Hello, welcome to my beautiful world! My name is Prisca Bush. I am a food lover; I enjoy writing about my favorite recipes.
Introduction
There’s something magical about a breakfast casserole. I still remember the first time I made a Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe for a family brunch. I wanted something warm, hearty, and effortless—a dish that could feed a crowd without requiring me to scramble around in the kitchen for hours. When I pulled it out of the oven, the golden, bubbly cheese and fluffy egg mixture immediately filled the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. My family devoured it, asking for seconds before I even had a chance to sit down. Since then, this casserole has become my go-to recipe for weekend mornings, holiday brunches, and even weeknight breakfasts when I want something comforting but simple.
This Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe is more than just eggs and bread—it’s a perfect combination of fluffy eggs, savory ham, melty cheese, and soft bread that soaks up all the flavors. It’s easy to make, versatile, and can be prepared ahead of time, which makes it a lifesaver for busy mornings or hosting guests. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing for a potluck, this Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe will impress everyone.
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Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need for a delicious, golden-baked Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe. Quantities are for a 9×13-inch baking dish, serving about 8–10 people.
Base Ingredients
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old white, whole wheat, or brioche)
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds subtle tang)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- ½ cup chopped onions
- ½ cup chopped spinach
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- Fresh herbs: parsley, chives, or thyme
Optional Toppings
- Extra shredded cheese for the top
- Hot sauce or ketchup for serving
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How to Prepare Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
This Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe is easy to assemble. Follow these steps for the best results.
1. Preheat the Oven and Prep the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Prepare the Bread
Cube your day-old bread into roughly 1-inch pieces. Day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy.
Place half of the bread cubes in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
3. Layer Ham and Cheese
Sprinkle half of the diced ham over the bread. Then add half of the shredded cheese.
Repeat with the remaining bread, ham, and cheese, creating a layered effect. If using vegetables or herbs, sprinkle them between layers or on top.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
- Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder
Whisk until fully combined.
5. Pour the Custard
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered bread, ham, and cheese. Press lightly with a spatula to ensure the bread soaks up the custard evenly.
6. Optional Toppings
Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish. Add a few herbs or a pinch of paprika for extra flavor and color.
7. Bake the Casserole
Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, until:
- The casserole is puffed and golden on top
- The eggs are fully set (center should not jiggle)
- Cheese is melted and bubbly
If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
8. Rest Before Serving
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before cutting. This allows it to set and makes it easier to serve.
How to Serve Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
One of the best things about this Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe is how versatile it is when it comes to serving.
For Breakfast or Brunch
Serve with:
- Fresh fruit or fruit salad
- Toast or buttery croissants
- Coffee, tea, or fresh juice
For Lunch
Pair with:
- A side salad
- Soup (tomato basil or potato leek work well)
- Roasted vegetables
For Dinner
Yes, breakfast casserole works for dinner too! Pair with:
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Sautéed spinach or green beans
- Light soup or chili
Optional Toppings
- Hot sauce or ketchup
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives
- Extra shredded cheese
Tips for the Best Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
1. Use Day-Old Bread
Day-old bread absorbs the egg mixture without turning soggy. Brioche or challah adds richness.
2. Don’t Skip the Custard
The egg mixture is what holds the casserole together. Whisk it thoroughly for a smooth, creamy texture.
3. Season Generously
Bread and ham are mild; the seasoning ensures each bite is flavorful.
4. Make-Ahead Option
Assemble the casserole the night before. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Bake in the morning for a no-stress brunch.
5. Avoid Overbaking
Take it out when the center is just set. Overbaking can make the casserole dry and rubbery.
6. Add Vegetables for Nutrition
Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor, color, and nutrients.
7. Cheese Choices
Cheddar is classic, but Gruyère, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese can add different flavors.
Variations
This Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some popular variations:
1. Southwestern Casserole
Add:
- Diced green chilies
- Pepper jack cheese
- Black beans or corn
Serve with salsa or avocado.
2. Veggie Lover’s Version
Skip the ham and add:
- Spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers
- Feta or goat cheese
3. Bacon & Ham Casserole
For extra indulgence, add crumbled cooked bacon.
4. French Toast Style
Use brioche, add a teaspoon of sugar and vanilla extract to the egg mixture for a slightly sweet twist.
5. Low-Carb Version
Replace bread with cooked cauliflower rice or omit it entirely, increasing eggs and cheese to compensate.
6. Mediterranean Twist
Add:
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Kalamata olives
- Feta cheese
- Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake the next morning.
2. Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze either before or after baking. Thaw overnight and bake or reheat in the oven.
3. Can I use leftover ham?
Absolutely. This is a great way to use up leftover holiday ham.
4. Can I use different cheeses?
Yes. Cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, or a cheese blend all work beautifully.
5. Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, onions, and tomatoes are all great additions.
6. How long will leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
7. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free milk, cheese, and omit heavy cream.
8. What kind of bread works best?
Day-old bread like white, whole wheat, brioche, or challah. Avoid very soft bread that may become mushy.
Final Thoughts
The Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and flavor. It’s versatile, satisfying, and easy to prepare ahead of time. Whether you’re feeding a large brunch crowd, serving a family dinner, or enjoying a hearty weekday breakfast, this casserole will not disappoint.
The creamy eggs, savory ham, and gooey cheese blend perfectly with the bread, creating a dish that’s comforting and satisfying in every bite. Add vegetables for extra nutrition or customize the cheeses and seasonings to suit your taste.
Once you try this Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe, it’s likely to become a go-to in your kitchen, whether for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or just a cozy breakfast-for-dinner night. It’s the kind of dish that warms hearts and fills bellies, making every morning a little brighter.
With a little prep and a golden bake, you’ll have a delicious, hearty breakfast casserole that your family and friends will rave about—and maybe even request on repeat.