This Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole is a yummy and hearty dish that mixes eggs, cheese, and ham in one big, cozy pan. It’s perfect for a festive breakfast or brunch!
I love how easy it is to make—just throw in your ingredients and let the oven do the work. Plus, the cheesy goodness always makes everyone smile. What’s not to love? 🐰🥚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are the star of this dish, providing the base for the custardy texture. If you’re short on eggs, you can substitute with 1/4 cup of egg substitute for each egg.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk work well too; just be sure they are unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced.
Bread: Day-old bread is ideal as it soaks up the custard nicely. Fresh bread can work too, but consider toasting it first. Use whole grain, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread if needed.
Ham: Cooked ham adds protein and flavor. If you want a different taste, feel free to use diced cooked bacon, sausage, or even leftover turkey!
Cheese: Cheddar is a great choice for flavor, but you might try Monterey Jack or a blend with mozzarella for a different melt factor. Vegan cheese can also substitute if you’re keeping it dairy-free.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Moist?
Getting the right texture in a casserole is all about ensuring the bread absorbs the egg mixture fully. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix the egg mixture and bread gently but thoroughly, making sure every cube is coated.
- Let sitting for 10 minutes is crucial – it gives the bread time to soak up the mixture.
- Avoid over-baking; check for doneness around the 45-minute mark. The center should be firm but not dry.
Cooling slightly before serving helps the casserole set a bit more, making it easier to slice! Enjoy your Easter brunch!
Delicious Easter Cheesy Ham And Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 6 cups bread cubes (day-old bread, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Seasoning:
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Greasing:
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 45-50 minutes to bake. After it’s done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour for prep and cooking—perfect for an Easter brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and lightly grease it with butter. This will help prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). Make sure everything is well combined and frothy.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, add the bread cubes, diced ham, chopped onion (if you’re using it), and shredded cheese to the egg mixture. Stir gently so that the bread absorbs the egg mixture evenly. You want all those delicious flavors combined!
4. Let It Soak:
Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. This soaking time is crucial as it lets the bread soak up all the wonderful egg and milk mixture.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is firm and the top is a lovely golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove your casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve warm, and enjoy with a fresh glass of orange juice or your favorite breakfast sides.
This Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole is sure to be a hit at your brunch table. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick. Just be sure it’s a good melting cheese for the best texture!
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ham and replace it with veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also add in some cubed tofu for extra protein!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before! Just prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the fridge while the oven preheats, then bake as directed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to keep it moist. Enjoy it for breakfast or even as a snack!