Savory Bread Casserole with Cheese and Ham

This **savory bread casserole** with cheese and ham is a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of bread with the deliciousness of melted cheese and juicy ham. It’s a perfect choice for breakfast or brunch gatherings, offering a comforting and filling meal option. The dish is rich in flavors, thanks to the fresh spinach and carefully chosen spices. The **hmeli-suneli seasoning** adds a unique twist, elevating the casserole’s taste profile. The soft texture of eggs and milk enhances the dish, making it creamy and moist. Easy to prepare, this recipe can be enjoyed warm from the oven or served cold for a refreshing treat. With its versatile flavor, it pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes. Perfect for entertaining guests or treating yourself to a hearty meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the delightful harmony of ingredients, each handpicked for their contribution to the dish’s overall flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 150 g smoked ham
• 100 g bread
• 120 g Dutch cheese
• 70 g spinach
• 100 ml milk
• 4 eggs

Spices and Sauces

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp hmeli-suneli seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground pepper to taste

Preparation Time

• Total: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) to ensure it is hot when the casserole goes in.
2. Start by heating the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the spinach and sauté it gently for about 2 minutes until it wilts and turns a darker shade of green.
4. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs together with milk to create a smooth mixture.
5. Add the hmeli-suneli seasoning to the egg mixture, accompanied by a pinch of salt and a generous sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. Adjust to taste.
6. Cube the bread into small, bite-sized pieces.
7. Grate the Dutch cheese using a vegetable grater, setting aside some to sprinkle on top later.
8. Dice the smoked ham finely, ensuring you get small chunks that will distribute evenly throughout the casserole.
9. In a baking dish, combine the bread cubes, diced ham, and most of the grated cheese. Keep a little cheese aside for the topping.
10. Add the sautéed spinach to the mixture and stir gently to incorporate everything.
11. Pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread and ham ensemble, ensuring even coverage.
12. Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top for a delicious, cheesy crust.
13. Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the egg mixture is set.
14. Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly before slicing.
15. Serve warm for the best flavor experience, though it can also be enjoyed cold.
16. For an added touch, garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.

Tips

• Bread choice: Use day-old bread for a firmer texture that soaks up the egg mixture well.
• Cheese: Substitute Dutch cheese with cheddar or Swiss for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian version: Replace ham with mushrooms for a meatless alternative.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 320 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Variations

• Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
• For a spicy kick, mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free meal option.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables.
• Ideal with a glass of fresh orange juice or a hot cup of herbal tea.

Best Places

• Chez Paul's Breakfast Café - Known for its exquisite brunch options. Location: 123 Breakfast Lane, Paris, France.
• The Morning Toast - A homey atmosphere with a focus on comfort food. Location: 47 Brunch Road, Auckland, New Zealand.
• Sunny Side Up Bistro - Offers a wide range of breakfast casseroles and omelets. Location: 9 Sunrise Avenue, Sydney, Australia.
• Ham and Cheese Haven - Specializes in cheese-based breakfast dishes. Location: 88 Cheddar Way, London, UK.
• Spinach Delight Café - Famous for its varied use of greens in breakfast items. Location: 202 Spinach Street, San Francisco, USA.
• The Egg and Bread Spot - Famed for egg dishes with a twist. Location: 14 Eggshell Road, Toronto, Canada.
• Brunch Bliss Spot - Offers an uplifting brunch experience. Location: 321 Bliss Boulevard, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Casserole Corner - Known for hearty and fulfilling meals. Location: 111 Comfort Lane, Dublin, Ireland.
• Cheese Central Café - A haven for cheese lovers. Location: 33 Gouda Street, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Healthy Start Bistro - Focuses on nutritious and wholesome meals. Location: 57 Vitality Street, Tokyo, Japan.