Cheesy Breakfast Bread Casserole with Ham

This delightful breakfast casserole is a comforting dish featuring a delicious blend of ham, cheese, and spinach, making it a perfect choice for a weekend brunch or lazy morning meal. The soft bread absorbs the rich flavors of melted cheese and savory ham, while the fresh spinach adds a nutritious touch. It's an easy-to-make recipe that combines simple yet hearty ingredients, resulting in a fluffy texture with a golden, crispy cheese topping. Preparing this casserole is a fun activity for family and friends, and it can be customized with various ingredients to satisfy different tastes. The combination of creamy eggs and milk gives it a rich and smooth custard-like consistency. Adding spices like hmelii-suneli enhances the flavor, giving the dish a unique twist. Serve this casserole warm straight from the oven for the best experience, perhaps with a side of fresh fruit or a crisp green salad. Whether you are hosting a brunch or simply want to treat yourself to a satisfying breakfast, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with your preferred morning beverages for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Sauces and Spices

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp hmelii-suneli spices
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F).

2. Prepare the Spinach: In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach and sauté for about 2 minutes until wilted. Remove from the heat and set aside.

3. Mix the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and hmelii-suneli spices for a fragrant aroma.

4. Prepare the Bread: Cut the bread into small cubes. Use a serrated knife for the best results to avoid compressing the bread.

5. Grate the Cheese: Grate the cheese using a vegetable grater and separate around 30 g for topping later.

6. Prepare the Ham: Dice the smoked ham into smaller pieces, ensuring an even distribution in the casserole.

7. Assemble the Casserole: In an ovenproof dish, combine the bread cubes, diced ham, grated cheese, and wilted spinach. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, ensuring it soaks through all the bread layers.

8. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the reserved 30 g of cheese over the top of the assembled ingredients to create a crispy cheese crust once baked.

9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

10. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy this cheesy delight warm for a flavorful start to your day.

Tips

• Bread Choice: Use day-old bread for better texture as it absorbs the egg mixture well.
• Cheese: Experiment with different cheese varieties such as cheddar or mozzarella for varied flavors.
• Vegetables: Add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
• Portion Control: Use individual ramekins for personal portions and shorter baking time.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 320
• Protein: 20 g
• Fats: 18 g
• Carbs: 20 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and add more vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread instead of regular bread.
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of chili flakes to the egg mixture for added heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of mixed fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
• Pair with freshly brewed coffee or a smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added burst of flavor.

Best Places

• The Breakfast Club - Famous for its creative breakfast menu and quirky ambiance.
  Location: 33 D'Arblay St, London, United Kingdom.

• Eggslut - Known for its mouth-watering, egg-centric gourmet sandwiches.
  Location: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, United States.

• The Attendant - Offers award-winning breakfast dishes and high-quality coffee.
  Location: 27a Foley Street, London, United Kingdom.

• Jack’s Wife Freda - An American bistro with heartwarming meals and casual settings.
  Location: 50 Carmine Street, New York, United States.

• Maison Plisson - Combines a market and cafe serving fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
  Location: 93 Boulevard Beaumarchais, Paris, France.

• Brother Hubbard - Prized for its innovative breakfast dishes and relaxed atmosphere.
  Location: 153 Capel St, Dublin, Ireland.

• Silo - A zero-waste café offering sustainable and delicious dishes.
  Location: 39 Upper Gardner St, Brighton, United Kingdom.

• Café du Monde - Iconic spot noted for classic beignets and coffee.
  Location: 800 Decatur St, New Orleans, United States.

• Two Hands - Celebrated for its laid-back vibe and healthy, Australian-inspired menu.
  Location: 164 Mott St, New York, United States.

• Kaffeine - Renowned for its rich coffee and hearty breakfast options.
  Location: 66 Great Titchfield St, London, United Kingdom.

Enjoy your culinary journey and let this recipe bring a little joy to your breakfast table!