Serving: Serve your Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake warm. It’s great on its own or accompanied by a side salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. If you want to make it more indulgent, drizzle with a bit of extra melted cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a warm oven until heated through. You can also freeze the bake for up to a month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
Variations:
Vegetarian: Swap out the ham for sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
Meat lovers: Include additional meats like cooked bacon, sausage, or turkey along with the ham for an even heartier dish.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
FAQs:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge and bake as directed. It may need an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyère, Swiss, or even a spicy pepper jack can all bring new flavors to this dish.
What’s the best bread to use?
Thick-cut, hearty bread like sourdough, brioche, or French bread works best, as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute the milk with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk to make the recipe dairy-free.
How can I make this dish more crispy?
For an extra crispy texture, increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes, or place it under the broiler for a couple of minutes at the end of baking, but watch closely to prevent burning.
