egg, and cheese casserole served in a baking dish, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

This Easy Ham, Egg, & Cheese Casserole is a tasty breakfast delight! With fluffy eggs, diced ham, and gooey cheese baked together, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying the day after a big meal.

You can whip this up quick, and trust me, it goes fast at the breakfast table! I love serving it warm with a bit of hot sauce for a little kick. You’ll be making it again and again!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Eggs: Eggs are the star ingredient here, providing richness and structure. For a lighter option, you could use egg whites. If you’re avoiding eggs, consider silken tofu blended smooth as a vegan substitute.

Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but you can use low-fat milk or even non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just be mindful of the flavor profile when choosing a non-dairy option.

Cooked Ham: Diced ham adds a hearty flavor. You can substitute cooked bacon or turkey ham if preferred. For a vegetarian version, use sautéed veggies or black beans for protein.

Cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey and rich taste. Feel free to swap in your favorite cheese or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option. Feta or goat cheese could provide a nice tang!

Mustard: While optional, mustard enhances the flavors! You could also use hot sauce for a spicy kick or leave it out if you prefer a milder dish.

How to Whisk Eggs and Milk Perfectly?

Mixing the eggs and milk well is crucial for a fluffy casserole. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Start with room-temperature eggs; they mix better.
  • Use a whisk for at least 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and frothy. This adds air, which helps with fluffiness.
  • Incorporate the salt and pepper evenly as you whisk—that helps the seasoning blend into your casserole.

Taking these steps will help you achieve a light and airy texture in your casserole. Enjoy cooking!

Easy Ham, Egg, & Cheese Casserole

Easy Ham, Egg, & Cheese Casserole

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (optional, for flavor boost)
  • 1 cup bread cubes (optional, for a more filling casserole)
  • Butter or nonstick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious casserole will take you about 10 minutes to prepare, then around 35-40 minutes to bake. So, in just about an hour, you’ll have a warm, hearty dish ready to serve for breakfast or brunch!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab an 8×8 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Egg Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 eggs and add 1 cup of milk. Then, sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and optional mustard for a little extra flavor. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and frothy.

3. Add the Good Stuff:

Stir in the diced ham and about 1 cup of the shredded cheese into your egg mixture. If you want a heartier casserole, gently fold in the bread cubes at this stage until everything is mixed well.

4. Pour and Spread:

Carefully pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it into an even layer. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that gooey, cheesy goodness!

5. Bake to Perfection:

Pop your casserole in the oven and bake it uncovered for about 35-40 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can check it by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s good to go!

6. Cool and Serve:

Once baked, let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into squares. If you like, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy!

Dig into this simple, savory, and satisfying casserole, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. Enjoy!

Can I Use Egg Substitutes in This Recipe?

Yes! If you’re looking for an egg alternative, you can use a commercial egg replacer or 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg. Keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, but it will still be delicious!

How Can I Make This Casserole Gluten-Free?

To make this casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread cubes or omit the bread altogether. You can replace it with extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and texture!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also enjoy it cold for a quick snack!

Can I Freeze This Casserole?

Absolutely! After baking and cooling, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven for best results.

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