Ham and Egg Breakfast Bake Recipe

Eggs: The base of the dish, providing protein and structure.

Ham: Adds a savory, meaty flavor to the bake.

Cheddar cheese: Melts into the dish, giving it a rich, cheesy taste.

Milk: Helps to create a creamy texture in the egg mixture.

Green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth to the flavor.

To achieve a fluffier texture in your eggs, try separating the egg whites from the yolks and whisking the whites until they form soft peaks before folding them back into the yolk mixture. This will incorporate more air into the bake, giving it a lighter, more soufflé-like consistency.

• eggs - Substitute with egg whites: For a lower cholesterol option, use egg whites instead of whole eggs.

• eggs - Substitute with tofu: Crumbled tofu can mimic the texture of scrambled eggs for a vegan alternative.

• diced ham - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still provides a similar smoky flavor.

• diced ham - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage crumbles.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella provides a milder flavor and a gooey texture.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture and a slight coconut flavor.

• green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives provide a similar mild onion flavor.

• green onions - Substitute with leeks: Thinly sliced leeks can offer a slightly sweeter onion flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: For a spicier kick, use cayenne pepper instead of black pepper.

• Allow the ham and egg breakfast bake to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

• Once cooled, cut the bake into individual portions. This makes it easier to grab a quick breakfast or snack later.

• Place the portions into airtight containers or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. For extra protection, you can also wrap them in aluminum foil.

• Store the containers or wrapped portions in the refrigerator. The breakfast bake will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This double-layer method helps prevent freezer burn.

• Label the containers or bags with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored. The ham and egg breakfast bake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

• When ready to eat, thaw the portions in the refrigerator overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave to defrost them.

• Reheat the portions in the microwave or oven. For the microwave, heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes.

• Enjoy your reheated ham and egg breakfast bake with a fresh side of fruit or a slice of toast for a complete meal.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover ham and egg breakfast bake in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the original texture and flavor.

• Microwave Method: Place a portion of the breakfast bake on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. This is the quickest method but may slightly alter the texture.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the leftover breakfast bake in the skillet, breaking it up slightly to ensure even heating. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. This method can add a nice crisp to the edges.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the breakfast bake in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method can give a slightly crispy texture to the cheese on top.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the breakfast bake on a toaster oven-safe tray. Cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method is convenient for smaller portions.

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) to bake the dish.

• Large bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs and milk.

• Whisk: Essential for mixing the eggs and milk thoroughly.

• Measuring cups: Needed to measure out the milk, ham, and cheese accurately.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to chop the green onions and dice the ham.

• Knife: Used to chop the green onions and dice the ham.

• Baking dish: Grease this dish before pouring in the egg mixture for baking.

• Cooking spray: Used to grease the baking dish to prevent sticking.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when placing the dish in the oven and taking it out.

• Timer: Helps keep track of the 30-minute baking time.

• Cooling rack: Place the baking dish on this to cool slightly before serving.

Pre-chop ingredients: Dice the ham and chop the green onions the night before to save time in the morning.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar or your favorite cheese to cut down on prep time.

Mix in advance: Whisk the eggs and milk together the night before and store in the fridge.

Grease the dish ahead: Prepare your baking dish in advance to streamline your morning routine.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze portions for a quick breakfast on busy days.