This Ham Breakfast Casserole is a warm and cozy dish that brings all your breakfast favorites together! Packed with juicy ham, eggs, and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for any morning.
It’s also super easy to make. Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and let it bake while you sip your coffee. Who doesn’t love a hassle-free start to the day? ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: The base of the casserole! I suggest using large eggs for the best results. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can try using silken tofu blended until smooth in place of eggs, but it will change the texture a bit.
Milk: Whole milk gives richness to the dish, but you can substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk for a lighter version. Just ensure they are unsweetened!
Bread: Day-old bread works best since it absorbs the egg mixture nicely without getting mushy. You could use any type of bread, like sourdough or whole wheat, or even croissants for a flakier texture!
Ham: This recipe shines with cooked ham, but if you’re looking for something different, turkey sausage or chopped vegetables like bell peppers can work too. You can also use leftover holiday ham for extra flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while Swiss provides a milder flavor. You can also use a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for the Casserole?
The perfect texture is a big part of what makes this dish so comforting. It should be creamy on the inside and a little crispy on top. Follow these tips to achieve that:
- Use stale or slightly toasted bread. Fresh bread can become too soggy, while stale bread absorbs the egg mixture well.
- Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to incorporate air. This will help the casserole rise slightly when baking.
- Allow it to rest for a few minutes after baking before cutting into it. This helps the casserole set and makes serving easier.
Remember, every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on it as it bakes! Enjoy your cooking!
Ham Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups bread cubes (preferably day-old or slightly toasted)
- 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 ½ 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 delicious Ham Breakfast Casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to bake. A total of about an hour to make something scrumptious that will feed the whole family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with some butter or cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, crack the eggs and pour in the milk. Add the salt, pepper, and optional parsley. Whisk this all together until it’s well combined and nice and fluffy.
3. Combine the Fillings:
Next, add the bread cubes, diced ham, and shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Gently fold everything together, making sure all the bread is coated with the egg mixture for full flavor!
4. Pour and Spread:
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly so that it cooks evenly too.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Now, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let It Rest:
Once it’s finished baking, carefully remove it from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes. This makes it easier to slice and serve!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the casserole into squares and serve it warm. If you’d like, you can sprinkle a little extra parsley on top for a nice touch!
Enjoy your hearty and delicious Ham Breakfast Casserole, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner!
Can I Use Any Type of Bread for This Casserole?
Absolutely! While day-old bread works best for texture, you can use any bread you have on hand—sourdough, whole wheat, or even croissants for a delightful twist. Just make sure it’s not too fresh, or it may turn out soggy.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What If I Don’t Have Ham?
No problem at all! You can substitute cooked ham with cooked bacon, sausage, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave or put them back in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
