This Easy Ham, Egg, & Cheese Casserole is a cozy breakfast dish packed with tasty bits of ham, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese. Perfect for serving a crowd or enjoying throughout the week!
I love how simple it is to throw together! Just mix everything in one dish and let it bake. It feels like a warm hug on a plate—and who doesn’t want that for breakfast? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are a must for this recipe as they create a rich and fluffy texture. If you need to use fewer calories, consider substituting some eggs with egg whites—just use about 2 egg whites for each whole egg.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk. However, keep in mind that almond milk might make it slightly less creamy.
Ham: Leftover cooked ham works great for this recipe. If you’re vegetarian or want a different flavor, try using sautéed mushrooms or cooked turkey sausage instead. Just make sure it’s diced to distribute evenly.
Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or even pepper jack can add a nice twist. If you want a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese that melts well.
How Can I Make Sure My Casserole Is Fluffy and Moist?
The key to achieving a fluffy and moist casserole is in how you mix your ingredients. Here’s how:
- Whisk the eggs and milk until frothy. This introduces air, making the casserole light.
- Don’t overmix the ham and cheese into the egg mixture. Just stir until combined; it should be a little lumpy.
- Allow the casserole to rest a few minutes after baking. This helps it set properly before slicing.
Keep an eye on it while it’s baking! If the top gets too brown but the center isn’t set, you can cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
Easy Ham, Egg, & Cheese Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-jack mix)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Ham, Egg, & Cheese Casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35–40 minutes to bake, giving you a total of about 50 minutes. After baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grease the Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick!
2. Whisk the Eggs and Milk:
In a large bowl, crack open the 8 large eggs and pour in the 1 cup of whole milk. Use a whisk to combine them thoroughly until the mixture is slightly frothy. This introduces air, helping your casserole to be fluffy!
3. Season It Up:
Add in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if you’re using it) to the egg mixture. Whisk again until everything is well mixed.
4. Mix in Ham and Cheese:
Now stir in the diced ham and 1 cup of shredded cheese into the egg mixture. Mix gently to ensure the ham and cheese are evenly distributed without overmixing.
5. Pour and Spread:
Carefully pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out so everything is even—you want to make sure every bite has ham, egg, and cheese!
6. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top. This will create a delicious melty layer when baked.
7. Bake:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set at the center and the top is golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil during the last few minutes.
8. Let It Cool:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Slice into squares and serve warm! If you’d like, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a colorful finishing touch.
Enjoy your hearty and comforting Easy Ham, Egg, & Cheese Casserole!
Can I Use Leftover Ham in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover ham is perfect for this casserole. Just make sure it’s diced into small pieces for even distribution.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s starting out cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Casserole?
Definitely! You can omit the ham and substitute it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.