This Ham and Egg Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s packed with delicious ham, fluffy eggs, and a sprinkle of cheese, all baked to perfection!
I love how easy it is to make this casserole. Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and relax while it bakes. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd—everyone’s happy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are the star here, providing the base for your casserole. If you’re aiming for fewer calories, egg whites or an egg substitute can be used, but keep in mind the texture will be a bit different.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk will make your casserole rich and creamy. For a lighter option, you can use skim milk or even non-dairy milk like almond milk. Just ensure it’s unsweetened!
Ham: Diced cooked ham adds flavor and protein. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey ham or even cooked bacon. Tofu can work in vegetarian versions, just season it well.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese brings great flavor and gooeyness. Feel free to swap it for mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for a spicy kick, depending on what you have on hand!
Onion: While optional, including chopped onion can enhance the flavor. If you’re not a fan or don’t have any, you can skip it or use shallots for a milder taste.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Light and Fluffy?
Getting that perfect fluffy texture in your casserole can sometimes be tricky. Here’s how to achieve it!
- Whisking: Blend the eggs and milk thoroughly. This adds air to the mixture, helping it puff up as it cooks.
- Don’t Overmix: After adding the other ingredients, stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser casserole.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This lets it set up and makes cutting cleaner.
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously fluffy ham and egg casserole every time! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Ham and Egg Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter or cooking spray (for greasing the dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 30 to 35 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll invest around 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect dish for brunch or a hearty breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, crack open the 6 large eggs and pour in 1 cup of milk. Whisk them together until fully blended and nice and frothy. This mix creates a fluffy base for your casserole!
3. Add the Other Ingredients:
To the egg mixture, add the diced cooked ham, shredded cheddar cheese, optional chopped onion, chopped parsley or chives, salt, and pepper. Give it a gentle stir until everything is well combined.
4. Pour and Spread:
Carefully pour the egg mixture into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, ensuring the ingredients are spread throughout.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Slide the casserole into the oven and bake it for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; it should puff up and turn golden on top. To check if it’s ready, insert a knife into the center—it should come out clean.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it set up nicely. When ready, garnish with extra chopped parsley or chives if you like.
7. Enjoy!
Cut into squares and serve warm. This dish is fantastic on its own, or pair it with some fresh bread and a glass of orange juice to make a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious and comforting ham and egg casserole!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta for a different flavor profile. Just remember, the melting quality may vary slightly, so choose a cheese that melts well.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers 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 cover it with foil in the oven to keep it from drying out.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply mix all the ingredients and pour them into the greased dish, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it into the oven as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your casserole! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms are great additions. Just sauté any fresh vegetables beforehand to reduce moisture, which helps maintain the casserole’s texture.