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Cheesy Ham and Asparagus Bake

This asparagus and ham casserole is one you have to try, even if you think you don't like asparagus. It is a wonderfully easy quiche-like casserole to throw together for breakfast. This can be prepared the night before, covered, and put in the refrigerator overnight. Just be sure to allow extra cook time.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine nordic
Servings 12 people
Calories 2700.9 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish Essential for baking the casserole evenly.
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl For whisking the egg and milk mixture.
  • 1 Whisk To ensure a smooth, well-incorporated egg base.
  • 1 Chef's knife For efficient chopping of ham, onion, and bell pepper.
  • 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons For accurate ingredient portions.

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 1 ½ cups chopped cooked ham
  • 1 10 ounce package frozen cut asparagus, thawed
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • ¼ cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 8 eggs
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¾ teaspoon dried tarragon
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Combine ham, asparagus, onion, and bell pepper in the prepared baking dish. Beat eggs, milk, flour, Parmesan, tarragon, salt, and pepper together in a large bowl; pour over ham mixture.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Sprinkle top with Cheddar cheese; continue baking until cheese melted, 3 to 5 minutes. Let stand 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a superior texture and vibrant color, consider using fresh, blanched asparagus instead of frozen when in season. To elevate the flavor profile, lightly sauté the chopped onion and red bell pepper before adding them to the baking dish; this mellows their sharpness and brings out their sweetness. Be mindful not to overbake; the 'knife inserted comes out clean' test is crucial, as overcooking will yield a rubbery texture. For an extra layer of complexity, a small pinch of freshly grated nutmeg in the egg mixture complements the ham beautifully. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley for enhanced presentation and a touch of herbaceous freshness.