This Ham Breakfast Casserole is a warm and tasty way to start your day! With fluffy eggs, savory ham, and melted cheese, it’s a meal the whole family will love.
It’s super easy to make and perfect for any breakfast gathering. I love to enjoy it with some fresh fruit on the side—yum! You might want to make extra because it disappears fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are the base of this casserole, providing the fluffiness and binding. If you need a substitute, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan option.
Whole Milk: This adds richness to the dish. If you prefer a lighter option, 2% milk or even almond milk can work. Just be careful with non-dairy options to choose unsweetened versions.
Cubed Bread: Day-old bread holds up best. I like using sourdough for added flavor, but you can use any bread like white, whole-wheat, or even croissants for a twist!
Cooked Ham: Diced ham gives a savory touch. Substitute with cooked bacon, sausage, or even cooked vegetables for a meat-free casserole.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds creaminess. You can mix it up and use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you love. For a sharp taste, go for aged cheddar.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Getting the casserole to set just right is essential. Follow these tips:
- Whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly to avoid any clumps.
- Let the bread soak in the egg mixture for about 10 minutes before baking. This helps in achieving a fluffy texture.
- Don’t skip greasing your baking dish; it ensures easy serving later.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Oven temperatures can vary; if the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil.
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. This helps everything firm up nicely for easy slicing.
Ham Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old or slightly toasted works best)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Butter or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 45-50 minutes to bake. Overall, you can have a delicious breakfast ready in about an hour! Perfect for a leisurely weekend morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish (or round casserole dish if you prefer) and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large mixing bowl, crack in the 6 eggs. Add the 2 cups of whole milk, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s fully combined and nice and frothy.
3. Incorporate the Bread, Ham, and Cheese:
Now it’s time to add the fun parts! Toss in the 6 cups of cubed bread, 2 cups of diced ham, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Gently stir all the ingredients together until the bread is well-coated, letting it soak up the egg mixture for about 5 minutes.
4. Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Carefully pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so that it cooks up nicely. If you like, sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake it for about 45-50 minutes. It’s done when the casserole is set in the middle, and the top has a beautiful golden brown color. You can check if it’s ready by inserting a knife in the center—it should come out clean!
6. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help set everything for easy slicing. Cut into squares or wedges, serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Ham Breakfast Casserole with family and friends!
What a perfect way to start the day! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! You can use any type of bread you have on hand. Sourdough, whole grain, or even croissants work great. Just make sure it’s a bit stale or toasted to help absorb the egg mixture better.
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before. Just mix all the ingredients and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight, then bake it in the morning—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What If I Don’t Have Cooked Ham?
No problem! You can substitute the ham with cooked bacon, sausage, or even vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a meatless option. Just make sure to sauté any veggies first to remove excess moisture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or place it back in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.