Delicious Ham Breakfast Casserole

It’s Sunday morning, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee is filling the air, and the family is slowly starting to stir. For me, Sunday brunch is a sacred ritual, a time for connection and delicious food. But let’s be honest, mornings can be hectic, especially when you’re trying to feed a hungry crowd. That’s where this Delicious Ham Breakfast Casserole comes to the rescue! I stumbled upon this recipe a few months ago, and it has quickly become a family favorite. The first time I made it, the kids devoured it, my husband went back for seconds (and thirds!), and even my picky mother-in-law couldn’t stop raving about it. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to throw together the night before, making your morning a breeze. The combination of savory ham, fluffy eggs, gooey cheese, and crusty bread creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. Seriously, if you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch dish that’s both delicious and stress-free, look no further. This Ham Breakfast Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit!

Ingredients for Delicious Ham Breakfast Casserole

• Day-Old Bread (1 loaf, about 1 pound): Cubed or torn into bite-sized pieces. Day-old bread is ideal as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming soggy, providing a delightful texture to the casserole.
• Cooked Ham (1 pound): Diced into small cubes. Use leftover holiday ham or deli ham, both work wonderfully. Ham provides a savory, salty counterpoint to the richness of the eggs and cheese.
• Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor, but you can use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder taste. Cheese adds creaminess, flavor, and that irresistible gooeyness we all love in a casserole.
• Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds a mild and creamy flavor and melts beautifully. Combining it with cheddar creates a balanced cheese profile.
• Eggs (12 large): The foundation of the casserole, providing protein and richness. Use large eggs for the right consistency and volume.
• Milk (2 cups): Whole milk is recommended for richness, but 2% or even skim milk can be used. Milk adds moisture and helps create a creamy texture for the egg mixture.
• Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Adds extra richness and a velvety texture to the casserole. For a slightly lighter version, you can substitute with more milk.
• Yellow Onion (1 medium): Diced finely. Onion adds a subtle savory flavor base to the casserole. Sautéing it beforehand mellows its sharpness and enhances its sweetness.
• Green Bell Pepper (1 medium): Diced finely. Green bell pepper adds a fresh, slightly sweet, and slightly bitter flavor contrast, as well as a pop of color.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Minced. Garlic provides aromatic depth and enhances the savory flavors of the ham and cheese.
• Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a tangy, subtle spice that complements the ham and cheese perfectly. It enhances the overall flavor profile without being overpowering.
• Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): For garnish and a touch of fresh, herbaceous flavor. Parsley adds brightness and visual appeal to the finished casserole.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the casserole. Adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a touch of spice and depth of flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.
• Optional: Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon): For a subtle kick of heat. Add if you like a little spice in your breakfast.

Instructions for Making Ham Breakfast Casserole

1. Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed or torn day-old bread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly toasted and slightly dried out. This step is crucial as it prevents the bread from becoming soggy in the casserole. Remove from the oven and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and diced green bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are fragrant and slightly tender. Don’t overcook them; they will continue to cook in the oven. Remove from heat.
3. Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper (and red pepper flakes, if using). Whisk until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. This ensures a light and airy texture for the casserole.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the toasted bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the Monterey Jack cheese over the bread. Distribute the diced ham evenly over the cheese layer. Top with the sautéed onion, garlic, and green bell pepper mixture. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the vegetables and ham.
5. Pour Egg Mixture: Gently pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish, ensuring that the bread is mostly submerged. Use a spatula or spoon to lightly press down on the bread if needed to help it soak up the egg mixture.
6. Refrigerate (Optional Overnight): For the best flavor and convenience, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Refrigerating allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture and the flavors to meld together beautifully. If baking immediately, let the casserole sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes while the oven preheats to allow the bread to soak up some of the liquid.
7. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If the casserole was refrigerated, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown, puffed, and set in the center. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
8. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set further and makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts for Ham Breakfast Casserole (Per Serving)

• Servings: 12
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 20-25g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time for Ham Breakfast Casserole

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (This includes chopping vegetables, cubing bread, whisking eggs, and assembling the casserole.)
• Cook Time: 45-55 minutes (Baking time in the oven, plus toasting bread)
• Rest Time: 10-15 minutes (Resting after baking for optimal texture)
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes – 1 hour 40 minutes (Excluding overnight refrigeration time if chosen).
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This casserole is incredibly make-ahead friendly. You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and bake it the next morning, saving you precious time on the day of serving. The overnight refrigeration actually enhances the flavors and texture of the casserole.

