Okay, picture this: it’s a chilly Sunday morning, the kind where the sun is trying its best to peek through the clouds, and the aroma of something warm and cheesy is wafting from the kitchen. That, my friend, is the magic of a good Ham and Cheese Casserole. This isn’t just any casserole; it’s the kind that brings back childhood memories, the one that makes everyone gather around the table with eager smiles. It’s comfort food at its finest, but with a touch of elegance that makes it perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a simple dinner. Think of it as a leveled-up grilled cheese sandwich – all the cheesy, hammy goodness, but baked to golden perfection. You’ve probably seen basic casseroles, but this Ham and Cheese Casserole Recipe takes things to a whole new level.
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What is ham and cheese casserole?
Simply put, a Ham and Cheese Casserole is a baked dish that layers bread, ham, cheese, and a creamy custard-like sauce. It’s a one-dish wonder that combines all the best elements of a comforting sandwich into something warm and satisfying. Think of it as a savory bread pudding, but instead of sweet ingredients, we’re using ham and cheese to create a flavor explosion. It’s essentially a way to elevate your leftovers (hello, holiday ham!) into something completely new and exciting. The name says it all, really, but the beauty of this dish is that it’s endlessly adaptable. You can swap out cheeses, add veggies, or even use different types of bread to create your own signature version. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity, but at its heart, it’s always a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious meal.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Alright, let me tell you why this Ham and Cheese Casserole Recipe is a winner. First and foremost, the flavor is absolutely incredible. The combination of savory ham, melty cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce is just divine. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to savor every single bite.
What I love most is how easy it is to make. Seriously, this is a recipe that even a beginner cook can nail. It requires minimal prep time and effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. I’ve made this for potlucks, family dinners, and even casual brunches, and it’s always a hit.
Cost-efficiency is another huge plus. The ingredients are relatively inexpensive and easy to find. You can even use leftover ham from a holiday meal, making it a great way to reduce food waste.
It’s so versatile! You can serve it for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. It’s equally delicious served hot or cold, making it a great option for meal prepping. And speaking of versatile, have you ever considered adding a layer of thinly sliced apples? Trust me, it adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory ham and cheese. I’ve tried many similar recipes, but this one always comes out on top because it’s the perfect balance of flavor, ease, and affordability. It’s truly a staple in my kitchen, and I know it will be in yours too!
How do you make ham and cheese casserole?
Quick Overview
Making this Ham and Cheese Casserole is surprisingly simple. You’ll start by layering cubed bread, ham, and cheese in a baking dish. Then, you’ll whisk together a creamy custard-like mixture of eggs, milk, and seasonings, and pour it over the bread and ham. Let it sit for a bit to soak, then bake until golden brown and bubbly. That’s really all there is to it! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s forgiving and adaptable, so don’t worry if you don’t get it perfect the first time. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover bread and ham, and it always delivers a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
* 1 loaf of day-old bread, such as French or Italian, cut into 1-inch cubes. I prefer a slightly crusty bread for the best texture, but any bread will do in pinch.
* 2 cups of cubed cooked ham. Leftover holiday sausage is perfect! If you don’t have leftover ham, you can make a deli sandwich. Just be sure to get a good quality ham for the best flavor.
* 2 cups of shredded cheese. I like a combination of cheddar and gruyere, but you can use your favorite cheese. What are some good substitutes for Monterey Jack?
* 6 large eggs. Use room temperature eggs for the best results. Is it possible to incorporate a few of these into the milk mixture?
* 3 cups of milk. I usually use whole milk for a richer flavor, but 2% or even almond milk will work just fine. I tested this recipe with oat milk once, and it was surprisingly delicious!
* 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. What are some of the best ways to add tang to a casserole?
* 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
* 1/4 teaspoon of Black Pepper.
* 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. * 2 tablespoons of butter, melted.
How do I follow
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. How do you keep a casserole from sticking? I always use a glass baking dish because it distributes the heat evenly. A metal pan will also work. Just keep an eye on the baking time as metal pans tend to cook faster.
Step 2: Layer Bread, Ham, and Cheese
In a prepared baking dish, layer half of the cubed bread, followed by half and half the ham, and serve. Half of the shredded cheese. Repeat with remaining bread, ham, and cheese. How do you distribute the ingredients so that every bite is packed with flavor? I like to gently press down on the layers to compact them slightly. How does custard soak into bread?
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Set aside. Whisk until smooth and well combined. What is the best custard to make a casserole? Why don’t you use Dijon mustard in your ham? It adds a subtle tanginess that really complements it.
Step 4: Pour Custard Over Bread Mixture
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it is fully submerged in the egg mixture. This will help the bread absorb the custard and prevent it from drying out during baking. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This allows the bread to fully soak up the custard, resulting in a more flavorful and moist casserole. If you’re short on time, you can skip the soaking step, but I highly recommend it for the best results.
