Description
This easy Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a cozy, make-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunch. Fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and savory diced ham come together in a golden, baked dish that’s hearty, family-friendly, and ready in under an hour. It’s simple to prep, easy to customize, and reheats beautifully for meal prep or leftovers.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter (plus more for greasing the dish)
- 1 teaspoon butter (for sautéing vegetables)
- ½ small yellow onion, diced small
- ½ medium bell pepper, any color, diced small
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend if needed)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- 1 cup milk, divided
- 6 large eggs, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 8–10 ounces diced ham
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F. Grease the bottom and sides of a 2½-quart casserole dish (or 9×9-inch baking dish) with butter.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a small skillet, melt 1 teaspoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until tender. Set aside.
- Prepare the Batter Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ cup milk, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Mix until smooth, with only a few small lumps.
- Layer the Batter and Cheese: Pour the batter evenly into the greased baking dish. Spread it gently with a spatula, then sprinkle ¾ cup of shredded cheese on top.
- Add the Egg and Ham Mixture: In the same bowl, whisk the remaining 5 eggs, ½ cup milk, and 1 tablespoon melted butter. Stir in the sautéed vegetables and diced ham. Pour this mixture over the batter layer and cheese.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 33–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Make Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning.
- Variations: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.
- Cheese Options: Try swapping cheddar with Swiss, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with fruit salad, hash browns, or toast for a complete breakfast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: American
