If you’re searching for a foolproof brunch dish or weeknight dinner solution, this Bobby Flay Ham and Cheese Casserole Recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Inspired by Bobby Flay’s Mediterranean cooking style, this savory baked casserole transforms simple pantry staples into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece. The combination of smoky diced ham, sharp cheddar, and a creamy custard base creates layers of flavor that satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re meal prepping for busy mornings or hosting a weekend gathering, this Bobby Flay Mediterranean ham and cheese casserole recipe proves that comfort food can be both elegant and effortless.
What Does Bobby Flay Ham and Cheese Casserole Taste Like?
This Bobby Flay Mediterranean ham and cheese casserole offers a harmonious blend of savory, creamy, and subtly tangy flavors. The sharp cheddar provides a bold, nutty richness that melts beautifully into every bite, while the diced ham adds a smoky, salty depth.
The Dijon mustard brings a gentle tang that cuts through the richness without overpowering the dish. The custard base made with eggs and milk creates a velvety, quiche-like texture that binds everything together.
The golden, bubbly cheese crust on top adds a satisfying crunch, contrasting perfectly with the tender, custardy interior. It’s comfort food elevated with Mediterranean sensibility.
Paul Hollywood Cinnamon Snowflake Recipe Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Cooked ham (diced) – 2 cups
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – 2 cups
- Eggs – 4 large
- Milk (whole or 2%) – 2 cups
- Day-old bread cubes or cooked pasta (elbow/mac) – 4 cups
- Dijon mustard – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Butter (for greasing dish) – 1 tablespoon
- Chopped green onions or chives (optional) – 2 tablespoons
Essential Kitchen Utensils:
- 9×13-inch casserole dish or baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
- Cutting board and knife
Preparation and Cooking Time
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 45 minutes | 55 minutes | 6 servings |
Category: Main Course
Cooking Method: Baking
Cuisine: American with Mediterranean influence
Step-by-Step Paul Hollywood Cinnamon Snowflake Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the ingredients. Generously grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter, ensuring all corners and sides are coated to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer
Spread the 4 cups of day-old bread cubes or cooked pasta evenly across the bottom of your greased casserole dish. Using stale or day-old bread is key it absorbs the custard mixture without becoming overly soggy, creating the perfect texture.
Step 3: Add Ham and Cheese Layers
Distribute the 2 cups of diced cooked ham evenly over the bread or pasta base. Sprinkle 1½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the ham layer, reserving the remaining ½ cup for topping. This layering technique ensures every forkful contains balanced flavors.
Step 4: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper until thoroughly combined. The Dijon mustard is Bobby Flay’s signature touch, adding sophisticated depth to this Mediterranean-inspired casserole.
Step 5: Pour and Top the Casserole
Slowly pour the egg custard mixture evenly over the entire casserole, ensuring it seeps into all the bread cubes or pasta. Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top, along with optional chopped green onions or chives for a fresh finishing touch.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and the custard has set completely. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the Bobby Flay ham and cheese casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the custard to firm up, making serving and portioning much easier while keeping the layers intact.
Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving
1. Mediterranean Vegetable Variation
Transform this into a true Bobby Flay Mediterranean ham and cheese casserole by adding sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and kalamata olives. These ingredients bring authentic Mediterranean flavors while adding nutritional value and vibrant colors to your dish.
2. Three-Cheese Upgrade
Elevate the cheese profile by combining sharp cheddar with Gruyère and Parmesan. This European cheese trio adds nutty, complex flavors that pair beautifully with the ham and create an ultra-creamy texture reminiscent of French gratins.
3. Spicy Southwestern Twist
Add diced green chiles, pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar, and a pinch of cumin for a Tex-Mex inspired version. Top with fresh cilantro and serve alongside salsa and sour cream for a fusion brunch experience.
4. Fresh Side Salad Pairing
Balance the richness of this casserole with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens and citrus brightness cut through the creamy, cheesy layers perfectly, making it an ideal brunch or dinner combination.
5. Breakfast Hash Browns Addition
Serve alongside crispy hash browns or roasted breakfast potatoes for a complete morning meal. The textural contrast between the creamy casserole and crispy potatoes creates a satisfying, diner-style breakfast experience.
