Breakfast

Easy Ham and Egg Casserole Recipe

Craving a hearty breakfast that’s both easy and satisfying? My Easy Ham and Egg Casserole is exactly what you need. With fluffy eggs, savory ham, melted cheddar cheese, and a hint of sweet onion, this casserole comes together in no time and makes a perfect breakfast or brunch dish for family and friends. Whether you’re prepping for a busy weekday morning or a leisurely weekend, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent without being complicated.

What I love most about this casserole is how flexible it is. You can use leftover ham, swap in your favorite cheese, or even sneak in some veggies for an extra nutrient boost. Plus, it’s baked to golden perfection, making it just the right balance of fluffy, cheesy, and savory.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything I use for my Easy Ham and Egg Casserole:

  • 8 large eggs (or 4 whole eggs + 6 egg whites)

  • 1 cup whole or 2% milk

  • ½ teaspoon seasoned salt (I like Lawry’s for a hint of extra flavor)

  • 8 ounces diced cooked ham

  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

  • 3 tablespoons very finely diced sweet onion

Optional garnish: chopped fresh chives or parsley

Required Kitchen Tools

Having the right tools makes cooking this casserole so much easier. Here’s what I always use:

  1. 9x13 Baking Dish – Perfect for even baking and serving a crowd.

  2. Mixing Bowl – For whisking eggs, milk, and seasonings together smoothly.

  3. Whisk or Fork – To combine eggs and milk thoroughly.

  4. Cutting Board & Knife – For dicing ham and onion finely.

  5. Oven Mitts – Essential for safely handling the hot casserole dish.

With these tools ready, you’ll have everything you need to make this casserole a success from start to finish.

Preparing the Casserole

Making this ham and egg casserole is straightforward, and I love how quick it comes together. The key is mixing the eggs and milk just right and layering the ingredients evenly for that perfect flavor in every bite.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First, I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, I lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray—this keeps the casserole from sticking and gives the edges a slight crisp.

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, I crack in all 8 eggs (or 4 whole eggs + 6 egg whites) and pour in the milk. I sprinkle the ½ teaspoon of seasoned salt over the mixture, then whisk everything together until it’s smooth and slightly frothy. This step ensures a fluffy, tender casserole once it’s baked.

Step 3: Add the Ham, Cheese, and Onion

Next, I fold in the diced ham, grated cheddar cheese, and finely diced sweet onion. I like to mix gently so the ingredients are evenly distributed without overworking the eggs. This gives every serving a balanced taste of ham, cheese, and a subtle onion sweetness.

Step 4: Pour and Spread

Once everything is combined, I pour the mixture into my prepared baking dish. I make sure it’s spread evenly so the casserole cooks uniformly. This also helps the top brown nicely while keeping the center soft and creamy.

Baking the Casserole

Baking this casserole is the easiest part, and it’s where all the flavors come together beautifully.

Step 1: Bake to Perfection

I place the casserole in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a light golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. For extra assurance, I sometimes check around the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking—no one wants dry eggs!

Step 2: Rest Before Serving

After baking, I let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes. This little pause allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing and serving much easier. During this time, the cheese settles slightly, and the casserole becomes perfectly sliceable.

Serving and Garnishing

I love adding a fresh touch with chopped chives or parsley sprinkled over the top right before serving. It adds color, a subtle fresh flavor, and makes the dish look extra inviting.

This casserole is perfect on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with:

  • Toast or crusty bread

  • Fresh fruit or a light salad

  • A side of roasted potatoes for a heartier meal

I usually serve it straight from the baking dish so everyone can grab a generous portion of fluffy eggs, savory ham, and melty cheese.

Storage Instructions

One of the best things about this casserole is that it keeps really well, making it perfect for meal prep.

How to Store

After serving, allow any leftovers to cool completely. I store mine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or until warmed through.

Freezing for Later

If I want to make it ahead of time, this casserole freezes beautifully. I cut it into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It keeps for up to 2 months. To reheat, I let it thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or until hot.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

Here are a few tricks I’ve learned to make this casserole extra delicious every time:

  1. Use good-quality ham: The flavor of the ham really shines through, so I recommend fully cooked, flavorful ham.

  2. Grate cheese fresh if possible: Pre-shredded cheese works fine, but freshly grated cheddar melts better and tastes richer.

  3. Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on it—overbaked eggs can become rubbery. The casserole should be set but still moist.

  4. Add veggies for variety: Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can easily be mixed in for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

This Easy Ham and Egg Casserole has become one of my go-to recipes for busy mornings and weekend brunches. It’s simple, versatile, and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. From fluffy eggs to savory ham, melty cheddar, and a hint of sweet onion, every bite is comforting and satisfying.

Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or prepping ahead for a quick breakfast, this casserole is a reliable, delicious option. It’s the perfect combination of convenience and taste—proof that simple ingredients can make an extraordinary meal.