Are you craving a mouthwatering dish that combines the savory richness of ham, the creamy goodness of cheese, and a crispy golden topping that'll have everyone begging for seconds? Look no further! This Ham and Cheese Casserole is about to become your new go-to recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying dinner.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ham
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well beaten and slightly frothy. Add milk, salt, and pepper, whisking to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Dice the ham into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/2 inch in size. If using leftover ham, ensure it is at room temperature before adding to the mixture.
- Fold the diced ham and shredded cheese into the egg and milk mixture. Stir gently to distribute ingredients throughout the mixture.
- Pour the ham and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs uniformly over the top of the casserole, creating a light, even coating that will turn golden and crispy during baking.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
- Cut into 6 equal portions and serve warm as a hearty breakfast, brunch, or light dinner option.
Tips
- Use high-quality, thick-cut ham for the best flavor and texture. Leftover holiday ham works wonderfully in this recipe.
- Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties for a smoother, more melty consistency.
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or chives to the egg mixture.
- Make sure to let the casserole rest after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- For a crispier top, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- This casserole is incredibly versatile - feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 272kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 172mg
