Broccoli Brunch
A hearty brunch casserole featuring tender broccoli, savory ham, and sharp cheese baked in buttery bread—perfect for a crowd, a comforting Sunday breakfast, or a quick weeknight treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut round circles out of the bread and remove the crusts.
- Place the crust scraps in the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the remaining bread, cooked broccoli, diced ham, milk, beaten eggs, minced onion, and dry mustard; stir until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture over the crusts in the pan.
- Refrigerate the assembled casserole for at least 6 hours, or overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the bread to soften.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're short on time, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh; just ensure it’s thawed and well-drained. Feel free to swap out the sharp cheese for your favorite variety, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to customize the flavor. For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Brunch is perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch, and it pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy hash browns. For a complete meal, serve with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette. Consider serving alongside a savory dish like Ham-Pineapple Bake for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Brunch contains roughly 586 calories, with 18g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (48% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 661mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it's recommended to refrigerate the assembled casserole overnight to enhance the flavors and allow the bread to absorb the custard mixture. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
What can I substitute for the ham?
If you're looking for a substitute for the ham, cooked bacon or sausage would work well. For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Just adjust the cooking time for any raw meats accordingly.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. Note that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the bread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).