Ham and Cheese Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Ham and Cheese Casserole: the ultimate comfort food that’s both incredibly easy to make and satisfyingly delicious! I don’t know about you, but the aroma of a bubbling, cheesy casserole wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me back to cozy family gatherings and potluck dinners. There’s something undeniably comforting about this classic dish, and I’m thrilled to share my version with you.

While the exact origins of the Ham and Cheese Casserole are a bit hazy, casseroles themselves have a long and rich history, evolving from humble peasant dishes to sophisticated culinary creations. They represent resourcefulness and practicality, a way to transform leftovers into something truly special. This particular combination of ham and cheese likely gained popularity in the mid-20th century, as processed meats and cheeses became more readily available, offering a convenient and affordable way to feed a crowd.

But beyond its historical roots, the real magic of this casserole lies in its simplicity and flavor. The salty, savory ham perfectly complements the creamy, melted cheese, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that’s hard to resist. It’s the kind of dish that everyone, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies, can agree on. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or even add a touch of spice to make it your own. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this Ham and Cheese Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cooked ham, diced
• 1 pound Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1 loaf (1 pound) day-old French bread, cubed
• 6 large eggs
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Preparing the Casserole:

1. First, let’s get our bread ready. I like to use day-old French bread because it soaks up the custard beautifully without becoming mushy. If your bread is fresh, you can lightly toast the cubes in a low oven (around 250°F) for about 15-20 minutes to dry them out a bit. This will help prevent a soggy casserole.
2. Now, grab a large bowl and combine the diced ham and shredded Swiss cheese. Make sure the ham is evenly diced so that each bite of the casserole has a good balance of flavors. I prefer Swiss cheese for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, which complements the ham perfectly, but you can substitute Gruyere or even cheddar if you prefer.
3. Add the cubed bread to the bowl with the ham and cheese. Gently toss everything together to distribute the ingredients evenly. You want the bread, ham, and cheese to be well mixed before we add the wet ingredients.
4. Next, in a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, chives, salt, and pepper. The Dijon mustard adds a nice tang that cuts through the richness of the cheese and cream. Don’t skip the chives; they add a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens up the whole dish. Make sure everything is well combined and there are no streaks of egg yolk.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ham, and cheese mixture in the bowl. Gently press down on the bread to ensure that it is fully submerged in the liquid. This is crucial for the bread to absorb the custard properly.
6. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a richer, more flavorful casserole. The longer it sits, the better it gets! I often prepare this the night before I plan to bake it.

Baking the Casserole:

1. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your oven is properly preheated for even baking.
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish and make it easier to serve.
3. Pour the refrigerated casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it bakes uniformly.
4. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the casserole. This will help the top brown nicely and add a touch of richness.
5. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and puffed up, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
6. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Serving Suggestions:

This Ham and Cheese Casserole is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even better:

• Serve with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or melon, for a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is another great accompaniment.
• For a heartier meal, serve with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses would work well in this casserole.
• Meat Variations: Instead of ham, you could use cooked sausage, bacon, or even leftover turkey or chicken.
• Vegetable Additions: Add some chopped vegetables, such as mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers, to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the casserole to soften them and bring out their flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a little bit of heat.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this casserole gluten-free.
• Individual Casseroles: For a fun twist, bake the casserole in individual ramekins instead of a large baking dish. This is great for portion control and makes for an elegant presentation. Reduce the baking time accordingly.
• Freezing Instructions: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time.

Troubleshooting:

• Casserole is too dry: If your casserole is too dry, try adding a little more milk or cream to the egg mixture. Also, make sure you are not overbaking it.
• Casserole is too soggy: If your casserole is too soggy, make sure you are using day-old bread or toasting the bread cubes before adding them to the casserole. Also, be sure to drain any excess liquid from the ham or cheese before adding them to the casserole.
• Casserole is not browning: If your casserole is not browning, try broiling it for the last few minutes of baking. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 200mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 25g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Why This Recipe Works:

This Ham and Cheese Casserole recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s incredibly easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of savory ham, nutty Swiss cheese, and creamy custard is simply irresistible. The day-old bread soaks up the custard beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ham and bread. The overnight refrigeration step is key to allowing the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a casserole that’s moist and flavorful throughout. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cheese and cream, while the chives provide a fresh, herbaceous note. This recipe is also highly adaptable, so you can easily customize it to your liking by adding different cheeses, meats, or vegetables. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual weeknight meal, this Ham and Cheese Casserole is sure to be a hit!

Enjoy!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This Ham and Cheese Casserole isn’t just another recipe; it’s a warm, comforting hug on a plate. I truly believe this is a must-try for anyone looking for a simple, satisfying meal that the whole family will devour. From the creamy, cheesy sauce to the savory ham and the perfectly baked bread, every element works together to create a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

What makes this casserole so special, in my opinion, is its versatility. It’s fantastic as is, but don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own! Feeling adventurous? Try adding some sautéed mushrooms and onions for an earthy depth. Or, if you’re a fan of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will kick things up a notch. For a vegetarian option, you could easily substitute the ham with roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers. The possibilities are truly endless!

Serving Suggestions: This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Alternatively, you could serve it with some steamed green beans or asparagus for a healthy and balanced meal. And for a truly decadent experience, try topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives.

Variations to Explore:

• Breakfast Casserole: Transform this into a breakfast masterpiece by adding scrambled eggs to the mixture before baking.
• Chicken Casserole: Substitute the ham with cooked chicken for a lighter, equally delicious version.
• Spicy Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
• Deluxe Casserole: Incorporate gourmet cheeses like Gruyere or Fontina for an extra layer of flavor.

I’ve made this Ham and Cheese Casserole countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even a special brunch. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ham from the holidays. The best part? It’s so easy to make that even a novice cook can whip it up in no time. I’m confident that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your own kitchen.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible casserole. I’m so excited for you to try it! And please, don’t be shy – I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your photos, your variations, and your thoughts in the comments below. Let me know what you think and how you made it your own. Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy every cheesy, ham-filled bite!

I truly believe that this Ham and Cheese Casserole is a recipe that deserves to be shared and enjoyed by everyone. It’s a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined with love and care, can create something truly extraordinary. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think. I can’t wait to hear from you!