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Blanching broccoli is a crucial step in preparing your cheesy ham and broccoli breakfast bake. This process involves briefly boiling the broccoli florets and then shocking them in ice water to halt the cooking process. Not only does blanching maintain the vibrant green color of the broccoli, but it also enhances its texture, making it tender yet crisp.

Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Breakfast Bake

Kickstart your day with the Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Breakfast Bake, a delicious blend of savory ham, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches, this dish is not only satisfying but also nutritious. Packed with protein and essential vitamins, it's ideal for meal prep or family gatherings. Enjoy the comforting textures and vibrant flavors, and make this breakfast bake a staple in your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup diced cooked ham

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1 cup milk

6 large eggs

1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)

½ cup chopped green onions

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 slices of bread (cubed, preferably day-old)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray.

    Prepare the Broccoli: Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, chop them into smaller pieces.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are slightly softened. Add the blanched broccoli, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

        Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure it’s well combined.

          Layer the Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, spread the cubed bread evenly on the bottom. Next, layer the broccoli and bell pepper mixture over the bread. Add the diced ham and pour the egg mixture over everything, ensuring even distribution.

            Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you like it extra cheesy, add a bit more cheese to your liking.

              Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy warm!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 6-8