Egg And Ham Bake
A cheesy, savory egg and ham bake with melty Monterey Jack, perfect for breakfast or brunch, serving a crowd with hearty flavors and a comforting texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Melt the oleo and pour half into a 9 x 13-inch dish to coat the bottom.
- Sift the flour and baking powder together in a bowl.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the diced ham, grated Monterey Jack cheese, the flour mixture, and the remaining melted oleo to the beaten eggs.
- Mix well until combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the bake is puffy and light golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the egg mixture. If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar or Swiss can work as substitutes. Ensure you beat the eggs well to create a fluffy texture. Also, using fresh herbs like chives or parsley can elevate the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This Egg and Ham Bake is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a fresh Sunday Spinach Salad. Serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a slice of crusty bread for a hearty meal. You can also offer a side of fruit for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Egg And Ham Bake contains roughly 159 calories, with 10g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value). 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 use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Each cheese will impart a different flavor, so choose one that suits your taste.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make a lighter version, consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs and low-fat cottage cheese. You can also reduce the amount of ham or replace it with diced turkey or a plant-based alternative.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the mixture the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake it the next day, adjusting the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).