This ham and egg casserole is a warm and tasty dish, perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s filled with layers of flavorful ham, eggs, and cheese, baked to golden perfection!
You can easily whip this up when you’re having friends over or just want a hearty meal. I love how it can be made ahead of time and still taste great, making mornings a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for this casserole. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use egg whites or an egg substitute, but the texture might be less rich.
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy consistency, but you can use low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk. The flavor may slightly change, but it will still work well.
Ham: Cooked ham adds great flavor. If you’re vegetarian or want a different protein, consider using cooked bacon, sausage, or diced vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a meatless version.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a classic flavor. For a twist, you could try Gruyère, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just ensure the cheese melts well.
Fresh Parsley: This adds color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley, green onions or chives make an excellent substitute.
How Can I Ensure My Casserole Comes Out Perfectly Set?
To achieve the perfect consistency, it’s vital to monitor the cooking time. Make sure to whisk the eggs and milk until frothy, incorporating air into the mixture. Here’s a helpful guide to ensure you’re successful:
- Preheat your oven fully before placing the casserole inside.
- Check for doneness at 35 minutes. The casserole should be puffed and slightly firm in the center.
- If it’s browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting; this allows it to set up further. Following these steps will help you make a perfectly fluffy and delicious casserole every time!
Ham And Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For The Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake, with a total of around 50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious breakfast or brunch dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9-inch round or square baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until everything is fully combined and the mixture is slightly frothy. This helps to add air and lightness to the casserole.
3. Add Ham and Cheese:
Next, fold in the diced ham and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture, stirring gently until evenly distributed. This will create a hearty filling for your casserole.
4. Pour into Baking Dish:
Carefully pour the egg and ham mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This will ensure it bakes evenly.
5. Top with Remaining Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is fully set in the center and the top is beautifully golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes. This will make slicing easier.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a touch of color and freshness. Enjoy your hearty ham and egg casserole warm with toast and maybe a glass of fresh orange juice!
This dish is full of flavor and great for any occasion. You can even make it ahead of time and reheat it for an easy meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! If you don’t have ham or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute cooked bacon, sausage, or even a combination of vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any meat is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it in the morning; it might require an extra 5-10 minutes of cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or cover and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Use Egg Whites Instead of Whole Eggs?
Yes, you can use egg whites as a lower-calorie option! Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different. You would need about 12-15 egg whites to replace the 6 whole eggs used in the recipe.