🧀🍖 Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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4–5 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
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1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
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2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a mix)
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4 large eggs
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2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
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1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor)
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½ tsp garlic powder or onion powder (optional)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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2–3 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces
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Optional: chopped green onions, parsley, or herbs
Instructions
1. Preheat
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Oven: 350°F (175°C)
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the base
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Place cubed bread evenly in the baking dish.
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Sprinkle diced ham and shredded cheese on top.
3. Make the custard
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In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic/onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Pour evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese. Press down gently so bread absorbs the liquid.
4. Add the golden topping
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Dot small pieces of butter over the top (this helps create a golden crust).
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Optional: sprinkle extra cheese for an extra crispy top.
5. Bake
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Bake 35–45 minutes, until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
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Let it rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Ideas
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Serve with a fresh green salad for brunch.
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Add a side of roasted vegetables for dinner.
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Top with hot sauce or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-savory twist.
⭐ Tips & Variations
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Make-ahead: Assemble the night before, cover, refrigerate, then bake in the morning.
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Extra cheesy: Mix multiple cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère.
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Vegetable boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
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Crispier crust: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking.
If you want, I can also give you a mini muffin version or a low-carb version of this bake.
