Mexican Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole: A Fiesta for Your Morning!
Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Do you crave something savory, cheesy, and bursting with flavor to kickstart your day? Look no further! This Mexican Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is the answer to your breakfast prayers. It’s easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd, and guaranteed to be a family favorite. Imagine layers of fluffy eggs, melted cheese, savory ham, and zesty Mexican-inspired spices all baked to golden perfection. This casserole is not just breakfast; it’s a celebration of flavors and a delicious way to start your day.
This recipe is versatile, meaning you can easily customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Want to add more vegetables? Go for it! Prefer a different type of cheese? No problem! The possibilities are endless. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
## Why You’ll Love This Mexican Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is incredibly simple, even for beginner cooks. Just layer the ingredients, pour in the egg mixture, and bake. No complicated steps or fancy techniques required.
* **Perfect for Meal Prep:** Make this casserole on Sunday and enjoy delicious breakfasts all week long. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** Whether you’re hosting a brunch, feeding a hungry family, or just want to impress your friends, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. Add your favorite vegetables, swap out the cheese, or use a different type of meat.
* **Flavorful:** The combination of ham, cheese, and Mexican spices creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Bread:** 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of crusty bread, such as French or sourdough, cut into 1-inch cubes
* **Ham:** 1 pound of cooked ham, diced
* **Cheese:** 2 cups of shredded cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend
* **Eggs:** 12 large eggs
* **Milk:** 2 cups of milk
* **Onion:** 1 medium onion, chopped
* **Bell Pepper:** 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
* **Green Chiles:** 1 (4 ounce) can of diced green chiles, undrained
* **Cilantro:** 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves of garlic, minced
* **Spices:** 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
* **Optional Toppings:** Salsa, sour cream, avocado, chopped green onions
## Equipment You’ll Need
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Large bowl
* Whisk
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Mexican Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole:
**Step 1: Prepare the Bread**
Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. You can use day-old bread for best results, as it will absorb the egg mixture better. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until lightly toasted. This will help prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
**Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or cooking spray over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
**Step 3: Combine the Ingredients**
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed vegetables, diced green chiles, chopped cilantro, and diced ham to the egg mixture. Stir to combine.
**Step 4: Assemble the Casserole**
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread half of the toasted bread cubes in the bottom of the dish. Top with half of the cheese and half of the ham and egg mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread cubes, cheese, and egg mixture. Gently press down on the casserole to ensure that the bread is submerged in the egg mixture.
**Step 5: Bake the Casserole**
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the eggs are set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
**Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve**
Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting and serving. This will allow the eggs to set completely and make it easier to slice. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, avocado, and chopped green onions.
## Tips and Variations
* **Use Different Types of Bread:** Feel free to experiment with different types of bread, such as croissants, brioche, or even leftover cornbread.
* **Add More Vegetables:** Load up your casserole with your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, or zucchini.
* **Swap Out the Cheese:** Use any type of cheese you like, such as pepper jack, Gruyere, or mozzarella.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the ham and add more vegetables or vegetarian sausage crumbles.
* **Add Some Heat:** For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the egg mixture.
* **Make it Ahead:** Assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
* **Reheat Instructions:** Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
## Serving Suggestions
This Mexican Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to take it to the next level:
* **Serve with Salsa and Sour Cream:** These classic toppings add a tangy and creamy contrast to the savory casserole.
* **Add Avocado:** Sliced or diced avocado adds a creamy and healthy touch.
* **Garnish with Green Onions:** Chopped green onions add a fresh and vibrant flavor.
* **Serve with a Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich casserole.
* **Offer a Variety of Hot Sauces:** Let your guests customize the heat level with their favorite hot sauces.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 400-500 per serving (depending on ingredients and serving size)
* Protein: 25-35 grams per serving
* Fat: 20-30 grams per serving
* Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams per serving
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I use frozen bread for this recipe?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen bread. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cutting it into cubes.
**Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?**
A: Yes, you can make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free bread.
**Q: Can I use a different type of milk?**
A: Yes, you can use any type of milk you like, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Keep in mind that using non-dairy milk may slightly alter the taste and texture of the casserole.
**Q: Can I add sausage to this casserole?**
A: Absolutely! Sausage is a great addition to this casserole. Just cook the sausage before adding it to the egg mixture.
**Q: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?**
A: Toasting the bread cubes before assembling the casserole will help prevent it from becoming soggy. Also, make sure to drain the diced green chiles if they are very watery.
**Q: Can I freeze this casserole?**
A: While you can freeze the casserole, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
## Conclusion
This Mexican Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and delicious flavors, it’s the perfect way to start your day. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, feeding a hungry family, or simply craving a savory breakfast, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a fiesta for your morning! Don’t forget to experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own unique version. Happy cooking!