Freezer Ham and Veggie Breakfast Casserole
A make-ahead breakfast casserole combining diced ham, sauteed vegetables, and eggs baked over a crouton base. The ham provides savory protein while bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach add color and nutrition. Perfect for holiday mornings or meal prep when you want a hearty breakfast ready to bake from the freezer. The croutons create a bread pudding-like texture that soaks up the seasoned egg mixture. Can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it ideal for busy families or entertaining guests without morning prep work.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ham, diced
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 1 cloves garlic, minced(optional)
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups spinach, chopped fresh
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 packages croutons, 5 ozcubed bread1:1carb
day-old bread works well
- 10 large eggs
- ¼ teaspoon Herbs de Provence
- ⅝ cup milk
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- 1
Saute ham, onions, garlic, peppers, and mushrooms in large skillet over medium heat until vegetables are crisp-tender
- 2
Add spinach and cook until just wilted
- 3
Season with salt and pepper
- 4
Grease 9x13 inch baking pan generously
- 5
Add croutons to bottom of pan in even layer
- 6
Whisk eggs, Herbs de Provence, milk, and 1/4 cup cheese in large bowl
- 7
Pour half of egg mixture over croutons
- 8
Top with ham and vegetable mixture
- 9
Pour remaining egg mixture over top
- 10
Sprinkle remaining cheese over surface
- 11
Cover with plastic wrap then aluminum foil
- 12
Freeze until ready to use
- 13
Thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking
- 14
Allow to stand at room temperature 15 minutes
- 15
Preheat oven to 375 degrees
- 16
Bake uncovered until golden and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean
- 17
Let stand 10 minutes before serving
Tips
Thaw completely in refrigerator overnight for even cooking and food safety
Let casserole stand at room temperature 15 minutes before baking to prevent cracking from temperature shock
Use day-old bread cubes instead of packaged croutons for a more homemade texture
Good to Know
freeze up to 3 months wrapped, refrigerate assembled casserole overnight before baking
assemble completely and freeze up to 3 months, thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking
let stand 10 minutes after baking, serve warm directly from baking dish
Common Mistakes
thaw completely to avoid uneven cooking
let stand at room temperature before baking to prevent cracking
do not overbake to avoid rubbery eggs
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
day-old bread works well
FAQ
Can I make this without freezing?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight, then bake as directed. The flavors will meld beautifully and save you morning prep time.
What if I don't have Herbs de Provence?
Substitute with dried thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning. Use the same amount or adjust to taste preference.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave or warm whole casserole in 350F oven.