6. Wine and Beverage Pairing
Pair this savory casserole with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Noir for dinner service. For brunch, mimosas, Bloody Marys, or freshly squeezed orange juice complement the dish’s savory-tangy flavor profile beautifully.
7. Individual Ramekin Portions
Divide the mixture into individual ramekins for elegant portion control and faster cooking time (approximately 25-30 minutes). This presentation works wonderfully for meal prep, dinner parties, or special occasions requiring refined plating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
1. Use Day-Old Bread for Best Texture
Fresh bread becomes mushy when soaked in custard, while day-old or stale bread cubes maintain structure and absorb liquid perfectly. If you only have fresh bread, toast the cubes lightly at 300°F for 10 minutes before using them in your Bobby Flay ham and cheese casserole recipe.
2. Choose Quality Ham for Maximum Flavor
Opt for thick-cut deli ham, leftover holiday ham, or honey-baked ham rather than thin sandwich slices. Higher-quality ham contains less water and more flavor, preventing your casserole from becoming watery while adding robust, smoky notes throughout.
3. Don’t Skip the Resting Time
Allowing your casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking isn’t optional it’s essential. During this time, the custard continues setting, the flavors meld together, and the structure stabilizes, making clean slicing possible without a messy, runny presentation.
4. Adjust Milk-to-Egg Ratio for Preferred Texture
For a denser, quiche-like consistency, reduce milk to 1½ cups. For a lighter, fluffier texture, increase to 2½ cups. The standard 2-cup measurement in this Bobby Flay Mediterranean ham and cheese casserole provides balanced creaminess that most people prefer.
5. Prevent Soggy Bottom Syndrome
If using pasta instead of bread, ensure it’s cooked al dente and well-drained. Excess moisture from overcooked pasta will create a soggy base. Additionally, avoid pouring custard too quickly let it gradually soak in for even distribution without pooling.
6. Test Doneness Accurately
Insert a knife into the center of the casserole; it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. The internal temperature should reach 160°F on an instant-read thermometer. The center should jiggle slightly but not appear liquid when gently shaken.
7. Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Options
Assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then refrigerate. Bake directly from cold, adding 10-15 minutes to cooking time. You can also freeze unbaked casseroles for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before baking as directed.
Storage and Reheating Guidance
Store leftover Bobby Flay ham and cheese casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole covered with foil at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Bobby Flay Ham and Cheese Casserole Recipe: A Mediterranean-Inspired Comfort Classic
Ingredients
- Cooked ham diced – 2 cups
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – 2 cups
- Eggs – 4 large
- Milk whole or 2% – 2 cups
- Day-old bread cubes or cooked pasta elbow/mac – 4 cups
- Dijon mustard – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Butter for greasing dish – 1 tablespoon
- Chopped green onions or chives optional – 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the ingredients. Generously grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter, ensuring all corners and sides are coated to prevent sticking.
- Spread the 4 cups of day-old bread cubes or cooked pasta evenly across the bottom of your greased casserole dish. Using stale or day-old bread is key—it absorbs the custard mixture without becoming overly soggy, creating the perfect texture.
- Distribute the 2 cups of diced cooked ham evenly over the bread or pasta base. Sprinkle 1½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the ham layer, reserving the remaining ½ cup for topping. This layering technique ensures every forkful contains balanced flavors.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper until thoroughly combined. The Dijon mustard is Bobby Flay’s signature touch, adding sophisticated depth to this Mediterranean-inspired casserole.
- Slowly pour the egg custard mixture evenly over the entire casserole, ensuring it seeps into all the bread cubes or pasta. Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top, along with optional chopped green onions or chives for a fresh finishing touch.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and the custard has set completely. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.
- Remove the Bobby Flay ham and cheese casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the custard to firm up, making serving and portioning much easier while keeping the layers intact.
Video
Notes
Common Queries and FAQs
Can I make Bobby Flay ham and cheese casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for make-ahead meal planning. Assemble the entire dish the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator while the oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding approximately 10-15 extra minutes to the covered baking time since you’re starting with a cold dish. This make-ahead capability makes the Bobby Flay Mediterranean ham and cheese casserole recipe ideal for holiday brunches and busy weekday mornings.
