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
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.
