This yummy Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole is the perfect dish for brunch! It’s packed with fluffy eggs, tasty ham, and lots of gooey cheese—all baked together until golden.
Honestly, the cheesy goodness makes this casserole hard to resist. I love making it the night before so I can wake up to a delicious breakfast without any fuss. What a treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh, large eggs are the backbone of this dish, providing flavor and structure. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce can work in a pinch for flavor, but won’t give you the same texture.
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy consistency to the casserole, but you could use 2% milk or even a milk alternative like almond or oat milk if you’re avoiding dairy.
Bread: Day-old bread is perfect for this recipe as it absorbs the egg mixture without getting too soggy. French bread is great, but feel free to use whole grain or sourdough for different flavors. If you don’t have day-old bread, lightly toast fresh bread cubes first.
Ham: Cooked ham adds a delicious, savory element. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey ham works well, or you can use shredded chicken for a different flavor profile.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is classic for this dish, but you could also mix in Monterey Jack or Gruyère for variety. If you need a dairy-free option, there are great vegan cheese alternatives available.
How Can I Ensure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
A key step for a perfect casserole is the soaking time for the bread. Allowing the mixture to rest after pouring the egg mixture ensures that the bread absorbs the liquid. Don’t rush this step! Here’s how:
- Press the bread lightly to help absorb the mixture.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes at room temperature before baking.
Also, be cautious with the baking time; every oven is different! Check for a golden brown top and ensure the center is set.
Make a Delicious Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French bread or baguette)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon pieces (optional)
Time Needed to Make This Dish:
This scrumptious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires an additional 45 to 55 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. Overall, you can have a warm, cheesy meal ready in about 1 hour and 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish and grease it lightly so your casserole doesn’t stick. You can use cooking spray or a little butter.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, crack the 6 eggs and add in the 2 cups of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley if you’re using it. Whisk everything together until everything is well combined. This will be the base of your casserole!
3. Layer the Bread:
Now, take the cubed bread and spread it evenly in your greased casserole dish. Make sure it covers the bottom evenly so every bite is tasty!
4. Add Ham and Cheese:
Sprinkle the diced ham and half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bread cubes. This adds a wonderful flavor and texture.
5. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Next, pour that delicious egg mixture evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese. Use a spatula to press down lightly on the bread cubes so they soak up all that egg goodness.
6. Top It Off:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of your casserole. This will create a cheesy, bubbly topping while it bakes.
7. Optional Bacon Bits:
If you’d like, add the cooked bacon pieces over the cheese for an extra burst of flavor. Who doesn’t love bacon?
8. Let It Soak:
Let your casserole sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This helps the bread absorb the egg mixture even more—yummy!
9. Baking Time:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set. The casserole should puff up beautifully!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to cut and serve.
11. Final Touch:
If you’d like, garnish your casserole with additional parsley for a pop of color and serve warm. Enjoy every cheesy bite of your Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Ingredients in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen diced ham! Just make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the casserole. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting for a quicker option. Avoid using frozen bread, as it won’t absorb the egg mixture properly.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the ham and bacon. You can add in extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them briefly before adding to the casserole for the best results!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Then, bake it in the morning. Just keep in mind that if it’s cold from the fridge, it may need a few extra minutes in the oven. You might want to add a few extra minutes to the baking time, checking for the golden brown top.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it creamy!