Brunch Cheese Casserole
A hearty brunch casserole combining bread, cheddar cheese, ham, and eggs, baked to perfection. Ideal for weekend gatherings or family brunches, offering comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim off the bread crusts, butter the slices, and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
- Place the bread cubes in a 9 x 12-inch casserole dish.
- Add the cubed cheddar cheese and diced cooked ham over the bread.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and blend with the milk.
- Add salt to the egg mixture.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread, cheese, and ham in the casserole dish.
- Refrigerate the casserole for 12 hours to allow it to soak.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 1 hour.
- Serve warm, ideally with fruit cups and bran muffins.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, in addition to the Cheddar. If you're short on time, you can skip refrigerating the casserole overnight, but soaking enhances the flavors. You can also substitute the ham with cooked sausage or bacon for a twist. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with fruit cups and bran muffins. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or a selection of pastries. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of Pan Sausage or some crispy bacon. Enjoy it with a light beverage like mimosas or coffee for a complete experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brunch Cheese Casserole contains roughly 712 calories, with 21g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (56% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 932mg per serving (41% 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 the casserole a day in advance?
Yes, this casserole is ideal for make-ahead meals. Prepare it the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it the next morning. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an excellent choice for brunch gatherings.
What can I use instead of ham?
If you prefer a different protein, cooked sausage or bacon can be great alternatives. For a vegetarian version, consider using sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to add texture and flavor while keeping it hearty.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when it's puffed up and golden brown on top, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If it appears to be browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
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).