Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to for busy mornings: the Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole! Seriously, this dish is like a warm hug on a plate. I love that I can whip it up the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning while I sip my coffee and ease into the day. It’s perfect for family brunches when everyone’s gathered around the table, or when you just want to treat yourself to something hearty without a ton of fuss. Plus, it’s incredibly forgiving. Got leftover ham? Perfect! Some cheese hanging out in the fridge? Toss it in! This casserole is all about comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients List
Getting your ingredients right is key to making this Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 slices of bread, cubed: Use your favorite bread—white, whole grain, or even sourdough work great! Just cut them into bite-sized cubes for even distribution.
- 2 cups diced ham: Any leftover ham will do! Just chop it into small pieces so it mixes well with the other ingredients.
- 2 cups shredded cheese: I love a good mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that melty goodness, but feel free to use whatever cheese you prefer.
- 6 eggs: Large eggs are ideal for creating a fluffy texture. They will bind everything together beautifully.
- 2 cups milk: Whole milk gives a rich flavor, but you can also use 2% or even a non-dairy alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option.
- 1 teaspoon mustard: This adds a nice depth of flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip it or use Dijon for a bit of zing!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all those delicious flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a little kick; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference!
Having everything measured and prepped ahead of time makes the assembly a breeze. You’ll be so glad you took this step!
How to Prepare Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this comforting casserole. It’s as easy as 1-2-3, and I promise you’ll find joy in every step! Just remember, the key is to take your time and enjoy the process.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly throughout. It’s like giving your dish a warm welcome before it goes in!
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Grab a greased baking dish (I usually use a 9×13 inch one), and start layering! Begin with the cubed bread at the bottom—this creates a nice base. Then, sprinkle the diced ham evenly over the bread, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheese. Make sure every piece is well-distributed; you want some cheesy goodness in every bite!
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, mustard, salt, and pepper. You’re aiming for a smooth consistency here—no lumps! This mixture is what binds everything together and gives the casserole its creamy texture. I can’t help but get excited when I see that beautiful yellow color!
Step 4: Combine and Refrigerate
Now, it’s time to pour that egg mixture evenly over your layered ingredients. Make sure every piece of bread gets a nice soak! Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and pop it in the fridge overnight. This is where the magic happens as the flavors meld together!
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
The next morning, take the casserole out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes while you preheat your oven again (if you didn’t already!). Then, bake it for 45-50 minutes until it’s set and golden on top. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delicious Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole. Remember, these values are estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re getting in each hearty slice. With this dish, you’re looking at approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 15g
This casserole packs a punch with its comforting flavors while still being a relatively balanced breakfast option. Perfect for fueling your day without weighing you down!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set with the recipe, let me share some of my best tips to ensure your Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole turns out absolutely fabulous!
- Use day-old bread: If you have some stale bread lying around, it’s perfect for this casserole! Day-old bread absorbs the egg mixture better, giving you that deliciously custardy texture.
- Try different cheeses: While I love a classic cheddar and mozzarella blend, don’t be afraid to experiment! Gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack can add unique flavors. Get creative and find your perfect cheesy combination!
- Mix in veggies: Want to sneak in some greens? Spinach, bell peppers, or even broccoli work wonders in this dish. Just sauté them a bit before adding to the layers for the best texture and taste.
- Don’t skip the mustard: It might seem like a small addition, but trust me, that teaspoon of mustard really enhances the flavors! If you’re not a fan, try a little hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a different twist.
- Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes! If the top is getting too brown but the center isn’t set, you can cover it loosely with foil to prevent over-browning while it finishes baking.
- Let it rest before serving: It’s tempting to dive right in, but letting the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to cut into perfect squares.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to creating a breakfast masterpiece that will impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
Variations on Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole
One of the best things about this Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole is how adaptable it is! You can customize it to suit your tastes or to use up whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:
- Different Meats: While ham is a classic choice, feel free to swap it out for cooked bacon, sausage, or even diced chicken! Each meat brings its own unique flavor, so experiment and see what you love best.
- Veggie Power: Sneak in some nutrition by adding veggies! Chopped spinach, bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can add color and flavor. Just sauté them first to soften and enhance their taste before layering them in.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the egg mixture. Alternatively, a dash of hot sauce can add just the right kick!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate your casserole to the next level. Try adding some chopped chives, parsley, or even a sprinkle of thyme for an aromatic touch that brightens up every bite.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Don’t limit yourself to just one type of cheese! Mix and match with gouda, feta, or even a sharp blue cheese for a bold flavor. Just remember to keep the total amount around 2 cups for best results.
- Breakfast Fiesta: Turn it into a Tex-Mex delight by adding black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Top with some avocado or salsa just before serving for a fresh finish.
With these variations, you can make this casserole your own and have a delicious, unique breakfast every time. I love how it can feel new and exciting with just a few tweaks! Happy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to store your leftovers because you’ll definitely want to savor every last bite of this delicious Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole!
First off, if you have any leftovers (which I hope you do because they’re just as good the next day!), let the casserole cool completely. Once it’s cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to label it if you’re storing it in a container—trust me, you’ll want to remember what’s hiding in there!
When it’s time to reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You can slice out individual portions or reheat the whole casserole. If you’re going for the whole dish, cover it loosely with foil to help retain moisture and prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s heated through. If you’re just warming up a slice, pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it’s heated evenly. A little sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating makes for a melty treat!
And there you have it—easy storage and reheating instructions to keep your casserole tasting delicious, even days after you’ve made it. Enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh, where do I even start with why this Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a total winner? First off, it’s just so incredibly quick and easy to make! I love that I can assemble it the night before, pop it in the fridge, and then let it work its magic while I sip my morning coffee. Seriously, there’s nothing better than waking up to the smell of a warm, cheesy casserole wafting through the house.
It’s also super flavorful! The combination of savory ham, gooey cheese, and the creamy egg mixture creates a breakfast that feels like a treat, yet it’s so simple to whip up. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want to have delicious leftovers for the week, this casserole has you covered. It’s hearty enough to keep you satisfied all morning long, and the best part? You can customize it however you like! Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your breakfast rotation.
FAQ Section
Can I make this casserole without ham?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of ham or want a meatless option, feel free to skip it altogether or substitute it with cooked bacon, sausage, or even sautéed veggies. It’ll still be delicious!
How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If it jiggles too much, give it a little more time in the oven!
Can I use different types of bread?
Definitely! While I love a classic white or whole grain bread, you can use sourdough, brioche, or even croissants for a richer flavor. Just make sure it’s cubed and ready to soak up that egg mixture!
Is it necessary to refrigerate overnight?
Yes! Refrigerating it overnight allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully, resulting in a creamier texture. If you’re in a rush, let it sit in the fridge for at least a couple of hours, but overnight is best!
Can I freeze leftovers?
You can! Just make sure to cool it completely, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out this collection of breakfast recipes!
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Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole: 5 Comforting Steps
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A savory and hearty breakfast casserole made with ham and cheese, perfect for a quick morning meal.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread, cubed
- 2 cups diced ham
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased baking dish, layer the bread cubes, ham, and cheese.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread layers.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until set and golden.
Notes
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
- This dish can be customized with different meats or vegetables.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Overnight Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole, breakfast casserole, ham and cheese casserole