Savory Ham & Cheddar Egg Bake
Start your day off right with this Savory Ham & Cheddar Egg Bake – a delightful breakfast or brunch dish that can be prepared the night before for your convenience. This hearty bake combines layers of toasted bread, savory diced ham, melty cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions, all soaked in a creamy egg and milk mixture. Whether you're gathering around the table with family on a holiday morning, hosting friends for brunch, or bringing a dish to a potluck at work, this egg bake is sure to impress. The best part? It can be made in advance or whipped up quickly on the spot, making it a versatile choice that fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bread slices
12 (Trimmed)
Cooking spray
as needed
Diced ham
2 cups (Fully cooked)
Shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups
Green onions
1 bunch (Diced (with tops))
Milk
2 cups
Dry mustard
1 teaspoon
Eggs
6 (Beaten)
Red pepper sauce
1/2 teaspoon (Optional)
Paprika
to taste (Optional)
Instructions
1
Begin by trimming the crusts from the bread slices.
2
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and spray a 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
3
Arrange 6 whole slices of bread in the base of the dish evenly.
4
In a separate bowl, layer the diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced green onions over the bread.
5
Cut the remaining 6 slices of bread diagonally in half and place them along the outer rim of the dish with the points facing inward.
6
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, dry mustard, red pepper sauce (if using), and eggs until smooth.
7
Evenly pour the egg mixture over the bread layer in the baking dish; ensure all bread is well-soaked.
8
Lightly sprinkle paprika over the top for added flavor and color.
9
You can either bake it immediately or cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours for a make-ahead option.
10
When ready to bake, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 60 to 70 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
11
Allow the dish to stand for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles and serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Ham & Cheddar Egg Bake?
It is a hearty breakfast or brunch dish featuring layers of toasted bread, savory diced ham, cheddar cheese, and green onions soaked in a creamy egg and milk mixture.
Can I make this egg bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
How long can I refrigerate the egg bake before cooking?
The prepared dish can be covered and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
What size baking dish is required?
You will need a 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking dish.
Do I need to trim the crusts off the bread?
Yes, the instructions recommend trimming the crusts from the bread slices before assembly.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius).
How long does the egg bake take to cook?
It should be baked uncovered for 60 to 70 minutes.
How many eggs are used in this recipe?
This recipe requires 6 beaten eggs.
What type of cheese is used in this bake?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Is the ham used in the recipe pre-cooked?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 2 cups of fully cooked diced ham.
Can I substitute the ham?
While the recipe calls for ham, you could substitute it with cooked sausage or bacon if preferred.
How do I know when the egg bake is finished cooking?
The bake is done when the center is set and the top has turned golden brown.
What kind of bread is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 12 slices of bread; standard white or brioche work well for soaking up the egg mixture.
Why should the dish stand for 10 minutes after baking?
Allowing it to stand helps the structure set, making it easier to slice into clean squares or rectangles.
What is the purpose of the paprika in this recipe?
Paprika is sprinkled on top to add a bit of color and extra flavor.
Is the red pepper sauce necessary?
No, the red pepper sauce is optional and can be used to add a bit of heat to the dish.
How much milk is needed for the egg mixture?
The recipe requires 2 cups of milk.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while cheddar is recommended, you can use other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Swiss.
How should I arrange the bread slices?
Place 6 whole slices in the base and then arrange 6 diagonally cut halves along the outer rim with points facing inward.
Is this recipe suitable for a potluck?
Yes, it is a versatile choice that fits perfectly for potlucks, holiday mornings, or brunch with friends.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, you should spray the baking dish with cooking spray before adding the ingredients.
What spices are used in the egg mixture?
The egg mixture is seasoned with one teaspoon of dry mustard and optional red pepper sauce.
Can I add more vegetables?
The recipe includes green onions, but you could easily add diced bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms.
Can I use whole wheat bread?
Yes, whole wheat bread can be used as a healthier alternative to white bread.
How do I serve the egg bake?
Slice the bake into squares or rectangles and serve warm.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, cooked egg bake can be frozen, though the texture of the bread may soften slightly upon reheating.
What should the consistency of the egg mixture be before pouring?
Whisk the milk, mustard, sauce, and eggs together until the mixture is completely smooth.
Is this a good recipe for large groups?
Yes, a 13x9 dish typically yields enough portions for a standard family breakfast or brunch gathering.
Can I use regular mustard instead of dry mustard?
Yes, you can substitute a teaspoon of prepared mustard if you do not have dry mustard.
Is the green onion used entirely?
The recipe suggests using one bunch of diced green onions, including the tops.