This Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole is a comforting breakfast that combines eggs, ham, and plenty of melty cheese. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd!
It’s like a hug on a plate! I love throwing in leftover ham from the holiday dinner. Grab a fork and dig right in. Who doesn’t love cheesy goodness in the morning? 🐣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are the base of this dish, giving it structure. If you’re making a dairy-free option, use egg substitutes like flax eggs or silken tofu, although the texture will change.
Milk: Two cups of milk help create a creamy texture. You can swap this for almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk for a lighter option. Just make sure it’s unsweetened for the best flavor.
Bread Cubes: Day-old bread is ideal as it absorbs the egg mixture well. You can use white, whole grain, or even gluten-free bread. Try sourdough for a tangy flavor! If you’re short on bread, substitute with croissants or bagels – just cut them into cubes.
Cooked Ham: Diced ham adds a salty flavor. If you don’t have ham, cooked bacon or sausage works wonderfully. For a vegetarian dish, substitute with sautéed mushrooms or spinach!
Cheddar Cheese: This recipe calls for shredded cheddar, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or Colby cheese melt beautifully, and using a blend of cheeses can enhance the flavor.
How Do You Ensure the Casserole Is Set and Not Soggy?
Making sure your casserole is set can be tricky. Start by ensuring your bread is well-timed; slightly toasted bread cubes work best since they soak up less liquid. Here’s how to check:
- After 45 minutes, check the center with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, that’s a sign it’s done.
- Letting it cool for about 5 minutes is important. This allows it to firm up a bit as it cools.
- If it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes while it finishes baking.
How to Make Easter Cheesy Ham And Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 6 cups bread cubes (preferably day-old or slightly toasted)
- 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 45 to 50 minutes for baking. Allow about 5 minutes for cooling after baking. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour and 10 minutes to enjoy a delicious, warm casserole!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly. While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 eggs and add the 2 cups of milk. If you’re using it, include the 1 tsp of Dijon mustard for extra flavor. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. This mixture will be the key to binding all your ingredients together!
3. Prepare the Bread Layer:
Evenly place the 6 cups of bread cubes in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Make sure they cover the bottom completely for an even texture throughout.
4. Add the Ham:
Sprinkle the 1 ½ cups of diced cooked ham over the bread cubes, spreading it out evenly. This will add protein and flavor that pairs perfectly with the eggs and cheese.
5. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Carefully pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread and ham layers. Use a spatula or your hands to gently press down on the bread cubes, helping them absorb the liquid so everything cooks nicely and holds together.
6. Top with Cheese:
Finally, sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. This will melt beautifully and create a delicious cheesy crust.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once finished, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps everything set up nicely. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Now, your Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole is ready to be served. Cut it into squares and enjoy this warm, cheesy, and savory dish at your Easter gathering! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Casserole?
Absolutely! While ham is traditional, you can substitute cooked bacon, sausage, or even turkey for a different flavor profile. Just make sure whatever meat you choose is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before! Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven; it may need a few extra minutes of baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the microwave or place it back in the oven until heated through. For best results, cover to retain moisture.
Can I Make It Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version! Omit the ham and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. You can also increase the cheese for a richer taste!