Ham & Cheese Egg Bake
Egg bakes are a fantastic way to start your day, and this Ham & Cheese Egg Bake is no exception. Packed with protein and flavor, it’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that everyone from kids to adults will enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this Ham & Cheese Egg Bake has countless benefits. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weekday morning or to serve as a hearty dish for a weekend brunch gathering. The combination of eggs, cheese, and ham creates a flavorful base that is customizable with your favorite ingredients. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, feeding a hungry family, or looking for an easy morning meal, this recipe delivers satisfying results. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious egg bake at home.
How to Make Ham & Cheese Egg Bake
Ingredients
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-jack blend)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing dish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter to ensure easy serving later.
-
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until everything is well combined.
-
Stir in the diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing thoroughly to ensure that the ham and cheese are evenly distributed.
-
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
-
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden and slightly crispy.
-
Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Pro Tip: For added flavor, consider incorporating sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach into the mix. This dish rewarms wonderfully, making it perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.
Pro Tips for Success Ham & Cheese Egg Bake
-
Don’t Overbeat the Eggs: When whisking your eggs with the milk, avoid overbeating. A gentle mix will create a fluffier texture when baked.
-
Let it Rest: Allowing the egg bake to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it settle, making it easier to slice without falling apart.
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality cheese can greatly enhance the flavor of the dish.
-
Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Proper seasoning is key to the overall taste. Don’t hesitate to adjust spices to suit your palate.
-
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to throw in your favorite ingredients or whatever leftovers you have on hand for added texture and flavor.
-
Garnish Wisely: Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley not only elevates the dish’s presentation but also its flavor profile.
Flavor Variations Ham & Cheese Egg Bake
To keep things interesting, consider trying these flavor variations:
-
Veggie Lovers: Add spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms for a nutritious boost.
-
Southwestern Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños and use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
-
Italian Style: Swap out the ham for Italian sausage and add sun-dried tomatoes along with mozzarella cheese.
-
Bacon Upgrade: For a smoky flavor, substitute diced cooked bacon for the ham.
-
Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a garden-fresh taste.
Serving Suggestions Ham & Cheese Egg Bake
This Ham & Cheese Egg Bake can be served in various delightful ways:
-
Classic Breakfast: Enjoy it warm straight from the oven with a side of toast and freshly squeezed orange juice.
-
Brunch Spread: Serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad and pastries for a charming brunch table.
-
Make It a Meal: Pair with a mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a well-rounded meal any time of day.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Ham & Cheese Egg Bake
Proper storage can help you enjoy your Ham & Cheese Egg Bake beyond its first serving:
-
Refrigerating Leftovers: After baking, cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
-
Freezing: You can freeze individual slices of the egg bake. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
-
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|———–|————–|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbs | 8g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
FAQ About Ham & Cheese Egg Bake
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is the traditional choice, you can experiment with a variety of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even feta for some zest. Just ensure that the cheese you select melts well.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the egg mixture the night before is a great time-saver. Store it in the refrigerator and pour it into your greased baking dish in the morning before baking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Ham & Cheese Egg Bake is perfect for meal prep. It can be made in advance, kept stored in the fridge, and portioned out for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
How do I know when the egg bake is done?
The egg bake is done when the center is set and firm, and the top has a golden brown appearance. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bake is ready.
Can I substitute the ham with something else?
Yes! If you’d prefer not to use ham, you can substitute it with diced cooked chicken, turkey, or even keep it vegetarian by adding extra veggies.
What is the best way to garnish this dish?
Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil can add a fresh touch to your Ham & Cheese Egg Bake and enhance its visual appeal. A dollop of sour cream or a side of salsa also pairs beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Ham & Cheese Egg Bake is a terrific breakfast option that is not only easy to prepare but also customization-friendly. Perfect for various occasions, from busy mornings to holiday brunches, this dish stands out with its delicious flavors and simple ingredients. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your special twist, you’ll find this egg bake will quickly become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a hearty meal that’s sure to delight everyone at the table!
Print
Ham & Cheese Egg Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A protein-packed Ham & Cheese Egg Bake, perfect for breakfast or brunch, easy to prepare and customizable.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-jack blend)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing dish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
- Stir in the diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden and slightly crispy.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, consider incorporating sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach into the mix.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 410mg
