There’s a special joy that fills my kitchen when the weekend rolls around—an invitation to savor a well-deserved brunch with loved ones. Enter the Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole, a delightful breakfast dish that effortlessly combines comfort with convenience. The moment I pulled this creation from the oven, the buttery aroma of flaky biscuits met the savory scents of ham and melted cheese, promising a treat that could make any morning feel like a special occasion.
Not only is this casserole a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients that can be customized to suit your taste, it’s a versatile dish ready to adapt to whatever you have in your pantry. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch or simply wanting to elevate your breakfast routine, this casserole will become your go-to recipe for satisfying, high-protein comfort food. Get ready to indulge in layers of flavor that are as enjoyable to create as they are to devour!
Why will you love this Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole?
Irresistibly Easy: This casserole is a breeze to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings or relaxed weekends.
Endless Customization: Use different cheeses, meats, or veggies to create your ultimate version—there’s no wrong way to go!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: Rich, savory ham combined with gooey cheese and flaky biscuits makes for a delightful savory treat everyone will love.
Time-Saving: You can prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven for a fuss-free breakfast option.
Heartfelt Comfort Food: Enjoy a cozy dish that combines your favorite breakfast elements into one warm, satisfying bite.
Get ready to impress your guests with this delicious creation that’s sure to bring smiles to the breakfast table!
Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Smithfield Anytime Favorites Cubed Ham – Adds protein and savory flavor; substitute with any diced cooked ham or turkey for variation.
• Pre-made Flaky Layers Biscuit (16 oz) – Provides structure and flakiness; can replace with homemade biscuit dough if desired.
• Eggs (4 large) – Binds the casserole and adds richness; use egg substitutes for a lighter option.
• Whole Milk (8 tbsp) – Moistens the mixture; substitutable with any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
• Chopped Green Bell Pepper (½ cup) – Contributes flavor and color; can swap for any bell pepper or omit if not preferred.
• Butter (1 tbsp) – Adds richness; use olive oil or a dairy-free alternative if needed.
• Dijon Mustard (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor depth; substitute with yellow mustard or omit for less spice.
• Freshly Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (½ cup) – Provides a melty texture; swap with any melting cheese such as Gouda or Monterey Jack.
• Freshly Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (¾ cup) – Introduces a sharp flavor; can replace with mild cheddar or a vegan cheese option.
• Chopped Green Onion (⅓ cup, optional) – Adds freshness; use chives or omit for simplicity.
• Chopped Fresh Rosemary (1 tbsp, optional) – Offers aromatic notes; replace with thyme or oregano if preferred.
• Minced Garlic (1 clove, optional) – Adds savory depth; can substitute with garlic powder.
• Salt (¼ tsp) and Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – Basic seasoning; adjust to taste.
This delectable Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole is just waiting for you to bring it to life in your kitchen!
How to Make Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This essential step ensures that your casserole bakes evenly, resulting in that delicious golden crust everyone loves.
- Sauté the chopped green bell pepper in a skillet with melted butter until tender, about 5 minutes. Once it’s soft and fragrant, set it aside to cool slightly.
- Whisk together the eggs and whole milk in a large bowl until smooth. Add the Dijon mustard, optional rosemary, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, creating a creamy mixture full of flavor.
- Cut each biscuit into 1-inch pieces. Coat the biscuit pieces in the egg mixture, ensuring they’re well soaked and ready to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
- Fold in the cubed ham, sautéed bell pepper, green onions, and shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until everything is just combined. Be gentle to maintain some texture from the biscuits.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. This will allow the casserole to cook through thoroughly, creating layers of yummy goodness.
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes. Check for doneness: the center should be set, and a knife inserted should come out clean. The top should have a beautiful, golden-brown hue.
Optional: For a delightful crispy finish, broil the top for a couple of minutes after baking.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole
- Even Cuts: Ensure you cut the biscuits into uniform pieces for consistent baking and texture. Avoid larger pieces that may remain doughy inside.
- Cooling Time: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier while enhancing flavors.
- Broil for Crispiness: For a crunchy top, consider broiling the casserole for a couple of minutes. Just watch closely to avoid burning!
- Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper based on the saltiness of your ham. A little taste test can go a long way in elevating this ham and cheese pull-apart bread casserole.
- Load Up on Veggies: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition.
What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole?
Looking to create a delightful brunch spread that will leave your guests raving? Pair your casserole with these tasty accompaniments to elevate your meal.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the savory casserole, balancing flavors beautifully.
- Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a crunchy texture that complements the rich, gooey layers of the casserole.
- Savory Breakfast Potatoes: Golden, roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a deliciously hearty side dish, enhancing the comfort food experience.
- Buttery Croissants: Flaky, buttery croissants are a perfect addition to your spread, inviting guests to indulge in a luxurious brunch.
- Herbed Yogurt Dip: A cooling yogurt dip with fresh herbs provides a creamy texture that elevates any bites of casserole, adding a refreshing touch.
- Apple Cider Mimosas: Sparkling and festive, this drink pairs wonderfully with the hearty flavors of the casserole, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Chocolate Chip Muffins: These sweet treats offer a delightful contrast to the savory dish, perfect for those who love a balance of flavors on their plate.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage, whether rich coffee or fragrant tea, rounds out the brunch experience, ensuring every sip complements your delicious meal.
Prepare to impress your family and friends with this delightful combination, making your brunch gatherings feel like a special occasion!
Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole Variations
Embrace the kitchen’s creativity by tailoring this casserole to your unique taste—every bite is an opportunity to explore!
- Bacon Swap: Replace cubed ham with crispy bacon for a smoky twist that adds crunch and flavor.
- Sausage Swap: Use crumbled breakfast sausage to impart a spiced, savory depth to your casserole.
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the meat entirely and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini for a hearty, plant-based option. The vegetables will add freshness and a variety of textures that balance with the cheesy goodness.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra zing that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Rich and Creamy: Substitute the milk with heavy cream for an indulgent twist that results in an ultra-rich casserole everyone will savor.
- Chili Cheese Style: Mix in some chili powder and use pepper jack cheese to create a spicy, flavorful casserole that’s sure to please heat lovers.
- Herb-Infused: Try swapping out the rosemary for fresh basil or thyme, giving it a fresh herbal aroma that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts on top before baking for a delightful crunchy topping that contrasts with the soft interior.
These variations not only deliver exciting new flavors but also let this versatile dish shine in different culinary lights. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Make Ahead Options
These Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casseroles are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the entire mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining all the ingredients and transferring them to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out, and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re set to serve the casserole, simply remove it from the fridge and bake it as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it warms through completely. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, hassle-free breakfast that feels just as fresh as if you made it that morning!
How to Store and Freeze Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole
Room Temperature: Let the casserole cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours. It’s best to move it to the fridge if you need to keep it longer.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating: For best results, reheat leftover ham and cheese pull-apart bread casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of ham should I use for the casserole?
Absolutely! I recommend using Smithfield Anytime Favorites Cubed Ham for its savory flavor. However, feel free to substitute it with any diced cooked ham or even turkey if you’d like a lighter option.
How do I store leftovers of the casserole?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the casserole cools completely before storing. It’s best reheated in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze the Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole?
Yes! For effective freezing, it’s best to cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and bake as directed.
What can I add to customize this casserole?
The more the merrier! You can personalize your Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole by adding seasonal veggies like spinach or tomatoes or swapping in different cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire mixture the night before. Just store it covered in the fridge and bake it fresh in the morning for an easy, fuss-free breakfast.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can modify it easily by using dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives for a lactose-free version. For egg substitutes, consider using flax eggs or commercial egg replacements for an egg-free option.
Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Bread Casserole for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté the chopped green bell pepper in a skillet with melted butter until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Whisk together the eggs and whole milk in a large bowl until smooth. Add the Dijon mustard, optional rosemary, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Cut each biscuit into 1-inch pieces and coat them in the egg mixture.
- Fold in the cubed ham, sautéed bell pepper, green onions, and shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes. Check for doneness and broil for a crispy finish if desired.
