This article contains:
- Your Shopping List for the Bake
- How to Make the Best Ham and Cheese Brunch Bake
- Pro Tips for the Perfect Bake Every Time
- Frequently Asked Questions
There’s something special about a warm, savory breakfast casserole that brings everyone to the table. This smoked ham breakfast bake combines thick-cut ham, creamy eggs and melted cheese into a comforting dish that’s perfect for weekend brunch, holiday gatherings or any morning when you want something truly satisfying.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can prepare most of it ahead of time, customize it with your favorite add-ins and serve a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Everyone gets a hot meal at the same time, which makes hosting so much easier.
Your Shopping List for the Bake
Before you start, gather your ingredients a day or two ahead so everything is fresh and ready. This also helps you avoid last-minute grocery runs.
Of course, quality ingredients make all the difference in the final result. Here’s what you might consider buying:
- Thick-cut smoked ham steak, diced into bite-sized pieces
- Carton of eggs, preferably pasture-raised for superior flavor and nutrition
- Whole milk
- Sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- Day-old French bread, baguette or sourdough bread, cut into cubes
- Butter
- Dijon mustard
- Fresh herbs, such as thyme
- Garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper
You have plenty of options for cheese and herbs, so feel free to swap based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. The day-old bread is important, though, as it absorbs the egg mixture best without getting soggy.
A Quick Note on Choosing Your Eggs
The quality of your eggs affects the flavor, texture and color of this bake. Pasture-raised eggs, in particular, come from hens that forage on diverse grasslands, giving them access to more nutrients than hens in other housing systems. This varied diet of grasses, seeds and insects translates directly into better-tasting eggs. Companies like Sauder’s Eggs focus on responsible sourcing and excellent hen husbandry.
Its organic pasture-raised egg products carry the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) seal, ensuring quality eggs from hens that receive proper care. Research shows pasture-raised eggs can contain double the amount of carotenoids and three times as much omega-3 fatty acid content compared to cage-free eggs. These eggs also have a five to 10 times lower omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio, which contributes to a better nutritional balance.
Sauder’s Eggs genuinely cares about the well-being of its chickens, ensuring they stay happy and entertained to produce top-notch eggs
When you crack open a pasture-raised egg, you’ll likely notice the deeper golden-orange yolk. That’s because their eggs’ yolks rise higher and have a creamier texture than those of standard eggs. That vibrant color carries through into the rich appearance of your finished breakfast bake.
How to Make the Best Ham and Cheese Brunch Bake
There’s a reason why many people love a ham and cheese brunch bake. It’s an easy recipe for a big crowd that gets even better as the flavors meld. Start by preheating your oven to 350° Fahrenheit with a rack in the center position.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, mustard, thyme and garlic powder until smooth. Season with salt and a few grinds of pepper.
Grease a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with butter. Spread the bread cubes in the bottom of the dish, then top with the ham and cheddar. Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything.
Bake uncovered until the eggs cook through and the ham turns golden, for about 40 to 45 minutes. Top with more fresh thyme before serving. If you want to prepare this casserole ahead, cover the assembled baking dish with foil and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight, then bake as directed.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Bake Every Time
Adding fresh herbs transforms the flavor. Fresh thyme, rosemary or sage complement the smoky ham beautifully, while chives and parsley add a bright finish. If you’re using dried herbs instead of fresh, cut the amount in half since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor. Stir about 1 tablespoon of the herbs you select into the egg mixture and sprinkle a bit more on top before the final bake.
Sauder’s Eggs recommends adding some veggies to your breakfast bakes
You can further customize this bake to suit your taste with sautéed mushrooms and diced fresh spinach or bell peppers, which add more color to the dish. Just make sure to cook any vegetables first to remove excess moisture that could make your bake soggy.
If you’re lucky, there’ll be enough left for you to eat the following morning, too. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat without drying it out, cover individual portions with a damp paper towel and microwave for 60 to 90 seconds. For larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a 300° Fahrenheit oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the bake heats through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you making this breakfast bake for the first time? Here are answers to the most common questions that come up in the kitchen.
Can you prepare this bake ahead of time?
That’s actually one of the best features of this recipe. Assemble the entire dish the night before, cover it tightly and refrigerate it. Just remember to let it sit out for 20 minutes before baking, so it cooks evenly.
What should you serve with this dish?
This breakfast bake pairs well with fresh berries, a quick arugula salad or roasted cherry tomatoes. For beverages, consider freshly squeezed orange juice, coffee or mimosas if you’re hosting a special brunch.
How can you tell if the bake is fully cooked?
When you gently shake the pan, the center is set firmly and doesn’t jiggle. You can also insert a knife into the center, and it should come out clean. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 160° Fahrenheit by using a food thermometer. You should always cook eggs thoroughly because undercooked ones can carry Salmonella, which causes foodborne illness.
Make This Your Go-To Brunch Recipe
This smoked ham breakfast casserole brings together simple prep, make-ahead convenience and crowd-pleasing flavor. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or a casual weekend gathering, you’ll appreciate how little time you spend in the kitchen while everyone enjoys a hot, satisfying meal.