Cheesy Ham and Cheese Bread Bake

### Instructions for Making Cheesy Ham and Cheese Bread Bake

Making this savory bake is easy and requires just a few simple steps. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. **Prepare the Bread**:
– If you’re using fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours or overnight to dry out a bit. Day-old bread works best for this recipe because it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. Cut the bread into bite-sized cubes.

2. **Layer the Bread and Ham**:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
– In the prepared baking dish, layer the cubed bread and diced ham, alternating between the two. Aim for an even distribution of bread and ham throughout the dish.

3. **Make the Egg Mixture**:
– In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. This mixture will be the custard base that holds everything together and gives the bake its creamy texture.

4. **Pour the Egg Mixture Over the Bread**:
– Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and ham. Press the bread down lightly to make sure it absorbs the liquid. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the egg mixture.

5. **Add the Cheese**:
– Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the bread and ham. If you like your bake extra cheesy, feel free to add more cheese to taste.

6. **Bake**:
– Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the eggs are set. You can test this by gently inserting a knife into the center — it should come out clean when the dish is fully cooked.

7. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– Once the casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or herbs of your choice for a pop of color and added flavor.
– Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness.

### Tips for Success

– **Use Stale Bread**: Fresh bread can make the dish too soggy, so using slightly stale or day-old bread is key. If your bread is fresh, just leave it out for a few hours to dry out before using it.

– **Cheese Options**: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Swiss, Gruyère, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat. A cheese blend works well for a balanced flavor.

– **Add Veggies**: If you want to add more veggies to the dish, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. Simply cook the vegetables first and mix them into the casserole along with the ham.

– **Make It Ahead**: This dish is great for meal prepping. You can assemble it the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it the next day for an easy, stress-free meal.

– **Freezing**: If you have leftovers, this casserole freezes well. Simply let it cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

### Why Cheesy Ham and Cheese Bread Bake is Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served for any meal. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch, a weeknight dinner, or even as a holiday dish when you have leftover ham. It’s an easy, one-pan recipe that’s guaranteed to please a crowd. Plus, it can be served with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

If you’re hosting a family gathering, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that is both filling and comforting. It’s also a great dish to prepare for a busy week ahead since it can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer for later.

### Final Thoughts

Cheesy Ham and Cheese Bread Bake is the ultimate comfort food, offering all the cheesy, savory goodness you crave in one dish. With simple ingredients, minimal prep time, and endless customization options, this casserole is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, using up leftovers, or just craving a cozy meal, this bake is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Try it out today, and enjoy a cheesy, delicious dish that will quickly become a family favorite!