Cheesy Bacon And Ham Casserole
A hearty casserole combining crispy bacon, savory ham, cheesy grits, and eggs, perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering comforting flavors in a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a large skillet until crisp; remove and drain on paper towels, reserving 1 tablespoon of drippings in the skillet. Crumble bacon and set aside.
- Cook ham in the reserved drippings in the skillet over medium heat until browned.
- Cook the quick cooking grits according to package directions.
- Remove from heat; stir in cubed cheese and butter until melted.
- Stir in crumbled bacon, cooked ham, eggs, and remaining ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheddar cheese along with the cubed cheese product. You can also substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option. If you don't have quick cooking grits, regular grits can work, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. This casserole can be made ahead and baked fresh when needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy bacon and ham casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a breakfast twist, enjoy it alongside fruit or pancakes. It's an excellent choice for brunch or a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Bacon And Ham Casserole contains roughly 176 calories, with 6g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% 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 use different types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor. Just ensure the total amount of cheese is similar to the original recipe so it maintains the right texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can omit the bacon and ham and replace them with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian version. You might also add some cooked beans for protein.
Can this casserole be prepared the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
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).