The moment the sun rises and I hear that satisfying sizzle, I can’t help but rush to the kitchen, excitement bubbling within me. Today, I’m sharing a beloved favorite: Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast casserole, where cheesy, creamy layers embrace savory bites of ham and fresh veggies, all topped off with crispy tater tots.
After a fun morning spent with family, we usually gather around the table to savor this comforting meal, which manages to impress both friends and kids alike. The blend of flavors—sharp cheddar, garlicky undertones, and a hint of fragrant leeks—makes each bite a cozy embrace. This isn’t just about filling bellies; it’s about creating unforgettable moments. With easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll find that this hotdish doesn’t just taste amazing, it becomes a cherished part of your breakfast repertoire. Let’s dive in and whip up this satisfying treat together!
Why will you love Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish?
Comforting Delight: This dish is perfect for cozy mornings, bringing a sense of warmth to your breakfast table.
Cheesy Goodness: Seriously, who can resist the melty, sharp cheddar mingling with creamy textures?
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can nail this recipe effortlessly!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: This hotdish impresses both kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
Customization Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or leftover meats for a personalized touch!
Time-Saving Dish: Bake it all in one go and enjoy more time with family rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish Ingredients
For the Filling
- Medium Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and flavor; can substitute with shallots or a sweeter onion variety.
- Leeks (3 medium) – Provide a mild, aromatic flavor; use two cups of strips from the white and light green parts.
- Ham Steak (12 ounces) or Diced Cooked Ham (2 1/2 cups) – Main protein source, adds savory richness; leftover holiday ham can be substituted.
- Large Clove Garlic – Enhances flavor; minced garlic can be replaced with garlic powder if necessary.
- Asparagus (1/2 bunch, approx. 8 ounces) – Adds fresh vegetable texture; substitute with seasonal veggies like spinach or bell peppers.
- Frozen Peas (1 cup) – Provides sweetness and color; fresh peas or other frozen veggies can be used.
For the Custard
- Large Eggs (8) – Forms the custard base; flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative (adjustment required for consistency).
- Heavy Cream (1 1/2 cups) – Contributes to the richness of the custard; coconut cream or a blend of milk and butter serves as a lighter alternative.
- Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon) – Adds depth of flavor; can be omitted or replaced with yellow mustard.
- Cream Cheese (4 ounces) – Adds creamy texture; softened goat cheese can be a flavorful substitute.
For the Topping
- Frozen Potato Tots (22 to 28 ounces) – Creates a crispy topping; homemade hash browns can be used instead.
- Sharp White Cheddar Cheese (6 to 7 ounces) – Melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor; can be replaced with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda.
Seasoning & Garnish
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons, divided) – Used for cooking and adds richness; can substitute with any cooking oil.
- Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential seasonings for flavoring; adjust to taste.
- Chopped Fresh Dill or Chives (2 tablespoons) – Fresh herbs for garnish and flavor; adjust based on availability.
How to Make Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with oil or non-stick spray. This step helps the hotdish to slide out effortlessly when it’s done baking.
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Combine chopped onion and leeks in a medium bowl, ensuring they are mixed thoroughly. Their sweet and mild flavors will form the aromatic base of your filling.
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Dice the ham and mince the garlic, then sauté them together in a pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. This enhances the flavors!
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Add the onion and leeks to the pan, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, cooking until they are translucent, around 3-5 minutes. The mixture will smell divine!
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Stir in the diced asparagus and minced garlic, sautéing until the asparagus is tender, about 3 minutes, then mix in the frozen peas. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before the next step.
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Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and any remaining salt and pepper in a separate bowl until smooth. Pour this rich custard over the ham and vegetable mixture in your baking dish.
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Scatter cream cheese pieces evenly over the top, and sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese generously. This creamy layer is going to meld deliciously into the hotdish.
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Arrange the frozen tater tots neatly on top of everything, then season lightly with salt and pepper. This crispy topping will give you that desired crunch!
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Bake for 40 to 55 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and the egg mixture has set. Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh dill or chives for an added touch of flavor.
Optional: Serve with a light side salad to balance out the richness of the hotdish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish
Feel free to elevate your hotdish experience by customizing these delightful variations to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Vegetable Swap: Use your favorite seasonal vegetables! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can bring fresh brightness to the dish.
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Cheesy Alternatives: Want a twist? Substitute sharp white cheddar with pepper jack for a kick or use creamy gouda for a smoother flavor.
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Vegan Option: For a plant-based twist, swap the eggs with flax eggs and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You’ll still achieve a luscious custard!
