Name: Crockpot Ham and Cheese Breakfast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 25 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup chopped green onions; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp mustard powder; 1.5 cups diced ham; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp melted butter; 8 cups bread, cubed; 8 large eggs

This Crockpot Ham and Cheese Breakfast Bake combines fluffy eggs, smoky ham, and melted cheese in a savory casserole. Perfect for a hassle-free brunch, it’s an easy, hands-off dish that delivers warm, comforting flavors for any morning gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crockpot ham and cheese breakfast bake is a savory morning treat that’s as delicious as it is convenient. The slow cooker blends fluffy eggs with smoky ham, gooey cheddar, and tender bread into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for busy mornings. Its hands-off cooking makes it ideal for holidays, brunches, or lazy weekends, while the rich flavors and protein-packed ingredients keep you satisfied. Versatile enough to pair with fruit or serve solo, this budget-friendly dish offers a warm, comforting start to the day with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use Stale Bread: Day-old bread or rolls absorb the egg mixture better for a firmer texture.

Grease Thoroughly: Coat the crockpot with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Layer Evenly: Arrange ingredients in even layers for consistent cooking and flavor distribution.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine eggs and bread to avoid a mushy consistency.

Add Cheese Late: Sprinkle cheese during the last hour to prevent over-melting or burning.
Check Moisture: Add a splash of milk if the mixture looks too dry during cooking.
Low Heat Only: Cook on low to keep the bake tender and avoid a rubbery texture.

Rest Before Serving: Let it sit for 10 minutes to set and enhance texture.

Yield: 10 servings

Crockpot Ham and Cheese Breakfast Bake

Savory crockpot ham and cheese breakfast bake, fluffy and delicious for easy mornings.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

¼ cup chopped green onions

¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
1 tsp mustard powder

1.5 cups diced ham
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

2 tbsp melted butter
8 cups bread, cubed
8 large eggs

Instructions

Prep the Bread: Cube the bread into 1-inch pieces and set aside, letting it dry out slightly if fresh.
Grease the Crockpot: Brush the inside of the slow cooker with melted butter to prevent sticking.
Layer the Base: Spread half the bread cubes evenly in the slow cooker for a solid foundation.

Add Ham and Onions: Sprinkle diced ham and half the green onions over the bread layer.
Mix the Custard: In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Soak the Bread: Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ham, and onions, ensuring even coating.

Top with Bread: Add the remaining bread cubes, pressing gently to soak up the custard.
Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the casserole is set and puffed.
Add Cheese: During the last hour, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top to melt.

Serve and Enjoy: Let rest for 10 minutes, then scoop into plates and garnish with remaining green onions!

Notes

Stale bread works best; dry it out overnight if using fresh.
Avoid lifting the lid often to maintain cooking consistency.

Adjust salt based on ham and cheese saltiness.
Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness.
This recipe can be adapted for vegan or low-sodium diets with appropriate swaps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 308Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 194mgSodium 715mgCarbohydrates 20gFiber 1gSugar 5gProtein 19g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Bread (8 cups, cubed): French bread or rolls, cubed (about 1 lb); stale is ideal for soaking.

Ham (1.5 cups, diced): Cooked ham adds smoky flavor; use leftover or deli ham.
Eggs (8 large): Provide structure and richness; use fresh for the best results.
Milk (2 cups): Whole milk adds creaminess; 2% works for a lighter option.

Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar melts beautifully; grate fresh for best texture.
Green Onions (¼ cup, chopped): Adds mild onion flavor and color; optional for garnish.
Mustard Powder (1 tsp): Enhances savory depth; Dijon mustard can substitute.

Salt (½ tsp): Seasons the mixture; adjust after adding ham and cheese.
Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a subtle kick; adjust to taste.
Butter (2 tbsp, melted): Used for greasing and a touch of richness.

Variations and Substitutions

Bread Swap: Use brioche, sourdough, or croissants for a different texture.
Meat Options: Substitute ham with bacon, sausage, or turkey for variety.
Milk Alternatives: Replace with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar with Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a blend.
Veggie Add-Ins: Mix in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, eggs, cheese, and butter substitutes.
Low-Sodium: Reduce salt and use low-sodium ham or cheese.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk.

Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months; thaw in fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven, adding milk to restore moisture.