Ham and Cheese Baked Egg Casserole
Ham and Cheese Baked Egg Casserole is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Charles Parks (Charlie) on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 15 min
Cost: $8.19 total, $2.05 per serving
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Ham (diced)
- 1 cup Colby Jack Cheese (shredded)
- 6 pieces Eggs (large)
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (chilled)
- 1 piece Red Bell Pepper (diced)
- 1 piece Green Bell Pepper (diced)
- 1 piece Onion (medium, diced)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Salt (kosher or table salt)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 tbsp Butter (for greasing baking sheet)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 350°F
Prepare Baking Sheet
Lightly grease the baking sheet with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Time: PT2M
Dice Vegetables and Ham
Dice the ham, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion into small, uniform pieces.
Time: PT5M
Whisk Eggs and Cream
In the mixing bowl, whisk together the six eggs and one cup of heavy whipping cream until fully combined.
Time: PT3M
Season the Custard
Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the egg‑cream mixture and whisk briefly.
Time: PT1M
Combine All Ingredients
Stir the diced ham, shredded Colby Jack cheese, bell peppers, and onion into the seasoned custard until evenly distributed.
Time: PT3M
Transfer to Baking Sheet
Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it into an even layer.
Time: PT2M
Bake
Place the sheet in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, checking at the 15‑minute mark for color and doneness.
Time: PT45M
Temperature: 350°F
Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then cut into squares and serve warm.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 5g
- Fat
- 25g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: High‑protein, Gluten‑free
Allergens: Eggs, Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Ham: turkey ham, cooked bacon bits
- Instead of Colby Jack Cheese: cheddar cheese, mozzarella
- Instead of Eggs: egg whites (use 8 whites)
- Instead of Heavy Whipping Cream: half‑and‑half, whole milk
- Instead of Red Bell Pepper: any color bell pepper
- Instead of Green Bell Pepper: any color bell pepper
- Instead of Onion: shallots, leeks
- Instead of Garlic Powder: fresh minced garlic (1 clove)
- Instead of Salt: sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: white pepper
- Instead of Butter: cooking spray, olive oil
Equipment Needed
- Oven
- Baking Sheet (9x13 inch)
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Fork
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Timer (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Preheating the oven to the correct temperature (350°F).
- Whisking the eggs and heavy cream together without over‑mixing.
- Baking for the full 45 minutes and checking for a set center.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Add a handful of fresh chopped herbs (parsley or chives) after baking for a bright finish.
- For a spicy kick, stir in ¼ tsp of crushed red pepper flakes with the seasonings.
- Use a metal cooling rack under the baking sheet to prevent the bottom from steaming.
Troubleshooting
Casserole is still liquid in the center after 45 minutes.
Return to the oven and bake an additional 5‑10 minutes, covering the top loosely with foil if it browns too quickly.
Top is too dry or over‑browned.
Cover the baking sheet with foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
Casserole is too dense or rubbery.
Add an extra 2‑3 tbsp of heavy cream next time to increase moisture.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the egg‑cream mixture and diced vegetables up to step 6, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Reheat leftovers in a preheated 300°F oven for 10‑12 minutes or microwave in 30‑second intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of a baked egg casserole in American breakfast cuisine?
Baked egg casseroles have been a staple of American home cooking since the mid‑20th century, offering a convenient way to combine protein, dairy, and vegetables into a single, make‑ahead dish for busy mornings or weekend brunches.
What regional variations of baked egg casseroles exist within the United States?
In the South, casseroles often feature sausage, cheddar, and biscuits; in the Midwest, they may include corn and ham; on the West Coast, you’ll find versions with avocado, feta, and fresh herbs.
How is a ham and cheese baked egg casserole traditionally served in American brunch settings?
It is typically sliced into squares and served warm alongside fresh fruit, toast or biscuits, and sometimes a dollop of salsa or hot sauce for extra flavor.
What occasions or celebrations is a baked egg casserole commonly associated with in American culture?
It’s popular for holiday brunches (Thanksgiving, Easter), pot‑luck gatherings, and as a make‑ahead option for school or work breakfasts.
What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for a classic American ham and cheese baked egg casserole?
The core ingredients are eggs, heavy cream or milk, diced ham, shredded cheese (often cheddar or Colby‑Jack), and a mix of bell peppers and onions for flavor and color.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this ham and cheese baked egg casserole?
Common errors include over‑mixing the egg mixture, under‑baking (resulting in a runny center), and using too much cheese which can cause excessive browning. Follow the bake time and check for a set center.
Why does this recipe use heavy whipping cream instead of milk?
Heavy cream adds richness and helps the custard set with a silky texture, while milk would produce a lighter, less creamy result that may be more prone to curdling.
Can I make the ham and cheese baked egg casserole ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to the baking step, refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours, then bake as directed. Leftovers store in the fridge for 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
What does the YouTube channel Charles Parks (Charlie) specialize in?
The YouTube channel Charles Parks (Charlie) focuses on simple, family‑friendly American comfort food recipes, often highlighting quick weeknight meals and make‑ahead dishes for busy households.
How does the YouTube channel Charles Parks (Charlie) approach American breakfast cooking differently from other cooking channels?
Charles Parks (Charlie) emphasizes minimal equipment, straightforward ingredient lists, and clear step‑by‑step narration, making classic breakfast dishes like this casserole accessible to novice home cooks without fancy gadgets.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
