This hearty Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole combines fluffy eggs, savory ham, and gooey cheese all in one delicious dish. It’s perfect for a festive brunch!
This casserole is a big hit in my family, and it’s so easy to make. Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and soon you’ll smell the yummy goodness! 🐣✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs provide structure and richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use egg whites or egg substitute, but keep in mind the texture may differ.
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives creaminess to the dish. For a lower-fat version, you could use 2% milk, or even almond milk for a dairy-free option, although the flavor will be a bit lighter.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang. If you’re out of Dijon, yellow mustard will work too, but it’s milder. Alternatively, consider a hint of hot sauce for a spicy kick!
Bread: Day-old bread is perfect for soaking up the egg mixture. French bread is a great choice, but you can also use white, sourdough, or even whole grain bread. Just ensure it’s not too fresh, or it won’t soak as well.
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor, but mild cheddar works well too. For a twist, try mixing in some Monterey Jack or using a blend of cheeses for extra creaminess.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
To get that perfect, fluffy casserole, make sure to thoroughly combine the egg mixture and bread. This step is crucial for full flavor absorption. Here’s how to do it right:
- Crack the eggs into a large bowl, then whisk them up with milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Once blended, gently fold in the cubed bread, diced ham, and half of the cheese until each piece of bread feels soaked.
- Let it sit for a few minutes. This gives the bread time to soak up more of that delicious egg mixture.
Remember, a clean knife after baking means it’s fully set in the center, so don’t skip checking!
How to Make Easter Cheesy Ham And Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread (French bread or similar)
- 1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
For the Garnish (Optional):
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For Greasing the Dish:
- Butter or non-stick spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be spending around 1 hour total from start to finish. Perfect for an easy brunch that you can make ahead!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grab your 9×13 inch casserole dish and grease it with some butter or non-stick spray. This will help prevent sticking and make serving easier!
2. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 eggs, and add in the whole milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to beat everything together until the mixture is well combined and frothy.
3. Add the Bread and Ham:
Now, add the cubed day-old bread, diced ham, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Gently stir it all together to make sure the bread is well-coated and soaking up that delicious egg mixture.
4. Pour into the Dish:
Carefully pour the entire mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks properly.
5. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. This melting cheese will create a nice golden crust when baked!
6. Bake It Up:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 45-55 minutes. You want the top to turn a lovely golden brown, and to check if it’s done, insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean, your casserole is ready!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness right before serving. Serve warm, and for a little extra kick, consider adding a side of salsa or ketchup!
This cheesy ham and egg casserole is perfect for Easter morning and makes for a delightful, hearty brunch. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While day-old French bread is ideal, you can also use sourdough, whole grain, or even croissants. Just ensure the bread is a bit stale to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the ham and consider adding in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, this casserole is great for make-ahead meals! Mix everything together the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk to keep it moist while reheating!