This Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is the perfect way to start the day. Slow-roasted ham and sharp cheddar are layered between slices of soft, buttery brioche, baked until golden and served with warm syrup and fresh berries for a delightful balance of sweet and savory.
This casserole brings together classic breakfast flavors—brioche, eggs, ham, and cheddar—into one satisfying dish. It’s hearty enough for brunch guests and simple enough for a cozy family morning.
What is brioche bread?
Brioche is a rich French bread made with a high proportion of eggs and butter, which gives it a tender crumb and a slightly yellow hue. Its subtle sweetness and soft texture make it an ideal base for this ham and cheese bake. If you can’t find brioche, challah or another egg-enriched bread works well as a substitute; the result will be slightly different but still delicious.
Why you’ll love this breakfast casserole
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble most of the casserole the night before to save time in the morning; finish with the egg wash and bake when ready.
- Sweet and savory: Brioche adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory ham and melted cheese.
- Comforting and unique: It’s essentially a layered ham-and-cheese sandwich baked into a casserole—familiar flavors with an enhanced presentation.
Ingredients for this ham and cheese breakfast
- Brioche loaf – Use brioche or another egg-enriched bread for the best flavor and texture.
- Slow-roasted ham – Sliced ham, store-bought or homemade.
- Cheddar cheese – Sharp or mild cheddar works; swap with another melting cheese if preferred.
- Eggs – For the egg wash that soaks into the bread.
- Milk – Any milk or a non-dairy alternative will do.
- Dried mustard – A small amount enhances overall flavor.
- Salt – A pinch to season.
How to make this ham and cheese breakfast casserole
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 9 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: Beat the eggs with the milk, dried mustard, and a pinch of salt until combined.
Step 3: Brush the egg mixture on both sides of each brioche slice. Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheddar between two brioche slices to form sandwiches.
Step 4: Arrange the sandwiches upright in the prepared baking dish, side by side, in as many rows as will fit.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 23–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly crisp. Serve warm with syrup and fresh berries.
FAQs
You can prepare it the night before or assemble it the same morning. If using brioche, wait to brush with the egg mixture until just before baking to avoid soggy bread.
A strata specifically uses bread that soaks up an egg custard, while a breakfast casserole may include eggs but doesn’t always incorporate bread.
Tips and variations
- Slice brioche carefully: Avoid cutting the bread too thin so it holds together during assembly and baking.
- Substitute dried mustard: If you prefer not to use dried mustard, omit it or replace with a small pinch of another spice; dried mustard provides a subtle savory lift that pairs nicely with ham and cheese.
- Adjust for your dish: If slices are too wide for your pan, trim the edges slightly so they fit upright in the baking dish.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free loaf that holds up well to the egg wash.
- Leftovers: Reheat slices for an easy ham and cheese sandwich or a quick lunch.
Make ahead and storage
Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole a few days in advance and refrigerate. If using brioche, do not brush with the egg wash until just before baking to prevent sogginess. Alternatively, choose a sturdier bread like ciabatta if you want to apply the egg wash the night before.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
If you love a good breakfast casserole, try these reader favorites
- Breakfast Apple Pie French Toast
- Smoked Salmon Breakfast Casserole
- Berries Cream Cheese French Toast
- Berries ’n Cream French Toast Casserole
RECIPE TIP
Frozen brioche works well for this recipe—slice and freeze loaves so you can pull one out whenever you want to make this casserole.
If you try this Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole, leave a comment and rating. Enjoy!
Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 1–1/2 loaf brioche (about 20 slices)
- 10 slices slow-roasted ham
- 10 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp dried mustard
- Pinch salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray a 9 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Beat eggs with milk, dried mustard, and a pinch of salt.
- Brush the egg mixture on both sides of each brioche slice. Place a folded slice of ham and a slice of cheese between two slices of brioche.
- Arrange the sandwiches upright in the baking dish, side by side.
- Bake uncovered 23–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crisp. Serve with warm syrup and berries.
Nutrition information is an approximation.
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