Oh, let me tell you about the magic of an overnight breakfast dish! There’s something so comforting about waking up to the aroma of a warm, hearty casserole wafting through the house, and my Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole delivers just that. This dish is a fantastic blend of fluffy eggs, savory ham, and gooey cheese, all nestled between layers of bread. It’s perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends when you want something special without the fuss. Trust me, I love making this the night before, so all I have to do in the morning is pop it in the oven and enjoy my coffee while it bakes to perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
Ingredients List
- 8 slices of bread, preferably slightly stale for better texture
- 1 cup diced ham, any leftover ham works great!
- 1 cup shredded cheese, I love using cheddar, but feel free to mix it up!
- 6 large eggs, the fresher the better!
- 2 cups milk, whole or low-fat works just fine
- 1 teaspoon mustard, adds a nice tang!
- Salt to taste, I usually start with about a half teaspoon
- Pepper to taste, freshly cracked is best for flavor
How to Prepare Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Now, let’s dive into making this scrumptious Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how delicious it turns out.
Step 1: Layer the Base
First things first, grab a greased baking dish (9×13 works perfectly!). Start by laying down your 8 slices of bread—feel free to cut them into cubes or just lay them whole for a rustic look! Next, sprinkle that 1 cup of diced ham evenly over the bread. Oh, and don’t be shy with that ham; it adds so much flavor! Finally, top it all off with 1 cup of shredded cheese. I usually go for cheddar because it melts beautifully, but any cheese you love will work!
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, crack those 6 large eggs and whisk them together until they’re nice and frothy—this is where the magic happens! Then, pour in the 2 cups of milk, add 1 teaspoon of mustard, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Whisk it all together until everything is well combined. The mustard adds a lovely tang that really complements the ham and cheese, trust me!
Step 3: Combine and Refrigerate
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Pour your egg mixture over the layered bread, ham, and cheese, making sure to cover everything evenly. Give the dish a gentle shake to help the egg soak in. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and pop it in the fridge overnight. This step is crucial, as it lets the flavors meld beautifully and ensures a creamy texture!
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and take off the cover. Bake it for about 45-50 minutes, or until it’s set and golden on top. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are puffed, and you can poke it with a fork to check that the center isn’t jiggly. Your kitchen is going to smell heavenly!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Now, just a quick note about the nutritional information. Please remember that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, so they’re not set in stone. However, I’ve put together some typical nutritional values for a serving of this delicious Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole. Each slice generally contains about 250 calories, with 12 grams of fat, 15 grams of protein, and 20 grams of carbohydrates. It’s also got about 600 milligrams of sodium, so keep that in mind if you’re watching your salt intake. Enjoy this hearty breakfast knowing it’s filling and packed with goodness, but always feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Convenient: You can prep it the night before, making your morning stress-free.
- Hearty and Filling: With a great mix of protein and carbs, it keeps you satisfied all morning long!
- Flavorful: The combination of savory ham and gooey cheese creates a deliciously rich flavor that everyone loves.
- Versatile: Feel free to switch up the ingredients—different cheeses, veggies, or even sausage work wonderfully!
- Perfect for a Crowd: This casserole serves 8, making it ideal for family gatherings or brunch with friends.
- Easy Cleanup: One dish means less mess, so you can focus on enjoying your meal instead of doing dishes!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got a few handy tips! First off, using slightly stale bread is key—it helps absorb all that delicious egg mixture without getting too soggy. If you can, let your bread sit out overnight before you make the casserole; it really makes a difference!
Also, don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar is my go-to, but mixing in some mozzarella or pepper jack can add a fun twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Lastly, always let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely and makes it easier to cut into perfect squares. Trust me; following these tips will elevate your casserole game!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole, I love pairing it with a fresh fruit salad for a burst of color and sweetness. The juicy fruit complements the savory flavors of the casserole beautifully! A steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice also makes for a perfect breakfast spread. If you want to add a little extra flair, consider a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top right before serving. Enjoy your delicious breakfast feast!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers of your Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole can be stored easily! Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy those delicious flavors again without any hassle!
When it’s time to reheat, I recommend slicing the casserole into individual portions for easier serving. Pop a slice in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it’s heated through. If you prefer to use the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake the slices for about 10-15 minutes, until they’re warmed all the way through. This method helps maintain that lovely texture and flavor. Enjoy every bite all over again!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of meat? Absolutely! While ham is the star of this dish, you can easily swap it out for cooked bacon, sausage, or even turkey for a lighter option. Just make sure whatever you choose is cooked and diced.
How do I store leftovers? Simply cover the casserole tightly and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for quick breakfasts!
Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Sure! Just omit the ham and add in some sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly? Yes! You can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly and store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Can I add more cheese? Of course! Go wild with the cheese! Adding extra cheese will make it even creamier and more delicious. Just be mindful of the total moisture in the dish.
Print
Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole: 5-Star Comfort Food
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty overnight casserole perfect for breakfast.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Layer bread, ham, and cheese in a greased baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour egg mixture over the bread mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until set and golden.
Notes
- Let it cool before serving.
- Can be made with different cheeses.
- Use leftover ham for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole