Introduction
Ham and Cheese Breakfast is a simple yet deeply satisfying way to start the morning, combining savoury ham, melted cheese, and comforting breakfast staples into one reliable dish. Whether served as a bake, skillet meal, or layered breakfast option, this combination delivers familiar flavours that feel both hearty and comforting. It is perfect for busy mornings, relaxed weekends, or when you need a make-ahead breakfast that feeds more than one person. I often turn to this recipe when I want something filling that does not require complicated preparation. The saltiness of the ham balances beautifully with the creamy, melted cheese, while eggs and bread or potatoes provide structure and substance. Warm, flavourful, and endlessly adaptable, ham and cheese breakfast is a dependable classic that never disappoints.
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Ham and Cheese Breakfast: A Warm, Savoury Start to the Day
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
Description
Ham and Cheese Breakfast is a quick and satisfying morning dish made with fluffy eggs, savory ham, and melted cheese, perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 120 ml milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- 150 g cooked ham, diced
- 120 g shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced ham and sauté for 2–3 minutes until lightly browned.
- Pour the egg mixture into the skillet.
- Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until eggs begin to set.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the eggs.
- Continue cooking until eggs are fully set and cheese is melted.
- Remove from heat, garnish with green onions if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Serve with toast or hash browns if desired.
- You can add bell peppers or onions for extra flavor.
- Use leftover ham for a quick breakfast.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick to assemble, uses everyday ingredients, and works well for meal prep. It is filling, family-friendly, and easily customised. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated the next day, it maintains great flavour and texture.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Eggs
Eggs form the foundation of the breakfast, providing structure, protein, and a soft, fluffy texture when baked.
Ham
Ham adds savoury, salty flavour and makes the dish hearty and satisfying. Diced cooked ham works best.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese melts smoothly and adds rich, bold flavour that pairs perfectly with ham.
Milk
Milk helps create a creamy egg mixture and keeps the texture tender.
Bread or Potatoes
Bread cubes or cooked potatoes add substance and help turn this into a complete breakfast dish.
Butter
Butter adds richness and prevents sticking while enhancing overall flavour.
Salt
Salt enhances the eggs and balances the richness of the cheese.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and contrast.
Green Onions
Green onions add freshness and mild onion flavour without overpowering the dish.
Directions
Preheat the oven to 180°C and lightly grease a baking dish with butter.
Spread the bread cubes or potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish, followed by the diced ham and shredded cheese.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the ham and cheese layers.
Sprinkle green onions over the top.
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden. Allow to rest briefly before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately four to six people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and baking time is 35–40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Variations and Customizations
Ham and Cheese Breakfast is very flexible. Swiss or Monterey Jack cheese can be substituted for cheddar for a milder flavour. I have also prepared this dish with added spinach or bell peppers, which added colour and freshness without extra effort.
For a richer version, a small amount of cream can replace part of the milk. If you prefer a low-carb option, omit the bread or potatoes and increase the egg and ham ratio. This recipe can also be assembled the night before and baked in the morning, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish provides protein from eggs and ham, along with calcium from cheese. Using reduced-fat cheese or milk can slightly lower fat content. Portion size can be adjusted to meet dietary needs.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Whisk Eggs Thoroughly
Well-whisked eggs create a lighter, more even texture.
Do Not Overbake
Remove from the oven once set to keep the eggs tender.
Let It Rest
Resting helps the breakfast slice cleanly and improves texture.
FAQs
Can I make this breakfast ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it the night before and bake in the morning.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but Swiss works very well.
Can I use leftover ham?
Yes, leftover ham is ideal for this recipe.
Is this freezer-friendly?
It can be frozen, but texture is best when fresh.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, peppers, spinach, or mushrooms work well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use potatoes instead of bread for a gluten-free version.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives.
Does this work as a breakfast-for-dinner meal?
Yes, it is perfect for any time of day.
How do I know it is fully cooked?
The centre should be set and no longer liquid.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust time slightly.
Conclusion
Ham and Cheese Breakfast is a warm, comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. Easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for sharing, it works equally well for busy mornings, weekend brunch, or make-ahead meals. With its classic flavour combination and dependable results, this breakfast recipe is one you will return to again and again.
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