If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful breakfast or brunch that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Cheesy Egg Bake with Ham, Vegetables, and Cheddar Recipe. Packed with layers of savory ham, fresh vegetables, and gooey melted cheddar cheese, it’s the perfect dish to make ahead for busy mornings or to share with family and friends. This bake transforms simple ingredients into something truly comforting and impressive, all while being surprisingly easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in crafting the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the creamy eggs to the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the vibrant veggies, these essentials come together effortlessly to create a memorable dish.
- 8 large eggs: The rich and fluffy base that holds everything together.
- 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess and ensures a tender, custardy texture.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Provides irresistible melty cheesiness with a bit of sharpness.
- 1 cup diced ham or cooked bacon: Adds smoky, savory depth and meaty goodness.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and a subtle bite when sautéed.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Offers a fresh, crisp contrast and lovely color.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Earthy flavor and a tender bite that balances the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle, savory aroma without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps in perfectly sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 tablespoon butter: For greasing the baking dish to achieve a golden crust.
How to Make Cheesy Egg Bake with Ham, Vegetables, and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a steady, even heat that’s ideal for baking the egg mixture to a perfectly set and golden top without drying it out.
Step 2: Prep the Baking Dish
Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a generous coating of butter or use a non-stick spray. This simple step prevents sticking and adds a little extra flavor to the crust edges, which are often the best bites!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then toss in the chopped onions, green bell peppers, and mushrooms. Cook until they’re tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step unlocks their natural sweetness and softens their texture, making every bite delicious.
Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until everything is perfectly combined. This mixture is the custardy foundation for your egg bake, so whisking thoroughly helps keep it smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
Fold the sautéed vegetables, diced ham or bacon, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Mixing these ingredients evenly ensures that every square of your baked dish bursts with flavor and gooey cheese.
Step 6: Pour and Spread
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, then spread it evenly so it bakes uniformly. This even layer promises a consistent texture and flavor from edge to edge.
Step 7: Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This final cheesy layer will melt and brown beautifully, creating the signature golden, bubbly crust that makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place your dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when the center no longer jiggles and the cheese on top is bubbling lightly.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Once out of the oven, let the bake rest for a few minutes. This cooling time helps everything firm up, making it easier to cut into neat squares for serving.
Step 10: Enjoy!
Serve your warm, cheesy squares immediately for the best experience. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of flavors, from creamy eggs to savory ham and fresh vegetables.
How to Serve Cheesy Egg Bake with Ham, Vegetables, and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh note that brightens the rich flavors. For a touch of indulgence, a dollop of sour cream or a side of hot sauce pairs beautifully as well.
Side Dishes
This egg bake stands well on its own, but pairing it with crispy breakfast potatoes, a fresh green salad, or even some toasted crusty bread gives your meal wonderful variety and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in individual ramekins for a charming presentation at brunch or wrap slices in warmed tortillas for delicious breakfast burritos. You could also add sliced avocado or roasted tomatoes on the side for a colorful, inviting spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover portions in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for 3 to 4 days, perfect for quick re-heats.
Freezing
You can freeze this Cheesy Egg Bake with Ham, Vegetables, and Cheddar Recipe! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in freezer-safe containers. They will keep well for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave or warm them in an oven preheated to 325°F until heated through. Avoid high heat to keep the texture soft and prevent the eggs from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives a classic sharp flavor, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Mixing cheeses can add exciting layers of taste and texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the ham or bacon and add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for a hearty vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
Can I prepare this recipe the night before?
Definitely. Mix all ingredients and keep the baking dish covered in the fridge overnight. When ready, bake it fresh in the morning for a quick, convenient breakfast.
What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch dish?
You can use a slightly smaller or larger baking dish, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller dishes may require less time, while larger ones might need a bit more baking.
How do I know when the egg bake is done?
It’s done when the center is set and no longer jiggles, and the top is nicely golden and bubbly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely comforting and satisfying about this Cheesy Egg Bake with Ham, Vegetables, and Cheddar Recipe that keeps me coming back to it time and again. It’s easy enough for weeknight meals yet special enough for weekend gatherings. I truly hope you give it a try and make it your new go-to for a delicious, hearty breakfast or brunch that everyone will love!
Print
Cheesy Egg Bake with Ham, Vegetables, and Cheddar Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 35m
- Total Time: 0h 50m
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Egg Bake is a delicious, hearty breakfast casserole perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Packed with sautéed vegetables, savory ham or bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures baked to perfection. Easy to prepare and bake, it’s an ideal make-ahead breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Vegetables and Meat
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup diced ham or cooked bacon
Cheese and Fats
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing and sautéing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is fully heated by the time you’re ready to bake.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, green bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté until the vegetables become tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Mix Egg Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the sautéed vegetables, diced ham or bacon, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Fill Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the egg mixture to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes to firm up, making it easier to slice.
- Serve: Cut the egg bake into squares and serve warm. Enjoy this comforting and satisfying breakfast casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute ham or bacon with cooked sausage or keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, tomatoes, or zucchini according to your preference.
- For a richer flavor, use half-and-half or cream instead of milk.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure all seasonings and the processed meats are gluten-free.
