Savory Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake Recipe For Dinner

Golden comfort arrives with this ham and cheese bake that whispers memories of home-cooked warmth.

Layers of melted cheese and savory ham create a delightful symphony on your plate.

Crisp edges promise a delectable crunch that makes every bite irresistible.

Simplicity meets flavor in this straightforward recipe that requires minimal ingredients.

Weekend gatherings become extraordinary when this golden masterpiece emerges from the oven.

Cheesy goodness and tender ham promise a meal that feels like a culinary hug.

Trust me, you won’t be able to resist cutting into this golden marvel.

Why Golden Crusted Ham And Cheese Bake Is A Cheesy Classic

• Conquer Quick Meals: Perfect for busy families needing a speedy, satisfying lunch or dinner solution that requires minimal preparation and delivers maximum flavor.
• Transform Ordinary Sandwiches: Elevate classic ham and cheese into a hot, gourmet-style bake that turns simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish everyone will love.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like different cheeses, meats, or bread types to match personal preferences or use what's available in your kitchen, making this recipe incredibly versatile.
• Minimal Cleanup Hero: Using just one baking dish means less washing up, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans.

Everything You Need For Golden Crusted Ham And Cheese Bake

• Bread: Soft white bread that serves as the base for the sandwiches.
• Ham: Savory sliced ham that provides protein and flavor to the dish.
• Cheese: Melty cheese that adds richness and creates a golden crust.

• Eggs: Binding ingredient that helps create a custardy texture.
• Milk: Liquid that adds moisture and helps the egg mixture coat the sandwiches.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

• Extra Cheese: Optional topping that adds extra cheesiness and golden color on top of the bake.

How To Bake Golden Crusted Ham And Cheese Bake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Turn on the oven and set the temperature to 190-200°C (375-400°F). This will ensure your kitchen is ready for some delicious baking magic.

Step 2: Create the Egg Blend

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, and a tiny sprinkle of salt. This liquid mixture will give your sandwiches a rich, creamy texture.

Step 3: Build Tasty Sandwich Layers

• Cheese slice
• Ham slice
• Another cheese slice

Top each stack with a second bread slice to create perfect sandwich bundles.

Step 4: Soak and Prepare

Gently dunk each sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure both sides get a nice, even coating. Transfer the soaked sandwiches into a baking dish, arranging them snugly.

Step 5: Add Extra Cheesy Goodness

Sprinkle an additional layer of cheese on top of the sandwiches. This will create a golden, bubbling crust that’s irresistibly delicious.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts into a beautiful golden blanket and the bread turns a gorgeous crispy brown.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the bake cool for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set and makes cutting easier.

Slice and serve while warm for maximum enjoyment.

Tips For Golden Crusted Ham And Cheese Bake Perfection

• Choose thick-cut bread for a heartier texture that holds up well during dipping and baking.
• Swap ham with turkey or plant-based protein for a dietary alternative that maintains flavor and texture.
• Sprinkle dried herbs like oregano or thyme over the top before baking to enhance the overall taste profile.
• Use room temperature eggs for smoother mixing and more even coating of the sandwiches.
• Pat the bread dry after dipping to prevent excess moisture and ensure a crispy golden exterior.

Flavor Variations For Golden Crusted Ham And Cheese Bake

• Mediterranean Marvel: Replace ham with prosciutto, add sundried tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for an Italian-inspired version that brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
• Spicy Southwest Fusion: Swap ham for shredded chicken, incorporate pepper jack cheese, sprinkle chopped jalapeños, and add a dash of chipotle powder for a zesty southwestern kick.
• Vegetarian Garden Blend: Substitute ham with grilled zucchini and roasted red peppers, use mozzarella cheese, and include fresh spinach leaves for a nutritious plant-based alternative.
• Breakfast Sunrise Edition: Layer crispy bacon instead of ham, include scrambled eggs within the sandwich, top with cheddar cheese, and garnish with fresh chives for a morning-style transformation.

What Goes Great With Golden Crusted Ham And Cheese Bake

• Elevate Flavor Harmony: Perfectly Matched Companions
• Crisp Salad Sidekick: Prepare a light, tangy mixed green salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the ham and cheese bake. Fresh arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon dressing will provide a refreshing contrast.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Select a crisp, medium-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines complement the salty ham and melted cheese while offering a bright, acidic balance to the dish's richness.
• Zesty Pickle Companion: Serve with crunchy dill pickles or pickled vegetables on the side. Their sharp, briny flavor will cleanse the palate and add a delightful texture contrast to the warm, gooey bake.

Storage Advice For Golden Crusted Ham And Cheese Bake

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between sandwich layers to prevent sticking.
• Freeze: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for maximum 1 month to maintain optimal taste and texture.
• Microwave Reheat: Warm each sandwich slice for 30-45 seconds on medium power. Add a damp paper towel to prevent dryness and restore moisture.
• Oven Reheat: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQs About Golden Crusted Ham And Cheese Bake

• Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various bread types like white, wheat, sourdough, or brioche. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling and absorb the egg mixture.

• What kind of ham works best in this dish?

Any sliced ham works well, such as honey ham, black forest ham, or deli-style ham. Choose a ham you enjoy for the best flavor.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids typically love cheesy, crispy baked sandwiches. The simple ingredients and golden crust make it an appealing meal for children.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the sandwiches and keep them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold.

Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake Recipe

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4.5 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savor comfort with this golden ham and cheese bake, a delightful fusion of melted cheese and succulent ham nestled in a crispy, golden crust. Home chefs will fall in love with this simple yet satisfying dish that promises warmth and flavor in every delectable bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 6 slices of ham
• 12 slices of cheese
• 12 slices of bread

Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 100 milliliters (3.4 fluid ounces) of milk

Seasoning:

• 1 pinch of salt
• Additional cheese for topping

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Instructions

1. Prepare the egg emulsion by vigorously whisking eggs with milk and a subtle salt seasoning in a wide mixing bowl.
2. Create layered sandwich stacks by positioning cheese and ham between bread slices, ensuring each sandwich has two cheese layers sandwiching the ham.
3. Carefully immerse each constructed sandwich into the egg mixture, thoroughly coating both exterior surfaces to guarantee a rich, custardy exterior.
4. Transfer the egg-drenched sandwiches into a preheated baking vessel, positioning them strategically to maximize even heat distribution.
5. Enhance the flavor profile by generously sprinkling additional cheese across the sandwich surface, creating a potential crispy, golden topping.
6. Slide the baking dish into a 190°C oven, allowing the sandwiches to transform for 15-20 minutes until the edges turn golden and the cheese melts into a luxurious, bubbling blanket.
7. Remove from the oven and permit the ham and cheese bake to rest for several minutes, enabling the internal temperature to stabilize and flavors to meld harmoniously before serving.

Notes

• Choose low-fat cheese and lean ham to create a healthier version of this comforting dish.
• Experiment with gluten-free bread for those with wheat sensitivities, ensuring the same delicious texture and taste.
• Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil between cheese layers to boost flavor complexity and create a gourmet twist.
• Swap regular milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free alternative that maintains the recipe’s creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg