Ham-Cheese Delight(Club Member: Mindy Daniels)
A savory baked casserole featuring ham, cheese, and onions, perfect for brunch or family dinners with rich, comforting flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chopped onion in butter until tender.
- Add the cooked ham, beaten eggs, shredded cheese, cracker crumbs, milk, and pepper to the onion and butter mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Turn the mixture into a 10 x 6 x 11 1/2-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a pinch of garlic powder to the mixture. If you don’t have fine cracker crumbs, crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs work well as substitutes. You can also use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for added depth. Ensure the ham is well-drained to prevent excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for brunch or a light dinner. Serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like the Ham Dinner Omelet or can be enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread for a heartier option. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure they are evenly warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham-Cheese Delight(Club Member: Mindy Daniels) contains roughly 810 calories, with 16g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1097mg per serving (48% 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 ham instead of cooked ham?
Using fresh ham is not recommended as it needs to be fully cooked before consuming. Stick to finely chopped cooked ham to ensure food safety and proper texture in your dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake it fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
A good melting cheese like cheddar or a blend of cheeses works best. Feel free to experiment with different types such as Gruyère or Pepper Jack for a unique twist on 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).