This Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole is a wonderful way to celebrate! Filled with tasty ham, eggs, and lots of gooey cheese, it’s perfect for brunch with family and friends.
Trust me, there’s nothing better than waking up to the smell of this dish baking! I love serving it with fresh fruit on the side. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Day-old bread is key for this casserole as it soaks up the egg mixture without getting too soggy. My favorites are French bread or brioche for their flavor and texture. If you don’t have day-old bread, you can lightly toast fresh bread first.
Ham: Diced cooked ham adds great flavor. You can easily swap it for cooked turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms or spinach if you’re looking for a meat-free version.
Cheese: The blend of cheddar and mozzarella gives creamy texture and rich flavor. If you like it spicy, pepper jack works great! For a milder taste, try using Monterey Jack or even a combination of cheese you love.
Eggs: Large eggs create the custard base, which is essential for the casserole to rise and set. If you need a substitute, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) for a vegan option.
Thyme: Fresh thyme brightens the flavor, but dried thyme is a fine substitute. Herb alternatives like oregano or parsley also work well depending on your taste preference!
How Do You Ensure a Perfectly Baked Casserole?
Getting the right texture with this casserole is all about soaking and baking properly. Allow the bread to soak in the egg mixture for at least 10-15 minutes, which helps it absorb the flavors and stay moist.
- After whisking the egg mixture, pour it evenly over your bread and ham and gently press down to encourage the bread to soak.
- Keep an eye on baking time; all ovens are different. You want it puffed and golden, with a slight jiggle in the center. If it browns too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking.
- Let the casserole sit after baking to help it firm up, making it easier to cut and serve!
How to Make Easter Cheesy Ham And Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (French bread or brioche works well)
- 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
- Butter or non-stick spray, for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 20 minutes to prepare and will need an additional 45 to 55 minutes to bake in the oven. Allow another 10 minutes for it to rest before serving, so plan for a total of about 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, take a 9×13 inch casserole dish and grease it with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking later on.
2. Layer the Bread and Ham:
Spread the cubed day-old bread evenly across the greased casserole dish. This will form the base of your casserole. Next, sprinkle the diced cooked ham evenly over the bread cubes so that every bite has some ham goodness.
3. Add the Cheese:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Then, sprinkle half of this cheese mixture over the ham and bread in the dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for a tasty layer.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, dry mustard powder, salt, pepper, thyme, and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). Mix until everything is well combined; this will create a creamy custard that brings it all together!
5. Combine and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese layers in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread with a fork or spatula to help it soak up the rich egg mixture.
6. Final Cheese Layer:
Now, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of your casserole to create a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes.
7. Let it Rest:
Allow the casserole to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time is crucial as it gives the bread a chance to truly absorb the flavors and moisture from the egg mixture.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes. You’re looking for a puffed-up, golden brown top and set eggs—watch for that perfect color!
9. Cool Before Serving:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This will help it firm up and make it easier to cut and serve.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
For a lovely finishing touch, garnish with a few fresh thyme leaves if you like, and serve warm. Enjoy this delightful dish at your Easter brunch or any special occasion!
Can I Use Fresh Bread Instead of Day-Old Bread?
Yes, you can use fresh bread, but it’s best to lightly toast it first to help it avoid becoming too soggy when soaked in the egg mixture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the casserole the night before by assembling all the layers and covering it tightly with plastic wrap. Just pop it in the fridge and bake it the next morning, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.
Can I Substitute the Ham with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can replace the ham with cooked turkey, chicken, or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just ensure any meat you use is diced and pre-cooked.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave, warming it gently until heated through.
