If you love the savory flavors of a classic Denver omelette but want something even more convenient and crowd-friendly, then this Denver Omelette Egg Bake is the perfect dish for you. Packed with eggs, ham, bell peppers, onions, and cheese, this hearty casserole combines the best of breakfast and brunch in one delicious dish.
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Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, prepping meals for the week, or simply looking for a satisfying breakfast option, this recipe will hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is straightforward enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the egg mixture the night before, and bake it fresh in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs—it’s versatile and forgiving.
Feeds a Crowd: This casserole serves multiple people, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or meal prep.
Ingredients
To make this Denver Omelette Egg Bake, you’ll need:
12 large eggs
1 cup of whole milk (or your preferred milk alternative)
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
1 cup of diced cooked ham
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup of diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup of diced onion
1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and onions, and sauté for 3-5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will be the base of your egg bake.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add the diced ham on top, followed by half of the shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the surface.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a knife or toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the egg bake is ready.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired, and serve warm. Pair it with fresh fruit, toast, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables and good-quality ham.
Prevent Overbaking: Keep an eye on the egg bake during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid drying out the eggs.
Customize It: Add cooked bacon, sausage, mushrooms, or spinach for a personalized touch.
Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether.
Reheat Like a Pro: Warm leftovers in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or in the microwave for a quick meal.
FAQs
1. Can I make this egg bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven. Alternatively, you can bake it ahead of time and reheat it when needed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I use egg substitutes?
Yes, you can use liquid egg substitutes or a combination of whole eggs and egg whites to lighten the dish. Follow the equivalent measurement instructions on the egg substitute packaging.
4. What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Swiss, pepper jack, or even feta for different flavor profiles.
5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham or replace it with a plant-based alternative. Adding extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach can also enhance the dish.
6. How do I double the recipe?
For a larger crowd, double the ingredients and use two 9x13-inch baking dishes. Bake them simultaneously, rotating the pans halfway through for even cooking.
7. Can I add spices or herbs?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of smoked paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning to the egg mixture for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or cilantro also work beautifully as garnishes or mix-ins.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
The Denver Omelette Egg Bake offers the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and convenience. It’s nutritious, adaptable, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or need a quick weekday breakfast, this dish delivers every time.
Give this recipe a try, and let the comforting flavors of a Denver omelette shine in an easy-to-make casserole form. Your taste buds will thank you!
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