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Fluffy Easter Brunch Egg Bake with Ham and Cheddar

Easter brunch egg bake - featured image

This make-ahead egg bake is the perfect centerpiece for Easter brunch, featuring fluffy whipped eggs, smoky ham, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and delivers nostalgic comfort with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups cubed cooked ham
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for greasing dish and flavor)
  • Optional: chopped fresh chives or parsley
  • Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell pepper or sautéed mushrooms
  • Optional: substitute cheddar with Swiss, Monterey Jack, or smoked gouda

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with 1 tablespoon melted butter.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat with a whisk or electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until very frothy and pale yellow.
  4. Add milk and sour cream to the eggs and whisk until smooth.
  5. Sprinkle the dry ingredient mixture over the wet ingredients and whisk until just blended.
  6. Reserve 1/2 cup cheddar cheese for topping. Gently fold in the remaining cheese, ham, and green onions. Add optional veggies or herbs if desired.
  7. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle reserved cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  8. Bake for 40-50 minutes, until the center is set and the top is puffed and golden. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  9. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra green onions or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For extra fluffiness, whip eggs thoroughly. Sauté watery veggies before adding. Assemble the night before for easy mornings. Use gluten-free flour for GF option or omit ham for vegetarian. Let bake rest before slicing for clean cuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: Easter brunch, egg bake, ham and cheddar, make ahead, casserole, fluffy eggs, breakfast, brunch, holiday recipe