Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Bread: Provides the base and structure for the casserole, soaking up the egg mixture to create a fluffy texture.

Ham: Adds a savory, meaty flavor to the dish. Use diced ham for even distribution.

Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy taste. Shredded cheddar is ideal for this recipe.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and give the casserole its custard-like consistency.

Milk: Combines with the eggs to create a smooth, creamy mixture that soaks into the bread.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the overall flavor.

When preparing the bread for the casserole, consider using slightly stale bread instead of fresh. Stale bread will absorb the egg mixture more effectively, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful casserole. Additionally, you can lightly toast the bread cubes in the oven for a few minutes before combining them with the other ingredients to enhance their texture and prevent them from becoming too soggy.

• cubed bread - Substitute with cubed whole grain bread: Adds more fiber and nutrients.

• cubed bread - Substitute with cubed gluten-free bread: Suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

• diced ham - Substitute with diced turkey: Lower in fat and calories.

• diced ham - Substitute with diced tofu: A vegetarian option that provides protein.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers a milder flavor and melts well.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded vegan cheese: Suitable for a dairy-free diet.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Ideal for those with egg allergies or following a vegan diet.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: A vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: A dairy-free option that is lower in calories.

• milk - Substitute with soy milk: A dairy-free option that is higher in protein.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Contains more minerals and a different flavor profile.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: Provides a milder pepper flavor and a different color.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the casserole to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To freeze, cut the cooled casserole into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and contents. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole portions in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave on medium power until warm.
• For a crispier top, consider reheating in the oven rather than the microwave.
• Always check that the casserole is heated thoroughly before serving.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover ham and cheese breakfast casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the top crisp up slightly.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. If not heated through, continue to microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the skillet.
  3. Place a portion of the casserole in the skillet.
  4. Cover the skillet with a lid to help retain heat and moisture.
  5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the casserole is heated through.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
  2. Place a portion of the casserole in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. If necessary, continue to heat in 2-minute intervals until warmed through.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine the cubed bread, diced ham, and shredded cheddar cheese.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs and mix them with milk, salt, and black pepper.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the milk, ham, and cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and black pepper.

• Baking dish: A greased dish to pour the mixture into before baking.

• Knife: For dicing the ham and cubing the bread.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely dice the ham and cube the bread.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring the egg mixture with the bread mixture and for serving the casserole.

• Oven mitts: To safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Cube the bread and dice the ham the night before to save time in the morning.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to cut down on prep time.

Mix in one bowl: Combine the bread, ham, and cheese in the same bowl to reduce cleanup.

Pre-grease the dish: Grease the baking dish ahead of time so it's ready to go.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick breakfast later.