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Close-up of a hearty slice of Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole showing layers of bread, ham, and melted cheese topping.

Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole (Holiday Brunch)

This make-ahead breakfast casserole is perfect for holiday gatherings, combining savory ham and cheese with enriched bread for a comforting dish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 4 cups day-old challah or other egg-enriched bread 3/4-inch cubes, loosely packed
  • 8 ounces thickly sliced ham diced
  • 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese about 4 ounces
For the Custard
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For Sautéing
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon granulated sugar

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large bowl
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and diced ham.
  2. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon salt and the sugar. Cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and add the sautéed onions to the bread and ham mixture.
  3. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, dry mustard, nutmeg, thyme leaves, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper.
  4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ham, and onion mixture. Gently toss to coat evenly. Let stand for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
  5. Stir in the grated Gruyère cheese.
  6. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight.
  7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
  8. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be assembled the day before and refrigerated. For a richer flavor, you can use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Swiss. If you don't have day-old bread, you can lightly toast fresh bread cubes before using them.

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