Step 5: Bake
Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the casserole. This will give it a beautiful golden brown crust. Is it necessary to bake a casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes? To test for doneness, insert a knife into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. If not, continue baking for a few minutes.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. How do I cut a casserole? What are some good Side Dishes to serve with Ham and Cheese Casserole?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best ways to serve ham and cheese casserole?For Breakfast:Pair it with a glass of orange juice or iced coffee. I like to serve it with a side of fresh fruit, like berries or melon, for balanced and satisfying flavor.
For Brunch:What would be a good brunch spread if you served this casserole with steamed rice and ice cream? What’s a good green salad with lemon vinaigrette? What are some good ways to serve smoked salmon or avocado toast for brunch?
For Lunch:What are some of the best casseroles to serve on its own? I always pack it in my lunchbox with a side of carrot sticks and hummus. What are some good soups to make?
For Dinner: Serve this casserole with a side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus. A crusty loaf of bread is also a must for soaking up all the delicious cheesy sauce. And for dessert? A simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of apple pie would be the perfect ending to the meal.
My family loves when I serve this with a side of maple-glazed carrots – the sweetness of the carrots perfectly complements the savory ham and cheese.
How do you make a perfect ham and cheese casserole?
What are some of the best ways to take your ham and cheese casserole to the next level? How do I perfect this dish?Bread Selection: What areWhat type of bread do you use to make your casserole? I prefer a slightly crusty bread, like French or Italian, because it holds its shape better and adds flavor. I like the chewiness of the casserole. What are some of the best breads to use for a more decadent and tender meal? Just be sure to adjust the amount of egg mixture accordingly, as softer breads tend to absorb more water.What are the best cheeseDon’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese! Cheddar and Gruyere are a classic combination, but you can also try Monterey Jack, Swiss, provolone, etc. What is a blend of cheeses? If you’re feeling adventurous, add a touch of blue cheese or goat cheese for savory flavor. How do I use cheese that melts well?What are some variations onI usually use cooked ham for this recipe, but you can also use other types of cured meats, like oats or charcuterie. Can you serve bacon, sausage, or prosciut If you’re using bacon or sausage, be sure to cook it before adding it to the casserole. Add a touch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the egg mixture for smoky flavor.Vegetable AdditionWhat are some great ways to sneak in extra veggies in a casserole? You can add sautéed onions, peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or even broccoli to the casserole. Just be sure to cook the vegetables before adding them to the casserole to prevent them from making a thick sauce. Why is the casserole soggy?What are some of the best changes toHow much egg mixture you need depends on the type of bread you use and how much liquid it has. If you’re using a softer bread, you may need to reduce the amount of egg mixture slightly. If you’re using a drier bread, you may need to add more milk. How do you make a bread soggy?Baking Tips: To prevent the casserole from browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. You can also adjust the oven temperature slightly to prevent the casserole from burning. If you find that the casserole is still too wet after the recommended baking time, you can increase the oven temperature slightly and bake it for a few more minutes.
I learned the hard way that overbaking this casserole can result in a dry and rubbery texture. So, be sure to keep a close eye on it while it’s baking and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s golden brown and set.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
This Ham and Cheese Casserole is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.
Room Temperature: You can leave the casserole at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate it to prevent bacterial growth.
Refrigerator Storage: To store the casserole in the refrigerator, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best quality, I recommend reheating it within 2-3 days.
Freezer Instructions: This casserole can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze it, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to reheat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Reheating Tips: To reheat the casserole, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture may be slightly different. To prevent the casserole from drying out during reheating, you can add a splash of milk or cream to the dish before reheating.
One tip I always follow is to add a fresh layer of shredded cheese on top before reheating. This will give the casserole a fresh, cheesy flavor and prevent it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, my friend! The ultimate Ham and Cheese Casserole Recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s cheesy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make – what more could you ask for? Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing brunch dish, or a cozy weekend breakfast, this casserole has got you covered. If you enjoy this, you’ll love my chicken pot pie recipe too.
I truly believe that this recipe is special because it’s more than just a dish; it’s a memory waiting to be made. It’s the kind of recipe that gets passed down from generation to generation, each cook adding their own little twist and making it their own. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments below if you tried the recipe and what you did differently.
Happy baking!
Savory Vegetable and Cheese Breakfast Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup zucchini diced
- 1 cup bell peppers chopped
- 8 large eggs beaten
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 cups rustic bread cubed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add zucchini and bell peppers; cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper. Add cooked vegetables and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Layer half of the cubed bread in the prepared baking dish, pour half of the egg mixture evenly over the top, add the remaining bread, and pour the rest of the egg mixture.
- Sprinkle remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the casserole. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
