This Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole is a tasty dish that’s perfect for brunch! Loaded with fluffy eggs, savory ham, and lots of gooey cheese, it’s sure to please everyone.
It’s super easy to whip up. Just mix everything in a dish and let the oven do the magic! I love serving it with some fresh fruit on the side for a delicious morning treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Six large eggs provide the structure of the casserole, holding everything together. If you’re looking for a lower-cholesterol option, try substituting with egg whites or using a liquid egg substitute instead.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk adds creaminess to the dish. For a dairy-free option, use almond or oat milk; just check for unsweetened varieties to keep the flavor balanced.
Ham: Diced cooked ham is the star here, but if you’re not a ham fan or want a vegetarian option, cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables can also work well.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is delicious, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a fun twist. For a dairy-free version, try vegan cheese shreds.
Bread: Sturdy bread like French or Italian is great for soaking up the egg mixture. If you have a gluten sensitivity, gluten-free bread works too. Day-old bread is ideal as it holds up better.
How Can I Make Sure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Getting your casserole to the right texture can be tricky. The key is how you mix and let it sit. Allowing the bread to absorb the egg mixture for about 10 minutes is crucial. This softens the bread without turning it into mush.
- Mix the ingredients gently to avoid tearing the bread too much.
- Watch the baking time closely; every oven is different!
- Test for doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean when the casserole is done.
How to Make Easter Cheesy Ham And Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 3 cups cubed bread (day-old, preferably a sturdy type like French or Italian bread)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- ½ cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional, for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 35-40 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at approximately 1 hour for a delicious Easter brunch dish that will serve a crowd!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grab a 9×9 inch baking dish and grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This step helps prevent the casserole from sticking!
2. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs and the 1 cup of milk until everything is nicely combined. Next, add the ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley or Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir to mix in the seasonings.
3. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Stir in the 3 cups of cubed bread, 2 cups of diced cooked ham, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese, ½ cup of diced onion, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Mix everything gently until just combined. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes so the bread can soak up all that delicious egg mixture.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Once your mixture has rested, pour it into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks perfectly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until it’s set in the center and golden brown on top.
5. Cool and Serve:
After baking, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps it set up a bit and makes serving easier. If you’d like, garnish with some extra parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy this cheesy, savory delight at your Easter brunch!
Can I Use Frozen Ham in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ham! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before dicing and using it in the casserole. You can also use leftover holiday ham, which works great!
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! To do this, prepare the casserole as instructed, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove it from the fridge while the oven preheats, and then bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Bread?
If you want a low-carb or gluten-free option, try using cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a gluten-free bread substitute. Just keep in mind that the texture will be different!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm throughout. You might add a splash of milk to keep it moist while reheating.