This Ham Egg and Cheese Bake is a warm and hearty dish, perfect for breakfast or brunch! Loaded with tasty ham, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese, it’s simply delightful.
It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! I love making this dish ahead of time—it’s so easy to pop in the oven and enjoy fresh out. Perfect with a smile and a cup of coffee!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
English Muffins: These give a nice texture, but you can substitute with leftover bread or bagels if needed. Stale bread works great here, adding a lovely chewiness.
Diced Cooked Ham: If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, try turkey ham or even cooked bacon. For a vegetarian option, swap in sautéed vegetables or tofu for a delicious twist.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you can’t find it, feel free to use mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese to fit dietary needs.
Eggs: This recipe uses large eggs, but if you’re short on eggs, you can substitute with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tbsp seed + 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg) for a vegan option.
Milk: You can replace regular milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any other milk of your choice to accommodate dietary preferences.
How Do I Ensure My Egg Bake is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the ham, egg, and cheese bake just right can be tricky. You want it to be fully set without being dry. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature, as starting hot is crucial for even cooking.
- After pouring the egg mixture over the muffins and ham, gently stir. This helps the egg soak in without disrupting the texture.
- Keep an eye on it in the oven! Start checking at 35 minutes. If a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, it’s done.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers settle and enhances flavors.
How to Make Ham, Egg, and Cheese Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 English muffins, diced
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ham, Egg, and Cheese Bake will take about 10 minutes for prep time and 35-40 minutes for baking. Allow for some cooling time before serving. All in all, you’ll be enjoying this hearty dish in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven is heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it lightly with cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced English muffins, cooked ham, and 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Use a spoon or spatula to toss everything together until it’s nicely mixed.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In another bowl, take your 8 large eggs and crack them in. Add the milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and frothy.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the English muffin and ham mixture in your baking dish. Use a spoon to gently stir everything together, making sure that all the muffin pieces soak up some of the egg goodness.
5. Add Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. This will create a tasty cheesy crust while baking!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Put the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s baked to perfection, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This will help it set up a little more. Before serving, sprinkle the top with the chopped fresh parsley for a lovely touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve your warm and hearty ham, egg, and cheese bake. Enjoy this delicious dish with family and friends, and don’t hesitate to go back for a second helping!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with other varieties like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a pepper jack for some heat. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly based on your cheese choice!
What if I Have Leftover Ingredients?
If you have leftover ham or muffins, feel free to adjust the quantities in the recipe! You can also use any other cooked meats or even veggies to mix it up. Just ensure you maintain roughly the same total volume for best results.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply replace the English muffins with a gluten-free alternative. There are many gluten-free muffin options available that can work well in this recipe, so just choose your favorite!
How to 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 oven until warmed through. If you want to freeze it, cut it into portions and freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the oven after thawing!
