Delicious Baked Eggs with ham and cheese Recipe | Easy Brunch Idea

Discover the irresistible charm of baked eggs with ham and cheese (Eggs en cocotte). This classic French dish features eggs baked to perfection with creamy cheese, aromatic herbs, and savory ham.

two white ramekins containing baked eggs with ham and cheese. These are some freshly chopped herbs, whole parsley and toast sticks.

With its delicate balance of flavors, this recipe is a delightful breakfast or brunch option. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, this egg dish will leave you satisfied and longing for more.

Ingredients

Gather eggs, cheese, herbs, and ham for this delicious baked eggs with ham and cheese recipe. It’s a perfect combination of flavors

  1. Eggs: Eggs are the primary ingredient in baked egg dishes. They provide protein and contribute to the creamy texture of the final product. When baked, they firm up and hold the other ingredients together.
  2. Ham: Ham adds a savory and salty flavor to the dish. It also provides a contrasting texture to the eggs, and the combination of eggs and ham is a classic flavor pairing in many dishes.
  3. Cheese: Cheese is often used in baked eggs for its rich, creamy texture and its ability to melt and become gooey when heated. It also adds a delicious, cheesy flavor that pairs well with eggs and other ingredients.
  4. Butter: Butter is often used to grease the baking dish and to add a rich, buttery flavor to the dish. It can also be drizzled on top to help the eggs and other ingredients brown and develop a slightly crispy exterior.
  5. Herbs: Herbs, such as chives, parsley, thyme, or basil, are used to add freshness and a burst of flavor to the dish. They provide a pleasant contrast to the richness of the eggs, ham, cheese, and butter, enhancing the overall taste.
  6. Spices: Spices like salt, pepper, paprika, or cayenne pepper can be used to season the dish. They add depth of flavor and enhance the overall taste, making the baked eggs more flavorful and appealing.
Three white ceramic ramekins containing baked eggs with ham and cheese. These are some freshly chopped herbs, whole parsley and toast sticks.

How to make Baked Eggs with Ham and Cheese

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful dish of baked eggs en cocotte. It’s easier than you think!

  • Preheat oven to 350°.
  • Coat each of 6 (8-oz) ramekins or custard cups with 1/2 teaspoon butter.
  • Break 1 egg into each prepared ramekin.
  • Sprinkle eggs evenly with pepper and salt; spoon 1 teaspoon cream over each egg.
  • Place ramekins in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish; add hot water to the pan.
  • ake at 350° for 25 minutes or until eggs are set.
Three white ramekins containing baked eggs with ham and cheese. These are some freshly chopped herbs, whole parsley and toast sticks.

Recipe tips and kitchen tricks

  1. Use ramekins or oven-safe dishes to bake individual portions for an elegant presentation.
  2. Customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or bacon.
  3. Experiment with different types of cheese to enhance the flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

  1. Vegetarian option: Replace the ham with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
  2. Mediterranean twist: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve with toasted bread or buttery croissants for a complete meal.
  2. Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing lunch option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Can I make baked eggs en cocotte ahead of time? Yes! Prep the dish up to the point of baking and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
  • Q: Can I make this recipe without using ham? Absolutely! Feel free to omit the ham or substitute it with your preferred protein or vegetables.

Brunch Wine & Cocktail Pairings

  1. Wine: Pair with a light-bodied white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
  2. Cocktail: Complement the flavors with a refreshing mimosa or a sparkling Bellini.
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A pin image of two white ramekins containing baked eggs with ham and cheese. These are some freshly chopped herbs, whole parsley and toast sticks.
Baked Eggs with Ham and Cheese 5 cva

baked eggs with ham and cheese

Ronda Eagle | Kitchen Dreaming
Discover the irresistible charm of baked eggs en cocotte. This classic French dish features eggs baked to perfection with creamy cheese, aromatic herbs, and savory ham.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine French
Servings 6 servings
Calories 84 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon butter or cooking spray
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons milk or cream
  • Fresh herbs , chopped fine (optional)
  • Cheese (optional)
  • Canadian ham or bacon (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°.
  • Coat each of 6 (8-oz) ramekins or custard cups with 1/2 teaspoon butter. Break 1 egg into each prepared ramekin. Sprinkle eggs evenly with pepper and salt; spoon 1 teaspoon cream over each egg. Place ramekins in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish; add hot water to the pan. Bake at 350° for 25 minutes or until eggs are set.

Notes

Note: To easily make a bain marie, place the ramekins on a cookie sheet or baking pan already inside the oven. Boil some water on the stove either in a kettle or a saucepan [paid link]. Add the boiling water to the pan already in the oven. This will prevent any spilling accidents and accidental burns. Then once the eggs are done you will be able to remove them from the pan and finally the tray once it cools. Also note: if you do not have ramekins, you may use any oven-proof baking dish. Here, I demonstrated the use of a pint size jelly jar, a clear glass bowl, a small ceramic bowl and a tiny metal mixing bowl [paid link]. All the bowls took the same cooking time and temperature as the ramekin described in the recipe and were evenly cooked using the bain marie.

Nutrition

Serving: 1dishCalories: 84kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 6gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 169mgSodium: 372mgPotassium: 67mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 296IUVitamin D: 1µgVitamin E: 1mgVitamin K: 1µgCalcium: 30mgFolate: 21µgIron: 1mgZinc: 1mg
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