Easter Breakfast Casserole: A Make-Ahead Crowd-Pleaser
A delightful Easter Breakfast Casserole with melty cheese, savory ham, and fluffy bread, perfect for gatherings and make-ahead preparation.
Equipment
- - Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- - Knife
Ingredients
For the Base
- 4 tablespoons Salted Butter Enhances richness and flavor; substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
- 12 ounces Baguette Provides the perfect structure; if unavailable, any crusty bread like ciabatta works wonderfully.
For the Filling
- 8 ounces Deli Ham Adds a savory protein punch; for a lighter option, try cooked turkey or veggie alternatives.
- 8 ounces Gruyère Cheese Contributes to creaminess and depth; Swiss cheese works as a great substitute.
For the Egg Mixture
- 6 large Large Eggs Essential for binding and texture; there are no substitutes for this key ingredient.
- 1 cup Whole Milk Offers moisture and richness; opt for low-fat milk if you want a lighter dish.
- 1/2 cup Half-and-Half Increases creaminess; use heavy cream for richness or milk for a lighter approach.
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Chives Adds flavor and vibrant color; feel free to substitute with green onions or omit entirely.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Imparts tanginess; yellow mustard can be used as an alternative.
- 1 teaspoon Chopped Fresh Thyme Infuses an aromatic flavor; dried thyme can be swapped (1 tsp).
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Elevates and enhances overall flavors; adjust per your taste preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Provides a subtle spice; freshly ground is best for maximum flavor.
For the Thickening
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Thickens the egg mixture; use gluten-free flour if needed.
- 1 pinch Pinch of Nutmeg Adds warmth and complexity; feel free to omit if you prefer.
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust on top—so don’t skip it!
- Grease a baking dish with salted butter to prevent sticking. Be generous; we want all the delicious layers to come out easily!
- Layer half of the baguette slices in the dish, creating a solid base.
- Distribute half of the ham and half of the gruyère cheese over the bread.
- Repeat with the remaining bread, ham, and cheese.
- Whisk the eggs, milk, half-and-half, chives, mustard, thyme, salt, pepper, flour, and nutmeg in a bowl until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes until the top is golden, and the center is set at 160°F.
Notes
Garnish with fresh herbs before serving for an extra touch of color and flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.