Ham And Cheese Bake
A hearty ham and cheese casserole layered with broccoli and creamy cheese, baked to perfection—ideal for family dinners or potlucks, offering cheesy, savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 6 slices of bread on the bottom of a 12 x 8-inch baking dish. Cover with 1 cup of Cheddar cheese.
- Add chopped ham and thawed, drained broccoli, then top with remaining bread slices.
- Beat cream cheese until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time; mix well after each addition.
- Blend in milk and dry mustard until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread in the dish.
- Top with the remaining Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing in some sour cream or Greek yogurt with the cream cheese. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Swiss or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. If you want to add more veggies, try incorporating diced bell peppers or mushrooms. For a twist, add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, such as thyme or oregano.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ham And Cheese Bake with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Sweet Hot Pickles for a tangy contrast. For breakfast or brunch, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait. This dish is also a great addition to any potluck or family gathering.
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 until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated thoroughly. This dish holds up well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheese Bake contains roughly 644 calories, with 18g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (37% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 747mg per serving (32% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh broccoli, steam it lightly before adding it to the dish to ensure it cooks through during baking. Fresh vegetables can add a vibrant color and texture to the bake, enhancing the overall dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Ham And Cheese Bake a day in advance. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerate overnight. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding more vegetables like sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts. You may also increase the amount of cheese for added flavor and richness.
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).