Why Make This Recipe
The Hearty Beef Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic way to start your day. It’s filling, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you have a busy morning ahead or want a delicious brunch option, this casserole simplifies breakfast without sacrificing flavor. Loaded with protein from the eggs and beef ham, combined with gooey cheese and buttery bread, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, making your mornings stress-free.
How to Make Hearty Beef Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole with Eggs
Ingredients:
- 6-8 cups cubed day-old bread (sourdough, challah, or white sandwich bread)
- 1.5-2 cups diced pre-cooked beef ham
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 10-12 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (or a combination of milk and cream)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Optional: sautéed vegetables (finely diced onions, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Spread the cubed day-old bread evenly in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the diced beef ham evenly over the bread cubes, then distribute about half of your shredded cheese over the beef ham. If using optional sautéed vegetables, add them now.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layers in the baking dish, ensuring all bread cubes are saturated.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight.
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator 20-30 minutes before baking. Uncover and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, set in the center, and golden brown on top.
- Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives if desired.
How to Serve Hearty Beef Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole
This hearty casserole is best served warm. Slice it into squares and serve it on a plate. You can pair it with fresh fruit or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, serve with hot sauce or salsa on the side.
How to Store Hearty Beef Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will keep for about 3 to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven until it’s warm throughout. If you want to store it for a longer time, consider freezing individual portions. Wrap them well and place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Hearty Beef Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole
- Use day-old bread for the best texture; it soaks up the egg mixture well.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or different types of cheese.
- Let the casserole sit for the recommended time before baking. This helps flavors meld and ensures the bread is fully soaked.
- If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the overnight step, but the casserole tastes better if it has time to sit.
Variation
You can switch out beef ham for other meats like sausage or turkey for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meat and load up on more vegetables.
FAQs
-
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
Yes, you can use fresh bread, but you might need to dry it out slightly by toasting it or leaving it out for a few hours. -
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Absolutely! Preparing it overnight allows the flavors to come together beautifully. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking. -
What kind of cheese can I use?
While sharp cheddar is recommended, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a blend of your favorites.
Hearty Beef Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A filling and delicious breakfast casserole loaded with beef ham, cheese, and eggs, perfect for brunch or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- 6–8 cups cubed day-old bread (sourdough, challah, or white sandwich bread)
- 1.5–2 cups diced pre-cooked beef ham
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 10–12 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (or a combination of milk and cream)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Optional: sautéed vegetables (finely diced onions, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Spread the cubed day-old bread evenly in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the diced beef ham evenly over the bread cubes, then distribute about half of your shredded cheese over the beef ham. If using optional sautéed vegetables, add them now.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layers in the baking dish, ensuring all bread cubes are saturated.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight.
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator 20-30 minutes before baking. Uncover and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, set in the center, and golden brown on top.
- Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Notes
Use day-old bread for the best texture. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or different types of cheese.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 300mg
