This Bobby Flay-style Ham and Cheese Casserole is everything you want in a comforting bake—cheesy, creamy, and packed with savory ham. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a hearty dinner, this casserole makes the most of leftover ham and simple ingredients to create a dish that’s warm, filling, and family-friendly.

What is Bobby Flay’s Ham and Cheese Casserole?

Bobby Flay’s take on a ham and cheese casserole is a rich, baked dish made with layers of tender pasta or potatoes, savory diced ham, sharp cheese, and a smooth béchamel or creamy egg mixture. It’s golden on top, moist in the center, and hits the perfect balance of creamy and savory.

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Why You Love This Recipe

Perfect use for leftover ham – Great post-holiday or weeknight meal
Super cheesy and satisfying – Melts beautifully for comfort in every bite
Versatile for any meal – Serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner
Freezer-friendly and make-ahead – Ideal for meal prep or gatherings
Customizable ingredients – Use your favorite cheese, bread, or add-ins
Kid and crowd approved – A familiar flavor that everyone enjoys

Ingredients Needed to Make Bobby Flay’s Ham and Cheese Casserole

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 to Prepare Bobby Flay Ham and Cheese Casserole

Preheat your oven – Set to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish.
Prepare the base – Place bread cubes or cooked pasta in the bottom of the dish.
Add ham and cheese – Sprinkle diced ham and most of the cheese over the base layer.
Make the custard – Whisk eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper together in a bowl.
Pour and top – Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole and top with remaining cheese.
Bake the casserole – Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Cool slightly before serving – Let rest 5–10 minutes for easy slicing.

What Goes Well With Bobby Flay’s Ham and Cheese Casserole

Pairs perfectly with a side salad – Adds freshness and crunch
Great with roasted asparagus or green beans – Balances the richness
Serve with fresh fruit or melon – Brightens up a brunch plate
Top with a fried egg for breakfast – Makes it even more indulgent
Offer with spicy tomato chutney or mustard – Adds tang and depth
Crispy hash browns or toast on the side – For extra texture and heartiness

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Bobby Flay Ham and Cheese Casserole

Use stale bread for better absorption – Avoids soggy texture
Try Gruyère or Swiss for a flavor upgrade – Melts beautifully with deeper taste
Add vegetables for balance – Spinach, mushrooms, or peppers work well
Don’t overbake – Just until the center is set and edges are golden
Let it sit before slicing – Helps firm up for clean servings
Sprinkle fresh herbs before serving – Adds brightness and color

Variations of Bobby Flay’s Ham and Cheese Casserole

Potato-based casserole – Replace bread with thinly sliced cooked potatoes
Low-carb version – Use cauliflower or zucchini instead of bread/pasta
Spicy twist – Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce
Extra creamy version – Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or heavy cream
Vegetarian version – Skip ham and load up on sautéed veggies
French-inspired version – Use béchamel and Gruyère for a Croque Monsieur-style bake

Storage Guidelines for Bobby Flay Ham and Cheese Casserole

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze for long-term storage – Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months
Label with date and contents – Makes reheating and meal planning easier
Portion before freezing – Ideal for single servings or lunches

Reheating Tips for Bobby Flay’s Ham and Cheese Casserole

Oven method for best texture – Cover with foil and heat at 350°F for 15–20 minutes
Microwave for quick reheating – Heat in 1-minute intervals until warm throughout
Add a splash of milk if dry – Helps restore moisture
Reheat from frozen – Thaw overnight or bake straight from frozen for 45–50 minutes

Nutritional Value (per Serving)

Calories: 410 kcal
Protein: 22 g
Fat: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 780 mg

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in ham and cheese casserole?

Yes, you can use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for extra flavor and creaminess.

Can I prepare Bobby Flay’s ham and cheese casserole the night before?

Absolutely. Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for best texture and taste.

What’s the best bread to use for this casserole?

Day-old French bread, sourdough, or sandwich bread works well because it absorbs the custard without turning mushy.

Can I freeze leftover ham and cheese casserole?

Yes, let it cool completely, then freeze in portions or whole. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.

Final Words

Bobby Flay’s Ham and Cheese Casserole is a cozy classic that never disappoints. With its golden cheesy crust, tender base, and savory ham, this recipe is ideal for feeding a crowd, using up leftovers, or enjoying a comfort-food night. You’ll want to make this one again and again.