Crispy oven bread with ham and Cheddar cheese

Crispy Baked Bread with Ham and Cheddar Cheese

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 2 hours
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total: 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Discover a delicious and comforting recipe that combines the rich flavors of Cheddar cheese with the finesse of ham in a crispy baked bread. This dish is perfect for a weekend brunch, a light dinner, or even a gathering with friends. The history of this dish spans decades, with roots in comfort food, where simple ingredients transform into true culinary delights.

Ingredients:

- Butter, for greasing
- 250 g bread (preferably a rustic bread, such as a baguette or homemade bread), sliced
- 90 g ham, sliced (you can also use chicken or turkey breast if you prefer)
- 150 g Cheddar cheese, grated
- 3 large eggs
- 250 ml milk
- 250 ml cream (use full-fat cream for a more intense flavor)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional, for a touch of flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the dish
Start by greasing a heatproof dish with butter. This step is essential to prevent sticking and to give your dish a subtle buttery flavor. You can use a paper towel or a pastry brush to cover the entire surface well.

2. Arranging the slices of bread
Place the slices of bread in the dish, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer. If you are using taller bread, you can cut the slices in half to better fit the size of the dish.

3. Adding the ingredients
Sprinkle the slices of ham between the slices of bread, followed by the grated Cheddar cheese. The flavors will combine perfectly during baking, offering a rich and consistent taste.

4. Preparing the egg mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk, cream, and mustard. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined. The mustard adds a subtle and interesting flavor but can be omitted if you prefer a simpler taste.

5. Assembling the dish
Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring that each piece of bread is well soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or ideally overnight). This step allows the bread to absorb all the flavors and become soft and moist inside.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 200°C. After the resting time has expired, remove the wrap and place the dish in the oven. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until the surface is nicely browned and the egg filling has set. If you notice it browning too quickly, you can cover the dish with aluminum foil in the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

7. Serving
Once the dish is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a pleasant contrast.

Practical tips:

- Types of bread: Use a denser bread, such as rye bread or ciabatta, for an extra texture and flavor.
- Variations: You can add vegetables such as peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the filling mixture to make it healthier and more varied. You can also substitute Cheddar cheese with goat cheese or mozzarella for a different taste.
- Enhancing flavors: Add spices like pepper, garlic powder, or fresh herbs (basil, oregano) to the egg mixture for an extra boost of flavor.

Nutritional information:

This recipe contains approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. It is rich in protein due to the eggs and ham, while Cheddar cheese provides calcium and healthy fats. You can make a healthier version by using skim milk, light cream, and reducing the amount of cheese.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use old bread? Yes, older bread is ideal for this recipe as it absorbs the moist mixture better.
- What other sides can I serve? A simple green salad, grilled vegetables, or even sauces like ketchup or chili sauce can perfectly complement this dish.
- Can it be prepared in advance? Absolutely! The dish can be assembled a day ahead and left in the fridge, just pop it in the oven before serving.

This crispy baked bread with ham and Cheddar cheese recipe is not just a delicious dish but also an excellent way to gather family and friends around the table. The rich taste, crispy texture, and irresistible aroma will turn any meal into a memorable experience. By experimenting with ingredients and adding your personal touches, you can create a unique recipe that reflects your culinary style. Enjoy!