How to Serve Ham Breakfast Casserole

This versatile breakfast casserole can be served in numerous ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic Brunch Spread:
  • Serve slices of warm Ham Breakfast Casserole as the centerpiece of your brunch table.
  • Accompany it with a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness of the casserole. Berries, melon, grapes, and kiwi are excellent choices.
  • Offer a side of crispy bacon or sausage for those who want extra protein.
  • Include yogurt and granola for a lighter option.
  • Set out a basket of fresh pastries or muffins for a touch of sweetness.
  • Don’t forget freshly squeezed orange juice, coffee, and tea to complete the brunch experience.
• Weekday Breakfast:
  • Bake the casserole on the weekend and enjoy reheated slices throughout the week for quick and easy breakfasts. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.
  • Pair a slice with a smoothie or a glass of milk for a balanced and satisfying weekday breakfast.
• Holiday Gatherings:
  • Ham Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic option for Christmas morning, Easter brunch, or Thanksgiving breakfast. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
  • Serve it alongside other holiday breakfast favorites like cinnamon rolls, pancakes, or waffles.
• Potlucks and Parties:
  • This casserole is easy to transport and serve at potlucks, family gatherings, or casual parties.
  • Cut it into smaller squares for easy finger food at a brunch buffet.
• Simple Weeknight Dinner (Breakfast for Dinner – Brinner!):
  • Embrace the “brinner” trend and serve Ham Breakfast Casserole for a comforting and easy weeknight dinner.
  • Pair it with a simple green salad to add some vegetables to the meal.

Additional Tips for the Best Ham Breakfast Casserole

1. Use Day-Old Bread: As mentioned earlier, day-old bread is crucial. It has a drier texture that absorbs the egg mixture without becoming mushy. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out by cubing it and leaving it uncovered at room temperature for a few hours or lightly toasting it in a low oven.
2. Don’t Skip Toasting the Bread: Toasting the bread cubes in the oven before assembling the casserole is an important step. It further dries out the bread and gives it a slightly crispier texture in the final dish, preventing sogginess.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Sautéing the onions, garlic, and bell peppers before adding them to the casserole mellows their flavors and enhances their sweetness. Raw onions and peppers can be a bit harsh and overpowering in a baked casserole.
4. Cheese Variety: Using a combination of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack provides a more complex and balanced flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Swiss, or Pepper Jack for different flavor variations.
5. Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture or use Pepper Jack cheese. You could also incorporate a dash of hot sauce for extra zest.
6. Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your casserole. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, asparagus, or diced tomatoes would all be delicious additions. Just be sure to cook any moisture-rich vegetables like mushrooms or spinach beforehand to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
7. Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes. You could also add vegetarian sausage crumbles for a heartier vegetarian casserole.
8. Make it Ahead Like a Pro: Assembling the casserole the night before is a game-changer for busy mornings. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Baking it straight from the fridge might require an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for more even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Ham Breakfast Casserole

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A1: Absolutely! In fact, this Ham Breakfast Casserole is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it completely the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it straight from the fridge in the morning for a stress-free breakfast or brunch. It might need a little extra baking time if baking directly from cold.

Q2: Can I freeze Ham Breakfast Casserole?
A2: Yes, you can freeze leftover baked casserole. Let it cool completely, then cut it into individual portions or leave it whole. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.

Q3: What kind of bread is best for breakfast casserole?
A3: Day-old bread is ideal because it’s slightly drier and absorbs the egg mixture without becoming soggy. Good options include French bread, Italian bread, sourdough, or even challah. Avoid using very soft bread like sandwich bread, as it can get mushy.

Q4: Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham?
A4: Yes, you can easily customize this casserole with different meats. Cooked sausage (breakfast sausage or Italian sausage), bacon, or even shredded cooked chicken or turkey would all work well. Just make sure the meat is cooked before adding it to the casserole.

Q5: My casserole is getting too brown on top, but the center isn’t cooked. What should I do?
A5: If the top of your casserole is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This will prevent the top from burning while allowing the center to cook through.

Q6: Can I make this casserole dairy-free or gluten-free?
A6: For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the milk and heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk beverage. Use dairy-free cheese shreds. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread cubes. Many gluten-free bread options are available today.

Q7: How do I reheat leftover Ham Breakfast Casserole?
A7: Leftovers reheat beautifully! You can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. For larger portions or the whole casserole, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Q8: Can I add different seasonings to the casserole?
A8: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor to your liking. Consider adding dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the egg mixture. A dash of paprika or onion powder can also enhance the savory flavors. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

This Delicious Ham Breakfast Casserole is truly a breakfast champion – easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s a special occasion brunch or a simple weekend breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy!

Print