Four Egg Dish
A hearty overnight baked egg casserole layered with bread, ham, and cheese, perfect for brunch or breakfast gatherings with rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Place 8 slices of bread, buttered side up, in the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Spread diced ham and grated Cheddar cheese over the bread slices.
- Place the remaining 8 slices of bread, buttered side down, on top of the ham and cheese.
- Beat the eggs, add the milk, and pour the mixture over the assembled layers.
- Cover the pan and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the egg and milk mixture. You can also substitute the diced ham with cooked and crumbled sausage or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. If you're short on time, use pre-sliced cheese and deli ham to streamline preparation. This dish is reminiscent of the Pull-Apart Bacon Cheese Wreath in its comforting, cheesy goodness.
Serving Suggestions
This Four Egg Dish is perfect for brunch and pairs well with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside crispy breakfast potatoes or a side of hot ham and cheese sandwiches. It's also a great base for experimenting with different cheeses or adding spices to suit your taste.
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 cover the entire dish with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Four Egg Dish contains roughly 1026 calories, with 33g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (88% of the Daily Value), protein (66% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1224mg per serving (53% 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 this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is designed to be made ahead. After assembling the layers, cover and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld. This makes it an ideal option for a stress-free brunch or breakfast gathering.
What can I use instead of white bread?
You can substitute white bread with whole grain, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread to suit dietary preferences. Just ensure the bread has a good texture to hold the layers and soak up the egg mixture.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This is a great way to prepare meals in advance.
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).