This Easter Cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole is a warm and tasty dish perfect for brunch! It’s packed with fluffy eggs, savory ham, and lots of gooey cheese that melts beautifully.
Making this casserole is a breeze! Just mix everything up, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. I love serving it with fresh fruit on the side—so colorful and delightful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: The backbone of this casserole, eggs create a fluffy texture. Large eggs work best, but if you prefer, you can use medium eggs. For a lighter version, try egg whites or egg substitute, but keep in mind the texture will change.
Whole Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lower-fat version, you can use 2% milk, almond milk, or oat milk. Just note that nut milks may slightly alter the flavor.
Diced Cooked Ham: Any cooked ham works, like leftover holiday ham or deli ham. For a vegetarian option, substitute with sautéed vegetables or mushrooms for a hearty twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives that classic cheesy taste. While sharp cheddar is my favorite for depth, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor. A vegan cheese could work too!
Green Onions or Chives: These add a fresh finish. If you don’t have them, a sprinkle of fresh parsley can brighten the dish, or even skip the garnish altogether for a simpler look.
How Can I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Set?
One common concern with casseroles is how to tell when they’re done. To achieve that perfect set, follow these tips:
- Preheat your oven properly. A consistent temperature is key for cooking through.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center. It should come out clean. If it’s still runny, give it more baking time.
- If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning while the center cooks.
Letting it cool for a few minutes before serving allows the casserole to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy your Easter celebration!
How to Make Easter Cheesy Ham And Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 10 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be ready to serve it in about 50 minutes. Perfect for a festive Easter breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with butter to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack open the 10 large eggs. Add the whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk it all together until the mixture is well combined and looks smooth.
3. Add Ham and Cheese:
Next, stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and the diced ham. Mix everything gently until the cheese and ham are evenly distributed throughout the egg mixture.
4. Pour and Spread:
Now, carefully pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
5. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the egg mixture. This will create a lovely, cheesy crust as it bakes!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is set in the middle and the top is golden brown. If it jiggles too much, give it a bit more time.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes to set. This helps it firm up for easy slicing. Just before serving, garnish with chopped green onions or chives for a pop of color and flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice it up and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy Easter ham and egg casserole with family and friends!
Can I Use Leftover Ham for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This casserole is a great way to use up leftover ham from previous meals or holidays. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and diced before adding it to the mixture.
What Other Cheeses Can I Use Instead of Cheddar?
While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of your favorites would work well. Just keep the total amount around 2 cups combined.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk when reheating can help keep it moist.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it before baking the next day. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator!
