This Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole is a family favorite! Packed with fluffy eggs, savory ham, and lots of gooey cheese, it’s perfect for a festive brunch.
I love how easy it is to prepare—just mix everything together and bake! It’s a great way to use up leftover ham, plus who can resist that cheesy goodness? Yum! 🐣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are crucial for binding the casserole. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using egg whites, but remember the texture might change a bit.
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture. If you want to make it lighter, low-fat or almond milk can work too, but the casserole may be a little less rich.
Bread: Day-old French bread or brioche absorbs the egg mixture well, making the casserole soft. If you don’t have these, any bread like sourdough or whole wheat bread will also do. Just cut it into cubes!
Ham: Diced cooked ham adds flavor. If you’re vegetarian or don’t have ham, you can substitute with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a delicious veggie option.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic! Mixing cheddar with Monterey Jack adds creaminess. If you want to switch things up, try pepper jack for a bit of spice, or go dairy-free with a vegan cheese alternative.
How Do You Ensure the Bread Absorbs the Egg Mixture Well?
Allowing the bread to soak up the egg mixture is key to a moist casserole. Here’s how to do it right:
- Press the bread cubes gently after pouring the egg mixture to help them absorb.
- Cover and refrigerate the casserole for at least an hour, but overnight is best. This gives the flavors time to meld.
- Before baking, check if the bread has soaked up the liquid. If it still looks dry on top, gently press down again.
How to Make Easter Cheesy Ham And Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 4 cups bread cubes (preferably day-old French bread or brioche)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley, chopped
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing the casserole dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 20 minutes to prep and 45-55 minutes to bake, plus at least 1 hour for chilling in the fridge. If you can, letting it sit overnight is even better for flavor. So make sure to plan ahead if you can!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish or something similar in size, and grease it up with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
Now, let’s build our casserole! Start by spreading the bread cubes evenly on the bottom of the prepared dish. This will be the lovely base for your casserole.
3. Add the Ham and Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the diced ham all over the bread cubes. It’s going to add a nice hearty flavor! After that, take 1 cup of the shredded cheese and sprinkle it over the ham and bread evenly. You can already smell the deliciousness!
4. Create the Egg Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Mix it well until it’s nice and combined. This mixture will bind everything together and make it fluffy!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour that egg mixture evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese layers in your casserole dish. Make sure to press down lightly on the bread cubes to help them soak up all that egg goodness. This step is key for a moist casserole!
6. Chill Time:
Cover your casserole dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you can wait. This allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture.
7. Bake It Up:
When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven if you haven’t already, and pull the casserole out of the fridge. Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top. Bake it in the oven for 45-55 minutes, until it’s set in the center and the top is a beautiful golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a little color before serving. Let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This will help it set, making it easier to slice and serve warm.
Enjoy your hearty Easter breakfast casserole with a side of orange juice and your favorite morning beverage!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Casserole?
Absolutely! While day-old French bread or brioche works best for soaking up the egg mixture, you can also use sourdough, whole wheat, or any other bread you have on hand. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up during baking!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! In fact, preparing it the night before allows the bread to absorb more of the egg mixture, enhancing the flavors. Just remember to cover it well and refrigerate it overnight!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Can I Substitute the Ham with Something Else?
Definitely! If you prefer a vegetarian option or don’t have ham, try using sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You could also use cooked sausage or bacon for a different twist!