Cheddar Ham Breakfast Bake
Start your day with a hearty and satisfying breakfast that's both delicious and easy to make. This Cheddar Ham Breakfast Bake combines savory ham, rich cheddar cheese, and a creamy egg mixture, all baked to perfection. It's the ultimate morning treat that's perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping in advance for busy mornings.
Total Time: 50 Mins
Active Time: 10 Mins
Yields: 4-6 Servings
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 cup ham, diced
1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
8 eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
2/3 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon chives, minced
1 1/2 cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
Method:
Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9-inch pie plate (glass or ceramic works best).
Cook the Ham and Onions: In a large nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and ham to the pan and cook until the onions are golden and softened, about 8-10 minutes.
Make the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and chives until well combined.
Assemble the Bake: Evenly sprinkle the cooked ham and onions in the bottom of the prepared pie plate. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese, then pour the egg mixture over the top, making sure everything is evenly distributed.
Bake: Bake for about 40 minutes or until the bake is just set in the center (a knife inserted should come out clean). Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Tips & Notes:
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Make-Ahead: This bake can be made the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat before serving.
Customization: Feel free to swap the ham for cooked bacon or sausage if you prefer. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Swiss or Gruyère for a unique twist.
Crust Option: If you prefer a crust, simply blind-bake a pre-made pie crust for 10-15 minutes before filling it with the egg mixture.
Pairing Suggestions:
Salads: Serve with a light arugula salad or a fresh avocado bacon salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the quiche.
Bread: A slice of crusty bread or cheesy garlic bread would be perfect to accompany this quiche for a complete meal.
Drinks: Pair with a refreshing iced tea, sparkling water, or a glass of chilled white wine for a brunch-ready combination.
The Art of Gifting:
Gift: A Cheddar Ham Breakfast Bake makes a thoughtful and delicious gift for a friend or family member. You can prepare it in advance and package it nicely with a handwritten recipe card. It’s a wonderful gift for housewarmings, new parents, or anyone who appreciates a comforting, homemade meal. To make it even more special, pair it with a basket of fresh fruit or some artisanal bread.
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