Ham Egg and Cheese Casserole: Quick and Easy Breakfast

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the smell of a warm, cheesy casserole filling your kitchen. This ham egg cheese casserole is a quick and easy breakfast recipe that will become your go-to for busy mornings or weekend family brunches.

this Recipe

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a comforting, protein-packed meal on the table in under an hour. You’ll love how the savory flavors blend perfectly with fluffy eggs and gooey cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings.
• Make-ahead option saves time on hectic days.
• Protein-packed and filling to keep you energized.
• Customizable with your favorite cheeses or veggies.
• Great for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients

Gather the following simple ingredients to make this delicious ham egg cheese casserole.

• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 cups cubed cooked ham
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 cups cubed day-old bread (French or white bread works well)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

How to Make Ham, Egg, and Cheese Casserole: Quick & Easy Breakfast Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until fully combined and slightly frothy.
3. Add the cubed bread, ham, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese to the egg mixture. Stir gently to evenly distribute all ingredients.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Press down lightly so the bread absorbs the egg mixture well.
5. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center (a knife inserted should come out clean).
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use day-old or slightly stale bread so it absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.
• Feel free to swap cheddar for your favorite cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to firm up and slice neatly.
• Customize with veggies like diced bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
• For a lower-fat version, substitute whole milk with 2% or use reduced-fat cheese.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover ham egg cheese casserole tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats well in the microwave or oven.

For longer storage, freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Simply bake it the next morning for a fresh, hot breakfast with minimal prep time.

What kind of ham works best in this recipe?

Cubed cooked deli ham or leftover baked ham are both great choices. The key is to have it pre-cooked since the casserole only bakes long enough to set the eggs.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the bread cubes with gluten-free bread or use cooked gluten-free grains like quinoa for a similar texture without gluten.

Is it possible to add vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can enhance flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to cook any raw vegetables before mixing them in.