Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake is a savory, comforting dish with layers of ham, melted cheese, and a golden, crunchy topping. It’s great for breakfast, brunch, or even a hearty dinner. Here’s a simple recipe to make this mouthwatering bake!
Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake
Ingredients:
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6-8 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or a crusty bread like French or sourdough)
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2 cups cooked ham (diced or thinly sliced)
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2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a blend of both)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
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4 large eggs
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1 1/2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for a richer texture)
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for added flavor)
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon onion powder
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
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Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Prepare the bread:
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Cut the bread into cubes or tear it into bite-sized pieces. Arrange half of the bread cubes in a single layer in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
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Layer with ham and cheese:
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Spread the diced ham evenly over the bread cubes, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
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Make the egg mixture:
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In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese layers in the baking dish. Press down gently on the bread to ensure it’s soaked through with the egg mixture.
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Top with cheese and butter:
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Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese and the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Drizzle with the melted butter for that golden, crispy crust.
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Bake:
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Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and golden brown on top. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean, and the cheese should be bubbly and golden.
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Cool and serve:
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Let the bake cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a burst of color.
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Tips:
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Add-ins: Feel free to add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
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Make ahead: You can prepare this the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just bake it according to the recipe.
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Cheese options: If you prefer a different cheese, try using Gruyère, provolone, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
This Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake is cheesy, savory, and has the perfect golden crunch on top. It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!