What’s the best type of bread to use in this casserole?
Day-old white bread, French bread, or sourdough work exceptionally well because they absorb the custard without disintegrating. Avoid soft sandwich breads that become too mushy. Crusty artisan breads add wonderful texture and hold up beautifully during baking. For a heartier version, whole wheat or multigrain bread adds nutritional value and nutty flavor. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes for optimal custard absorption and even cooking throughout the casserole.
Can I substitute the ham with other proteins?
Yes! Cooked bacon, crumbled breakfast sausage, diced rotisserie chicken, or even smoked turkey make excellent substitutions. For a vegetarian version of this Bobby Flay ham and cheese casserole, omit the meat entirely and add sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or caramelized onions for depth. Each protein alternative brings its own unique flavor profile while maintaining the casserole’s satisfying, hearty nature.
Why is my casserole watery or runny?
Excess moisture typically comes from three sources: using fresh bread instead of day-old, not draining ham properly if using canned or packaged varieties, or adding watery vegetables without pre-cooking them. Always pat ham dry with paper towels, ensure bread is slightly stale, and sauté any vegetables beforehand to release moisture. Additionally, letting the casserole rest for the full 10 minutes after baking allows residual heat to finish setting the custard.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Definitely! While sharp cheddar provides classic flavor in this Bobby Flay Mediterranean ham and cheese casserole recipe, Gruyère adds nutty sophistication, mozzarella contributes creaminess, Swiss offers mild sweetness, and pepper jack brings heat. Combine multiple cheeses for complex flavor profiles a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère is particularly delicious. Always shred cheese from blocks rather than using pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly, the edges pull slightly away from the dish, and a knife inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. The internal temperature should register 160°F on an instant-read thermometer. The center should have a slight jiggle when gently shaken but shouldn’t appear liquidy. If the top browns too quickly before the center sets, tent loosely with foil for the remaining baking time.
Can I freeze Bobby Flay ham and cheese casserole?
Yes! For best results, freeze the unbaked assembled casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. You can also freeze baked leftovers in individual portions for quick meals reheat from frozen in the microwave or oven. Freezing may slightly affect texture, making it less custardy and more dense, but flavor remains excellent.
What should I serve with this casserole for a complete meal?
For brunch, pair the Bobby Flay ham and cheese casserole with fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon strips, or roasted asparagus. For dinner, serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans, or crusty bread for soaking up any creamy bits. The casserole’s richness benefits from bright, acidic, or fresh accompaniments that provide textural and flavor contrast.
Can I make this casserole in a different size pan?
Yes, but adjust cooking time accordingly. An 8×8-inch pan creates a deeper casserole requiring 50-60 minutes of total baking time. A 9×9-inch pan needs approximately 45-50 minutes. Individual ramekins or muffin tins reduce cooking time to 25-30 minutes. Always check for doneness using the knife test and internal temperature rather than relying solely on time, as oven variations and pan materials affect cooking speed.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Bobby Flay Mediterranean ham and cheese casserole is meal prep gold. Bake on Sunday, portion into individual containers, and refrigerate for easy grab-and-go breakfasts or lunches throughout the week. Each serving reheats beautifully in 60-90 seconds in the microwave. The flavors actually improve after a day as the ingredients meld together. For best quality, consume refrigerated portions within 4-5 days or freeze individual servings for longer storage.
This Bobby Flay ham and cheese casserole recipe transforms everyday ingredients into an impressive, crowd-pleasing dish that works equally well for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. The Mediterranean-inspired touches like Dijon mustard and optional fresh herbs elevate this comfort food classic into something truly special.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or entertaining weekend guests, this versatile casserole delivers consistent, delicious results. Master this recipe once, and it’ll become your go-to solution for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and meal prep Sundays.
Give this Bobby Flay Mediterranean ham and cheese casserole a try and discover why it’s a recipe worth keeping in your permanent rotation!
You can also follow us on Pinterest, and YouTube for more delicious updates and kitchen inspiration. Your feedback and support mean the world to us!
Delicious
Thanks