Egg-Cheese-Ham Bake
A hearty baked egg casserole layered with bread, cheese, ham, mushrooms, and onions, perfect for brunch or family gatherings with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the bread into small squares.
- Put half of the bread in a buttered long cake pan.
- Pour half of the melted butter over the bread.
- Layer the remaining bread, butter, half of the cheese, one can of mushrooms, onions, and half of the ham.
- Mix together milk, salt, paprika, and eggs.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don’t have stale bread, you can toast fresh bread to dry it out slightly. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like Swiss or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor. Adding herbs like thyme or chives can enhance the dish dramatically. This recipe is adaptable to various tastes, similar to American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Egg-Cheese-Ham Bake warm, garnished with fresh herbs for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of mixed greens or a light fruit salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside Sandra Faye'S Stuffed Pumpkin for a festive touch. This dish is perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast.
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 1-2 minutes, or bake in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through. This dish also freezes well; just wrap portions tightly and store for up to a month.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Egg-Cheese-Ham Bake contains roughly 873 calories, with 24g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (63% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1851mg per serving (80% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is ideal for making ahead. After assembling, cover it and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for easy baking in the morning. It’s great for brunches or busy weekdays when you want a hearty meal ready to go.
What can I substitute for the ham?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the ham entirely or replace it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Alternatively, cooked sausage or turkey bacon can be used for a different flavor profile while keeping the dish satisfying.
How do I know when the bake is done?
The Egg-Cheese-Ham Bake is done when it is puffed up, golden brown on top, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If it seems to be browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil during the last few 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).