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Easy Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe for a Crowd at Home

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A warm, comforting breakfast casserole featuring ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and custard-soaked bread, perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal prep time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups diced cooked ham
  • 6 cups cubed sturdy bread (French bread or sourdough, day-old preferred)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 8 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch casserole dish with melted butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Cube the bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. Use day-old bread if possible.
  3. Dice the cooked ham into bite-sized pieces, about 1/2-inch cubes. Set aside.
  4. In the greased casserole dish, evenly layer the bread cubes, then sprinkle the diced ham evenly over the top. Follow with the shredded cheddar cheese, spreading it out evenly.
  5. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and onion powder until fully combined and slightly frothy (about 1-2 minutes).
  6. Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese. Use a spatula or spoon to gently press down the bread so it soaks up the custard.
  7. Allow the casserole to sit for 10-15 minutes before baking to let the bread absorb the custard.
  8. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set (a knife inserted in the center should come out clean). Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  9. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh herbs like chives or parsley if desired.

Notes

Use day-old bread or lightly toast fresh bread cubes to prevent sogginess. Let the casserole rest 10-15 minutes before baking to allow the bread to soak up the custard. Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly. Can be assembled the night before and baked with an additional 10 minutes baking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham and cheese casserole, breakfast casserole, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, crowd-pleaser, make ahead casserole

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/easy-ham-and-cheese-breakfast-casserole-recipe-for-a-crowd-at-home/