Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Christmas Morning Casserole

Christmas morning is a magical time, but the last thing you want is to be stuck in the kitchen for hours while everyone else opens presents. This Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Christmas Morning Casserole is the ultimate solution. It is a hearty, comforting, and colorful dish that brings everyone to the table with minimal effort.

This savory bake combines salty ham, tender broccoli, and plenty of melted cheese with a fluffy egg base. It is perfect for feeding a crowd and can even be prepped the night before. Whether you are using up leftover holiday ham or starting a new family tradition, this casserole is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 345 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 21g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 890mg

Why Make This Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Christmas Morning Casserole

This casserole is a winner because it balances nutrition and indulgence perfectly. The broccoli adds a fresh crunch and vibrant green color that looks beautiful on a holiday table. Meanwhile, the ham and cheese provide that classic savory flavor profile that everyone craves during a festive breakfast.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. It works just as well for a casual brunch as it does for a formal Christmas breakfast. It is a complete meal in one dish, meaning fewer pots and pans for you to wash. Plus, the smell of bubbling cheese and baked eggs wafting through the house is the best way to wake up on Christmas day.

How to Make Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Christmas Morning Casserole

Putting this dish together is incredibly simple and follows a basic layering technique that ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Follow these straightforward steps to create a breakfast masterpiece.

Ingredients

• 6 cups cubed crusty bread (such as French bread or sourdough)
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small and steamed slightly
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried mustard (optional for extra tang)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the eggs from sticking to the sides.

Step 2: Layer the Base Ingredients

Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Scatter the diced ham and the lightly steamed broccoli florets over the bread. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring it covers the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Whisk the Liquid Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 eggs and whisk them thoroughly. Add the milk, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried mustard. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the egg and milk mixture slowly over the layers in the baking dish. Use a spatula or a large spoon to gently press down on the bread cubes to make sure they are all submerged and soaking up the liquid.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the center rack of the oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the top browns too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the eggs to firm up slightly, making it much easier to serve clean squares.

How to Serve Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Christmas Morning Casserole

This casserole is a star on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette. For a full holiday spread, serve it alongside some crispy hash browns or toasted bagels. Don’t forget the hot coffee, tea, or a festive glass of orange juice or mimosas to complete the Christmas morning experience.

How to Store Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Christmas Morning Casserole

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze this casserole after baking. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil; they will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Christmas Morning Casserole

For the best texture, use bread that is a day or two old. Slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming mushy. If you are using fresh bread, you can lightly toast the cubes in the oven for 5 minutes before assembling. Also, make sure your broccoli is chopped into bite-sized pieces so that it cooks evenly and is easy to eat.

Delicious Variations

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your family’s tastes. Swap the cheddar cheese for Swiss or Gruyère for a more sophisticated flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this casserole the night before?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it starts cold.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw the frozen broccoli completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the casserole to avoid a soggy result.

Q: What is the best type of ham to use?

Any cooked ham works well. Leftover honey-baked ham adds a nice touch of sweetness, but standard deli ham or ham steaks also work perfectly fine.

Q: How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The casserole is done when the edges are golden brown and the center does not jiggle when you gently shake the pan. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the eggs are set.

Q: Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?

Yes, you can substitute some or all of the milk with heavy cream for an even richer, more custard-like consistency.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Christmas Morning Casserole is a stress-free way to serve a delicious and filling breakfast on a busy holiday. Its combination of classic flavors and ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for any brunch occasion. Give it a try this year and enjoy more time making memories with your loved ones!

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