Amazing Easy Ham Egg and Cheese Bake
Amazing Easy Ham Egg and Cheese Bake
Introduction
Looking for a simple yet satisfying breakfast or brunch that everyone will adore? This Amazing Easy Ham Egg and Cheese Bake is your answer! Each bite is bursting with savory ham, fluffy eggs, and a gooey melted cheese topping, making every morning feel special and effortlessly delicious. It’s a comforting dish that comes together with minimal effort, perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-Monterey Jack blend), divided
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of dry mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish (or an 8x8 inch dish for a thicker bake) with 1 tablespoon of butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Whisk Eggs & Seasonings: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and dry mustard (if using) until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Layer Ham & Cheese: Spread the diced ham evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle about 1 cup of the shredded cheese over the ham.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the ham and cheese in the baking dish.
- Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the egg mixture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set in the center and the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Rest & Serve: Remove the bake from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the bake to set further and makes for cleaner slices.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can make the eggs rubbery. Keep an eye on it and remove it once the center is just set.
- Make Ahead Option: You can assemble the bake the night before. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, uncover and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Customizable Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, cooked mushrooms, or crumbled cooked bacon for variety. Just be sure to pre-cook any vegetables that release a lot of water.
- Cheese Varieties: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Swiss, or even a touch of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Serving Suggestions: This bake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, toast, or a simple green salad.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use fresh ham instead of pre-cooked? A: Yes, but ensure it's fully cooked and diced before adding it to the bake. Leftover holiday ham is perfect for this recipe!
- Q: Can I freeze this ham and egg bake? A: While technically possible, the texture of eggs can change significantly after freezing and thawing, becoming a bit watery or rubbery. We recommend enjoying it fresh or refrigerating leftovers for up to 3 days.
- Q: What if I don't have a 9x13 inch baking dish? A: An 8x8 inch square dish will work, but your bake will be thicker and may require a slightly longer baking time (an additional 5-10 minutes). Keep an eye on it to ensure it's fully set in the center.
- Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe? A: Absolutely! Sautéed onions, bell peppers, spinach (squeezed dry), or mushrooms would be delicious additions. Just be sure to pre-cook them to release moisture before adding to avoid a watery bake.