This Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole is a warm and hearty dish filled with tasty ham, creamy eggs, and lots of melted cheese. It’s perfect for a festive brunch!
I love making this casserole the night before, so when morning comes, all I have to do is pop it in the oven. It’s like waking up to a cheesy hug! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are key here for a fluffy texture. If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed banana for each egg, keeping in mind the flavor will change slightly.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk works well, just make sure they’re not flavored.
Bread: Day-old bread helps the casserole soak up the egg mixture without getting too soggy. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to swap with gluten-free bread. French bread adds a lovely texture and flavor.
Ham: Cooked ham is traditional, but you can use turkey ham or diced cooked bacon for a flavor twist. If vegetarian, consider using sautéed veggies or black beans instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a wonderful taste. If you’re not a cheddar fan, try Colby jack or even Swiss cheese for a different but yummy flavor profile.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole is Perfectly Baked?
Getting the perfect bake on your casserole can make all the difference! The key is in baking it at the right temperature and time:
- Start with preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps set the eggs without burning the top.
- Cover with foil during the first half of baking to prevent over-browning. This allows the inside to cook through.
- After 30 minutes, uncover and bake an additional 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’re looking for a golden brown top and for the center to be set, not jiggly.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld together beautifully. You’ll have a wonderful dish ready to impress!
How to Make Easter Cheesy Ham And Egg Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cups cubed bread (day-old or slightly toasted works best; use white or French bread)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and approximately 50-60 minutes to cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on the layers, then bake for 45 minutes, making it a great dish to prepare while you enjoy the festivities!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish well with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mixing the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 eggs and pour in the milk. Add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk together until everything is well combined and fluffy. This will be the delicious base of your casserole!
3. Layering the Bread:
Take the cubed bread and spread it evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will be the cozy base that soaks up all the wonderful flavors!
4. Adding the Ham and Cheese:
Next, sprinkle half of the diced ham over the bread cubes. Then, spread half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the ham. Finally, dot half of the cream cheese cubes over these layers, ensuring a lovely creamy texture throughout.
5. Repeat the Layers:
Now, it’s time to repeat! On top of the first layers, add another layer of cubed bread, the remaining ham, and the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Top it off with the remaining cream cheese cubes, spreading them evenly.
6. Pouring the Egg Mixture:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over all the layers in the baking dish. Press down slightly with a spatula to help the bread soak up the egg goodness.
7. Baking Time:
Cover the dish loosely with foil to keep everything moist, then place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the casserole is set and the top has turned a lovely golden brown.
8. Finishing Touches:
Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will help it hold together when you cut into it. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness!
This casserole is perfect for Easter breakfast or brunch, bringing together fluffy eggs, cheesy goodness, and savory ham in a delightful baked dish. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is fantastic, you can experiment with other types like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor twist. Just make sure to stick with cheeses that melt well!
What Kind of Bread Works Best?
Day-old white or French bread works best for this casserole since it soaks up the egg mixture without getting too soggy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole grain bread can also be a good choice, just be sure it’s not too dense.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just allow extra time to bake it in the morning as it will be cold from the fridge. Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until it’s set and the top is golden.
