Denver Omelet Casserole
This hearty breakfast bake transforms the classic diner favorite into a convenient, family-style dish that combines tender eggs, savory ham, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheese - perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy mornings.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 45 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 275 kcal
9x13-inch Baking Dish
Large Skillet
Mixing Bowl
Whisk
- 10 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk substitute half-and-half for extra richness or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter option
- 1 1/2 cups ham diced (about 8 ounces)
- 1 medium green bell pepper diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper diced
- 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded, divided (try sharp cheddar for more robust flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for enhanced flavor depth
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add the green and red bell peppers and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender but still have a slight crunch.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined and slightly frothy.
Spread half of the sautéed vegetables in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the diced ham evenly over the vegetables.
Top with 1 cup of shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything, then add the remaining vegetables and cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly. The edges should be golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving. Sprinkle with fresh chives before serving.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
For a make-ahead option, prepare the vegetable and ham mixture up to 2 days ahead, and assemble with eggs just before baking.
You can assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
For healthier alternatives: use a mix of whole eggs and egg whites, lean Canadian bacon or turkey ham instead of regular ham, reduced-fat cheese, or add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
Calories: 275kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 270mgSodium: 650mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3g
Keyword Denver Omelet, Western Omelette, Egg Casserole, Ham And Pepper Casserole, Breakfast Bake