Ham and Egg Breakfast Bake Recipe

Eggs: The base of the dish, providing protein and a rich, creamy texture when baked.

Diced ham: Adds a savory, meaty flavor to the bake, complementing the eggs and cheese.

Shredded cheese: Melts into the bake, adding creaminess and a hint of sharpness.

Milk: Helps to create a smooth, custard-like consistency in the egg mixture.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, ensuring the dish is well-seasoned.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the overall flavor profile.

For a fluffier texture in your egg bake, consider separating the egg whites from the yolks before whisking. Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold them into the egg yolk mixture with the milk, ham, and cheese. This technique incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter and more airy breakfast bake.

• eggs - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be crumbled and seasoned to mimic the texture and flavor of scrambled eggs, making it a great plant-based alternative.

• eggs - Substitute with chia seeds: Mixing chia seeds with water creates a gel-like consistency that can act as a binding agent similar to eggs.

• diced ham - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon provides a similar smoky flavor with less fat and calories compared to ham.

• diced ham - Substitute with mushrooms: For a vegetarian option, mushrooms offer a savory umami flavor that can replace the meatiness of ham.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy, suitable for vegan diets.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Vegan cheese can mimic the texture and taste of regular cheese, making it a good dairy-free alternative.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a lactose-free alternative that can be used in the same quantity as regular milk.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk has a creamy texture similar to cow's milk, making it a suitable substitute in baking.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral flavor profile.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat and flavor but with a slightly different aroma, perfect for those who prefer a milder taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick, ideal for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.

• Allow the ham and egg breakfast bake to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the dish soggy.

• Once cooled, slice the breakfast bake into individual portions. This makes it easier to grab a quick breakfast on busy mornings.

• For short-term storage, place the portions in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• To freeze, wrap each portion individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. This double layer of protection helps prevent freezer burn.

• Label the freezer-safe bag with the date and contents. This ensures you know what you’re grabbing and how long it’s been stored.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor of the breakfast bake.

• For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°f (175°c). Place the thawed portion on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave. Place the portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Enjoy your reheated ham and egg breakfast bake with a side of fresh fruit or a slice of toast for a complete breakfast experience.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover ham and egg breakfast bake in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the original texture and flavor.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a portion of the breakfast bake on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. Be cautious not to overcook, as the eggs can become rubbery.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Cut the breakfast bake into smaller pieces and place them in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method can give a slightly crispy edge to the cheese topping.

• On the stovetop, use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the breakfast bake slices in the skillet, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method is great for achieving a slightly crispy bottom.

• Oven: Used to bake the breakfast dish at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Mixing bowl: A bowl where you whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, and then mix in the ham and cheese.

• Whisk: A tool used to blend the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper smoothly.

• Baking dish: The dish where you pour the egg mixture to bake it in the oven.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and pepper precisely.

• Knife: Used to dice the ham into small pieces.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely dice the ham.

• Oven mitts: Used to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Prep ingredients ahead: Dice the ham and shred the cheese the night before to save time in the morning.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to skip the grating step and speed up the process.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Mix in a blender: Combine eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a blender for a faster, smoother mix.

Line the baking dish: Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy cleanup.