Ham and Broccoli Breakfast Casserole Recipe: A Healthy, High-Protein Morning Meal for All Ages

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লেখক: স. ম. মাসুদ | প্রকাশের তারিখ: {{26-10-2025}

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🥦🍳 Ham and Broccoli Breakfast Casserole Recipe: A Healthy, High-Protein Morning Meal for All Ages

Looking for a delicious, healthy breakfast idea that’s quick to prepare and packed with nutrition?
This Ham and Broccoli Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead morning meal — rich in protein, full of fiber, and loaded with vitamins from fresh broccoli, eggs, and cheese. Perfect for busy mornings, family brunches, or even holiday gatherings, this casserole brings together the comforting flavors of ham, potatoes, eggs, and melted cheddar in one balanced dish.

🕒 Why You’ll Love This Ham and Broccoli Breakfast Casserole

This recipe is not only easy and affordable, but also incredibly nutritious.
You can prepare everything the night before — just bake it in the morning and serve!

✅ Ready in under an hour
✅ High in protein & calcium
✅ Diabetic-friendly
✅ Gluten-free & nut-free
✅ Ideal for weight management and healthy aging

The combination of crisp hash brown potatoes, tender broccoli, savory ham, and cheesy eggs creates a golden, flavorful casserole that satisfies both your taste buds and your health goals.

🥗 Health Benefits of the Key Ingredients

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore why each ingredient in this casserole supports a healthy diet.

🥦 1. Broccoli – The Superfood for Longevity

Broccoli is one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables you can eat.
It contains vitamins A, C, K, and folate, along with fiber, calcium, and antioxidants that support heart, bone, and immune health.
Eating broccoli regularly may help reduce the risk of cancer, inflammation, and digestive issues.

Tip: Always dry your broccoli before adding it to the casserole — this prevents excess water and keeps your dish perfectly fluffy.

🍳 2. Eggs – A Perfect Protein Powerhouse

Eggs are often misunderstood, but they’re one of the most complete sources of protein available.
Each egg contains high-quality amino acids, choline for brain function, and lutein for eye health.
They also help you stay full longer, making this casserole a great option for weight control.

🧀 3. Cheddar Cheese – Creamy Calcium and Probiotic Boost

Cheese adds flavor, texture, and nutritional benefits.
Reduced-fat cheddar provides calcium, vitamin D, and probiotics that aid digestion and bone strength.
Although it contains some saturated fat, moderate consumption in a balanced meal like this is perfectly healthy.

🥔 4. Potatoes – Energizing and Satisfying

Despite their bad reputation, potatoes are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber.
They help regulate blood pressure and provide long-lasting energy.
When used in moderation, like in this recipe with hash browns, they add texture and substance without unnecessary calories.

🍖 5. Ham – Lean Protein with a Savory Kick

Using lower-sodium cooked ham gives you the meaty flavor you love while keeping salt levels in check.
It’s an excellent source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, supporting red blood cell health and energy production.

🍴 Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare this mouthwatering casserole, gather the following:

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, well-drained)

4 cups thawed frozen hash brown potatoes

6 ounces thinly sliced low-sodium honey ham, chopped

1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese

8 large eggs, lightly beaten

½ cup fat-free or low-fat milk

2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Nonstick cooking spray

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a perfectly baked breakfast casserole.

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

In a medium saucepan, cook broccoli in lightly salted boiling water for 3 minutes.
Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
Pat dry with a paper towel to remove moisture.

Step 2: Build the Base

Coat a 2-quart rectangular baking dish with nonstick spray.
Add hash browns and chives, tossing them together to form the bottom layer.
Next, top evenly with broccoli, chopped ham, and shredded cheese.

Step 3: Mix the Egg Blend

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Pour this mixture over the prepared potato and ham layers.
Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours) to let flavors blend.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake uncovered for 50–55 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set (about 160°F internal temperature).
If the top starts to brown too much, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before cutting.
Serve warm with fresh fruit or salad on the side for a complete meal.

🧊 Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

✔ Prepare Ahead:
You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it.
Remove it from the fridge 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

✔ Store Leftovers:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or in an oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.

✔ Freezer Option:
Freeze cooked portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven or microwave until warm.

🍓 What to Serve with Ham and Broccoli Casserole

This savory breakfast pairs beautifully with refreshing sides:

Fruit salads like strawberry & blackberry mix or pineapple-cucumber salad

Yogurt parfaits topped with nuts and berries

Green smoothies for an extra vitamin boost

Or simply fresh orange juice for a classic breakfast combo

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes! Grate fresh potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture with a towel before adding them. This ensures a crispy base.

Q2: What can I substitute for ham?

Try chicken sausage, turkey bacon, or smoked tofu for a healthier or vegetarian alternative.

Q3: How can I make this dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and vegan cheese substitutes. The casserole will still taste amazing!

Q4: Can I add more veggies?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach all complement the flavors beautifully.

🧠 Pro Tips for a Perfect Breakfast Casserole

⭐ Dry broccoli thoroughly to avoid watery texture.
⭐ Grease your baking dish with nonstick spray for easy cleanup.
⭐ Bake in the middle rack for even heating.
⭐ Check doneness with a knife — if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
⭐ Let it rest after baking to allow the casserole to firm up before slicing.

⚡ Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient Amount

Calories 219 kcal
Protein 15 g
Carbohydrates 20 g
Fat 9 g
Calcium High
Fiber Moderate
Sodium Controlled
Gluten None

This balance of protein, fiber, and healthy carbs makes the casserole ideal for diabetics, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a filling, energy-boosting breakfast.

💬 Reader Reviews

🌟 Terri, USA:
“Made this for Easter breakfast. Cut the recipe in half and baked in a pie plate — it turned out perfect!”

🌟 Sabina R., UK:
“Everyone loved it! I skipped the overnight step, and it was still delicious.”

🌟 Brunz56, Canada:
“I swapped ham for chicken sausage and added red peppers. It’s now our Christmas morning favorite!”

🏁 Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Make-Ahead Breakfast

The Ham and Broccoli Breakfast Casserole is everything you need in a nutritious, hearty breakfast:
simple, flavorful, and packed with protein, calcium, and vitamins.

Whether you’re feeding your family, preparing for a busy week, or planning a holiday brunch — this casserole will make your mornings brighter and your diet healthier.

So next time you crave a wholesome breakfast that’s easy to prepare and absolutely satisfying, remember this recipe.
Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you!

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