Ham and Cheese Mustard Bread Recipe

Introduction

Indulging in a savory, comforting bread that combines the richness of ham, the gooeyness of cheese, and the subtle tang of mustard is a culinary experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. The Ham’n Cheese Supper Bread, as featured on Love With Recipes, embodies the essence of home-cooked comfort food. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to serve for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will keep everyone coming back for more. The fluffy, golden crust encases a savory mixture of diced ham and melted cheese, enhanced by the aromatic touch of mustard, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors that evoke nostalgia and warmth.

Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Needed Equipment

• 10-inch pie plate or similar baking dish
• Mixing bowls (preferably large)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula or mixing spoon
• Grater (for cheese)
• Pastry brush or spoon (for drizzling butter)
• Oven mitts and cooling rack
• Optional: Food processor (if chopping ingredients finely)

Tags

• Comfort Food
• Cheesy Breads
• Ham Recipes
• Brunch Ideas
• Easy Recipes
• Family Dinner

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 10 generous slices, suitable for serving a family of four to six, depending on appetites. It can be scaled up or down easily for larger gatherings or smaller meals.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate — This recipe involves basic baking skills and some simple chopping, but it’s straightforward enough for novice cooks with a little patience and attention to detail.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

Contains animal products; not suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets. Can be modified for gluten-free diets by substituting gluten-free baking mixes and cheese alternatives, but this may alter texture and flavor.

Course

Main Course / Snack / Brunch

Cuisine

American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

Ingredient List

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven and prepare baking dish

Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the bread to bake evenly, developing a golden crust while remaining fluffy inside. While the oven heats, prepare your pie plate by lightly greasing it with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This step is essential to prevent the bread from sticking and ensures easy removal once baked. For best results, use a 10-inch pie plate or a similarly sized baking dish that provides enough space for the batter to rise slightly and cook uniformly.

Step 2: Prepare the ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting. Dice the ham into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the bread. If you’re using fresh onions or other vegetables, chop them finely and sauté lightly if desired for extra flavor, although this recipe doesn’t call for that. Grate the cheese using a box grater or a food processor fitted with a shredding disc. Measure out the milk, eggs, mustard, and Bisquick carefully to maintain consistency.

Step 3: Mix the batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Bisquick, diced ham, eggs, milk, and prepared mustard. Use a sturdy spatula or a wooden spoon to stir everything together until the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. The mixture should be slightly thick but still pourable. Once combined, fold in about 3/4 of the shredded cheese, ensuring even distribution. This cheese will melt into the batter, adding richness and gooeyness to each slice.

Step 4: Transfer mixture to baking dish

Pour the batter into the prepared pie plate, spreading it evenly with the spatula or the back of a spoon. Smooth the surface to ensure consistent baking. This step helps the bread rise uniformly and creates an appealing presentation.

Step 5: Add cheese and sesame seeds topping

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the batter. This creates a cheesy crust that melts beautifully during baking. Follow with a light sprinkle of sesame seeds, which add a subtle nutty flavor and a pleasing crunch. If you prefer a different topping, such as chopped herbs or paprika, feel free to customize.

Step 6: Drizzle with melted butter

Pour or brush the melted butter evenly over the cheese layer. The butter enhances browning, adds richness, and contributes to a tender crust. Use a pastry brush or simply pour gently from a spoon, ensuring an even coating.

Step 7: Bake to perfection

Place the prepared dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly crispy. The bread will puff slightly as it bakes, and the cheese will be bubbly and melted.

Step 8: Cool and serve

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes on a cooling rack. This brief resting period helps the bread set and makes slicing easier. Serve warm, cut into wedges or squares, and enjoy immediately for the best gooey, cheesy experience. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the microwave or oven.

Preparation Tips

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh ham and good cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
• Customize fillings: Feel free to add diced vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor complexity.
• Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as Swiss, Gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix to accommodate dietary needs.
• Enhance flavor: Add herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or thyme into the batter for freshness.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Ensure even distribution: Mix the ham and cheese thoroughly so every bite has flavor.
• Adjust cheese levels: For a cheesier result, increase the cheese or add cheese on top before baking.
• Control moisture: If you prefer a drier bread, reduce the milk slightly; for more moistness, add an extra splash.
• Serving temperature: This bread is best served warm, but can be enjoyed at room temperature or cold.
• Make ahead: Prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate overnight; bake fresh in the morning or when needed.

Add-ons and Variations

• Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, thyme)
• Sliced jalapeños or pickled peppers for heat
• Crumbled cooked bacon for extra savoriness
• Use different cheeses for varied flavors, such as pepper jack or Gruyère
• Include roasted garlic or caramelized onions for depth

Side Dishes

• Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
• Hearty vegetable soup or chowder
• Steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables
• Fresh fruit platter or fruit salad
• Yogurt or sour cream dip for added creaminess

Improvements

• Incorporate whole wheat flour into the Bisquick for added fiber
• Use low-fat cheese and milk for a lighter version
• Add a layer of tomato slices or cooked spinach for freshness
• Experiment with different bread bases, like crescent roll dough or puff pastry

Save and Store

To store leftovers, allow the bread to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds or warm the entire bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped and reheat directly from frozen.

FAQ

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely. Replace Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix or flour blend and ensure your cheese and ham are gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but with proper substitutions, it remains delicious.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can enhance flavor and nutritional value. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

Is it suitable for freezing?

Yes. Once cooled, slice the bread and store in airtight freezer bags. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven for quick meals later.

Conclusion

The Ham’n Cheese Supper Bread is a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that combines the comforting flavors of ham, cheese, and mustard into a fluffy, golden loaf. Its simplicity and adaptability make it an excellent choice for any meal or occasion, from casual family dinners to festive brunches. When prepared with quality ingredients and a touch of creativity, it transforms into a hearty, satisfying dish that embodies the best of home cooking. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a fresh salad or soup, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Remember to share it with loved ones, and savor each delicious bite — a true testament to the joy of good food and good company.

References

• Love With Recipes. “Ham’n Cheese Supper Bread.” https://lovewithrecipes.com
• Cooks Illustrated. “The Art of Baking Perfect Bread.” 2020.