If you are on the lookout for a recipe that’s both comforting and perfectly aligned with low-carb lifestyles, the Hearty Keto Ham and Cheese Bake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This dish combines the rich creaminess of cheddar cheese, fluffy eggs, and savory ham with just the right hint of spices and veggies. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying, ideal for any mealtime — whether breakfast, brunch, or dinner. The layers of melted cheese and tender ham make every bite deliciously indulgent but without the carb overload, making it a perfect choice to keep your keto goals on track while enjoying food that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simplicity in your ingredients makes this Hearty Keto Ham and Cheese Bake Recipe incredibly easy to throw together, but each ingredient is essential in building that perfect balance of creamy texture, smoky savor, and vibrant color.
- 2 tbsp red peppers (finely diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and a pop of festive red that livens up the bake.
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream: Provides richness and a creamy, luscious texture that blends all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Brings tang and moisture, making the bake tender and flavorful.
- 2.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Opt for Cabot for best melting; it delivers that gooey, savory depth everyone loves.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky background note that perks up the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp butter (melted): Adds a golden richness and keeps things from sticking in the pan.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Gives a gentle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for balancing the flavors and enhancing the savory notes.
- 2 tbsp green peppers (finely diced): Provides fresh crunch and color contrast against the reds and yellows.
- 2 tbsp onion (finely diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base.
- 14 large eggs (room temperature): The heart of this bake, eggs create structure and a fluffy, custard-like texture.
- 1 tsp dry mustard: A little tang and complexity that complements the cheese beautifully.
- Avocado oil spray: For greasing the pan to ensure the bake releases easily and stays perfect.
- 2 cups diced cooked ham: The star protein, adding smoky, salty, savory punch and satisfying heft.
- Extra sour cream (optional): Dollop on top for an extra creamy touch and more depth of flavor.
How to Make Hearty Keto Ham and Cheese Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Grease Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven and generously spraying your baking dish with avocado oil spray to ensure a smooth release after baking. This small step saves you effort later and helps your bake maintain its perfect shape.
Step 2: Combine Veggies and Ham
Finely dice the red peppers, green peppers, and onions, then place them together in a bowl with the diced ham. These colorful bits add moisture, flavor, and a delightful texture contrast to the bake.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Custard Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 14 eggs, heavy whipping cream, sour cream, dry mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until everything is smoothly combined. This creates your creamy custard base, which will hold all the flavors together and puff up beautifully in the oven.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture, reserving a small handful to sprinkle on top. Stir in the diced ham and vegetable mixture. Then, pour everything carefully into your prepared baking dish and smooth the surface evenly.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. You want a little jiggle in the middle but no wetness. Let it rest for a few minutes to set even further before slicing.
How to Serve Hearty Keto Ham and Cheese Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dollop of sour cream on top instantly elevates each slice, adding creaminess that complements the savory flavors. Freshly chopped chives or parsley also lend a subtle freshness and a cheerful green pop.
Side Dishes
The Hearty Keto Ham and Cheese Bake Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp leafy salads, sautéed low-carb greens like spinach or kale, or steamed asparagus tossed in lemon butter for a light and balanced meal. These sides keep things refreshing while staying in line with keto principles.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming single-serving presentation. You can also turn this bake into a stunning breakfast casserole centerpiece by surrounding it with sliced avocado and cherry tomatoes for vibrant visual contrast and texture variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The bake stays tasty and moist for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick meals throughout the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. For a crispy top, pop the bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes instead. Either way, the cheesy, hearty goodness shines after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?
Absolutely! While cheddar melts beautifully and offers rich flavor in the Hearty Keto Ham and Cheese Bake Recipe, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere for a different twist that still keeps it keto-friendly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Because it stores well in the fridge and can be frozen, this bake is ideal for meal prepping, making your week easier without sacrificing delicious homemade meals.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Low-carb veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach work well. Just be mindful of moisture content to keep the bake from becoming watery.
Do I need to use room temperature eggs?
Room temperature eggs blend more evenly into the custard, helping the bake achieve a fluffy and smooth texture, but if you forget, cold eggs can still work; just whisk well.
How do I know when the bake is done?
The edges should pull away slightly from the pan, and the center should be set but still have a slight jiggle—similar to a custard. A toothpick inserted should come out clean with no wet batter.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Hearty Keto Ham and Cheese Bake Recipe, it’s hard not to fall in love with its creamy, cheesy, and satisfying goodness. It’s an effortless dish that delivers big on flavor and keeps your keto lifestyle deliciously on track. I encourage you to make it soon, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the cozy vibes it brings straight from your oven.
Print
Hearty Keto Ham and Cheese Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Hearty Keto Ham and Cheese Bake is a delicious low-carb casserole perfect for breakfast or brunch. Packed with eggs, cheddar cheese, and diced ham, it’s rich, filling, and bursting with flavor from smoked paprika and dry mustard. The addition of sautéed red and green peppers along with onions adds a delightful freshness and texture, while sour cream and heavy cream enhance the creamy richness. This dish is easy to prepare and bake, making it an ideal keto-friendly meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 tbsp red peppers (finely diced)
- 2 tbsp green peppers (finely diced)
- 2 tbsp onion (finely diced)
Dairy & Eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably Cabot for better melting)
- 14 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tbsp butter (melted)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving; adds creamy richness)
Protein
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
Spices & Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp dry mustard
Others
- Avocado oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with avocado oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add finely diced red peppers, green peppers, and onions. Sauté until vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix Eggs and Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 14 large eggs, heavy whipping cream, sour cream, dry mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, sautéed vegetables, and diced cooked ham into the egg mixture. Stir gently to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the top is set, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bake to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing to help it set further. Serve warm with an optional dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs for best mixing and fluffier texture.
- Cabot cheddar cheese is recommended for its excellent melting quality.
- Feel free to swap ham with cooked bacon or sausage for variety.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture.
- Keep leftovers refrigerated and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
