John Hancock Special
A hearty casserole featuring layers of ham, cheese, and bread baked in a creamy egg mixture, perfect for brunch or family dinners with comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut crusts from the bread; butter one side of each slice and place the buttered side down in a square cake pan.
- Mix chopped ham, mustard, salt, pepper, and onion powder; spread this mixture over the bread in the pan.
- Cover with slices of sharp Cheddar cheese and top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix with milk; pour this mixture evenly over the top layer of bread.
- Chill the casserole, covered, for 1 hour or leave in the refrigerator overnight.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour until golden and cooked through; serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using a different type of bread, like sourdough or whole grain, to enhance flavor. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ham can work as a substitute for fresh chopped ham. Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra nutrition. You can also replace sharp Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the John Hancock Special with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness of the casserole. It pairs wonderfully with Pineapple Tidbits for a sweet contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a hearty soup or a refreshing green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This dish can also be frozen before baking for later enjoyment.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of John Hancock Special contains roughly 673 calories, with 24g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (53% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1185mg per serving (52% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be prepared the night before. After assembling it, cover and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and you just need to bake it in the morning for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
Can I substitute the cheese used in the recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar is traditional, you can use any cheese that melts well, like Gouda or Swiss. Mixing different cheeses can also add depth to the flavor profile.
Is it necessary to chill the casserole before baking?
Chilling helps the bread absorb the egg and milk mixture, resulting in a creamier texture. However, if you're short on time, you can bake it immediately after assembly, but the texture may be less custardy.
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).