Ingredients

• 8 slices of bread (preferably day-old or slightly toasted)
• 12 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
• 8 slices of ham (you can use any type of deli ham or leftover cooked ham)
• 2 eggs
• Paprika, to taste
• 2 tablespoons of sour cream
• 100 grams of cheese, grated (for topping)

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Cheese Layers

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Layer the Bread: Arrange 4 slices of bread in a greased baking dish. If you prefer a crispy base, lightly toast the bread beforehand.
3. Add Cheese and Ham: Layer 6 slices of cheese over the bread. Then, place 4 slices of ham on top of the cheese. Repeat this step for the second layer using the remaining bread, cheese, and ham.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. Beat the Eggs: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 eggs with a pinch of paprika to taste.
2. Add Sour Cream: Mix in 2 tablespoons of sour cream to the egg mixture for a rich and creamy texture. The sour cream adds a nice tang and makes the mixture velvety.

Step 3: Assemble and Top

1. Pour the Egg Mixture: Evenly pour the egg mixture over the bread, ham, and cheese layers. The mixture will soak into the bread, adding moisture and flavor.
2. Top with Grated Cheese: Sprinkle the 100 grams of grated cheese over the top of the casserole. This will melt and create a golden, crispy topping.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the Dish: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the egg mixture is fully set.
2. Cool Slightly and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Tips

1. Use Stale Bread: Stale or day-old bread works best for this recipe because it absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy. If using fresh bread, consider toasting it lightly.
2. Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Sharp cheddar, gouda, or even Swiss cheese can bring a unique flavor to the dish.
3. Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, you can add layers of sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers between the bread and ham.
4. Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or more paprika for a spicy twist to the dish.
5. Cover While Baking: If the cheese on top starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent it from burning.

Storage

1. Refrigeration: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
2. Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
3. Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for quicker results, but the bread might lose some of its crispness.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 21g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of bread?

Yes, you can use any type of bread you have on hand. Whole grain, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread will work in this recipe. Just make sure to use slightly stale or toasted bread for the best texture.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven for a quick and easy meal.

3. What can I substitute for sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt or even mayonnaise for a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.

4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ham or replace it with a plant-based deli meat or extra vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

5. Can I add other ingredients to this dish?

Feel free to customize this dish with additional ingredients like sautéed onions, mushrooms, spinach, or even jalapeños for a bit of heat.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ham and Egg Bread Bake is an easy and versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is a go-to for its comforting layers of bread, cheese, and ham, all enveloped in a creamy egg mixture. Plus, it’s highly adaptable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients to make it your own. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory goodness!