Overnight Ham Casserole
A comforting overnight ham casserole featuring savory bacon, tender ham, and creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners or brunch gatherings with rich, hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute bacon until crispy, break into pieces, and return to pan. Remove half of the bacon fat.
- Add the cubed ham and 1/4 cup butter to the remaining bacon fat in the pan.
- Sprinkle flour over the ham and butter mixture and mix well to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly, and cook until the mixture thickens. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper.
- Set the cooked mixture aside. Beat eggs into the evaporated milk, add 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Melt 1/4 cup butter in a large skillet, add the egg mixture and scramble until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter version. If you prefer, swap ham with leftover roasted chicken or turkey. Make sure to sauté the bacon until crispy for the best flavor, and don't rush the roux preparation to ensure it thickens properly. This recipe is also great for serving a large crowd.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Overnight Ham Casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or rolls. For breakfast or brunch, consider serving alongside fresh fruit or yogurt to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Ensure it's heated evenly before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Overnight Ham Casserole contains roughly 1650 calories, with 7g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 169g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 662mg per serving (29% 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 the casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of baking, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk, you can make a substitute by mixing equal parts of whole milk and heavy cream. Alternatively, you can use regular milk, but the texture may be slightly less rich. Adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This makes it a convenient option for busy days.
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).