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Make Ahead Ham and Swiss Brunch Bake

Close-up of a golden-brown slice of Make Ahead Ham and Swiss Brunch Bake showing chunks of ham in a fluffy egg and cheese base.

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Prepare this savory, protein-dense breakfast casserole the night before for a stress-free morning hosting experience. It bakes up beautifully for brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (13.25 ounce) loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 pound fully cooked ham, cubed
  • 10 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish.
  2. Scatter the cubed ham over the bread layer. Sprinkle both the Swiss and cheddar cheeses over the ham.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, dry mustard powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
  4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ham, and cheese layers. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
  5. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  6. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the plastic wrap.
  7. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, set in the center, and lightly golden brown.
  8. Let the overnight egg bake rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For the best texture, use slightly stale or day-old bread cubes.
  • If you need to bake this immediately, let the assembled casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before putting it in the oven, though overnight soaking yields better results.
  • You can substitute Gruyère cheese for some of the Swiss cheese for a deeper flavor.

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