Ham, Egg, Cheese Boats
Ham, egg, and cheese stuffed bread boats combine hearty flavors with fresh vegetables, perfect for brunch or casual gatherings, offering a savory and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Halve the French bread lengthwise.
- Pull out some of the insides to create shallow hollows in each half.
- Broil the bread boats for 1 to 2 minutes until slightly toasted.
- Mix the mustard and pepper into the mayonnaise.
- Mash the hard-cooked eggs in a bowl.
- Add the chunk ham, chopped green pepper, and mayonnaise mixture to the eggs and combine.
- Spoon the egg and ham mixture into the hollowed bread halves.
- Top each with tomato slices and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Broil just until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced onions or mushrooms to the egg and ham mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. You can also use whole grain bread for added nutrition. Be sure to toast the bread well to prevent it from getting soggy when adding the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Ham, Egg, Cheese Boats alongside a fresh garden salad or some Skillet Potatoes Au Gratin for a complete meal. They also make a great brunch option when paired with a fruit platter or a light soup like Bacon Cheddar Potato Soup. For extra flavor, drizzle with hot sauce or serve with a side of pickles.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the boats under the broiler for a few minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. Alternatively, a microwave can be used, but this may result in a softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham, Egg, Cheese Boats contains roughly 849 calories, with 31g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (102% of the Daily Value), calcium (70% of the Daily Value), and protein (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1339mg per serving (58% 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 a different type of bread?
Yes, while French bread is traditional, you can substitute with Italian bread, hoagie rolls, or even pita pockets for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure the bread can hold the filling without falling apart.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also include some crumbled feta or mozzarella cheese for added flavor.
Can I prepare these boats in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the boats just before broiling for the best texture. This makes it easy to serve for brunch gatherings or busy weekday meals.
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).