"Do Ahead" Brunch Special
A savory make-ahead brunch casserole featuring bread, cheese, ham, and broccoli, perfect for entertaining or holiday gatherings, offering a delicious combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut circles (donut shape) from bread slices using a large glass and a shot glass for the holes; save the scraps.
- Place bread scraps in the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Layer sliced cheese over the bread scraps, followed by ham and broccoli.
- Arrange bread circles over the layered ingredients, filling in outer spaces with the holes.
- In a bowl, combine the beaten eggs, milk, minced onions, salt, and dry mustard.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled bread, cheese, ham, and broccoli layers.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight or at least six hours.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55 minutes until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using sharp Cheddar cheese or a blend of cheeses. You can substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for variety. If you want to make this dish lighter, use whole grain bread and low-fat milk. Prepping the evening before allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it perfect for a brunch gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this brunch special with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with Mr. Tim'S Grilled Cheese for a comforting meal. You can also offer a selection of condiments like hot sauce or salsa for guests to customize their servings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the portions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This way, the dish retains its texture and flavor, ensuring a delightful experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Do Ahead" Brunch Special contains roughly 677 calories, with 14g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 885mg per serving (38% 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 make this dish in advance and freeze it?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover tightly and freeze. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This makes it convenient for busy mornings or unexpected guests.
What can I substitute for ham in this recipe?
You can use cooked bacon, sausage, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for a delicious twist. This allows you to customize the dish to fit different dietary preferences.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ham and replace it with additional vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or a mix of your favorites. You can also add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for added flavor.
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).