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Protein Variations: Got leftovers? Jazz up the filling by using cooked chicken or turkey instead of ham for a different yet equally comforting twist.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sautéed veggies to give your hotdish a fiery zing!
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Herb Fiesta: Switch up the herb garnish! Fresh parsley or basil can bring a new dimension, while thyme adds an aromatic flair.
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Crispy Topping: Instead of tater tots, try homemade hash browns or even panko breadcrumbs for a different kind of crunchy goodness.
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Creamy Dream: Blend in some ricotta cheese with the cream cheese for an ultra-creamy filling that kids will absolutely love!
These variations allow you to create the perfect hotdish tailored to your family’s preferences while keeping that comforting vibe alive!
What to Serve with Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish?
This dish is not just a breakfast feast; it’s an experience waiting to happen on your table.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds refreshing sweetness that balances the dish’s richness. Try strawberries, melons, and citrus for a burst of flavor.
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Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette complement the hearty nature of the hotdish, offering a refreshing crunch that contrasts with the creamy layers.
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Crispy Bacon or Sausages: These savory breakfast staples provide an extra punch of flavor and heartiness that pairs perfectly with the hammy goodness of the hotdish.
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Toast with Jam: A sweet and buttery toast can be a delightful side, providing a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of your meal.
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Mimosas or Fresh Orange Juice: Brighten the morning with sparkling mimosas or a cold glass of fresh orange juice, perfectly pairing with every bite of this comforting dish.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful contrast, adding creamy and crunchy textures to your breakfast spread.
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Cheesy Grits: For a Southern twist, serving creamy, cheesy grits adds an extra rich layer to the meal, making it truly unforgettable.
Expert Tips for Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish
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Vegetable Texture: Ensure the vegetables are cooked but still firm before adding to maintain a nice texture in your dish.
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Cooling Time: Let the hotdish cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the custard set, making it easier to slice and serve.
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Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends for the filling; combining sharp cheddar with gouda adds a delightful twist to Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish.
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Customizing Flavors: Adding spices like paprika or colorful bell peppers can elevate the flavors and give a vibrant touch to your dish.
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Baking Dish Size: Use a dish that accommodates your ingredients without crowding; this helps achieve that golden, crunchy top layer every time!
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Leftover Magic: Transform this hotdish into a hearty lunch or dinner by incorporating whatever leftover meats you have, giving it fresh life!
Storage Tips for Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish
Fridge: Store leftover hotdish in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy its delicious flavors whenever the craving strikes!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the hotdish in individual portions. Wrap each serving tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through—around 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions on medium until hot.
Serving Freshness: For best texture, it’s ideal to consume within the first few days. However, Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish can still taste wonderful even after freezing!
Make Ahead Options
You can easily make Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish ahead of time, saving those precious moments during busy mornings! Prepare the filling (sautéed veggies and ham) and custard (eggs, cream, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the filling with the custard in a greased baking dish, add the cream cheese and cheese, top with frozen tater tots, and bake for 40 to 55 minutes until golden brown. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, hearty breakfast with minimal effort on those hectic mornings!
Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish Recipe FAQs
What type of ham is best for this dish?
Absolutely! I recommend using a good-quality ham steak (12 ounces) or about 2 1/2 cups of diced cooked ham. Leftover holiday ham works wonderfully too, adding extra flavor and richness to the dish!
How should I store leftovers of the hotdish?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing; this helps retain the dish’s flavors. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven for a quick reheat!
Can I freeze Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish?
Yes! For freezing, I suggest cutting the hotdish into individual portions for easy reheating later. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag labeled with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor! When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
What if my hotdish isn’t setting properly?
Ah, this can happen sometimes! If it seems too runny, it could be due to undercooked or excess moisture in the vegetables. Be sure to cook the veggies just until tender and avoid using watery ones. If you’re removing it from the oven and it’s still soupy, you can pop it back in for an additional 5-10 minutes to firm up the custard.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Great question! You can make this hotdish more inclusive by swapping out the heavy cream for a dairy-free option, like coconut cream, and replacing eggs with flax eggs for a vegan alternative. If you’re catering to specific allergies, make sure to double-check the cheese types and substitute where necessary! Adjusting the ingredients allows everyone to enjoy Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish together.
Molly Yeh’s Hammy Breakfast Hotdish: Cozy Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with oil or non-stick spray.
- Combine chopped onion and leeks in a medium bowl, ensuring they are mixed thoroughly.
- Dice the ham and mince the garlic, then sauté them together in a pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the onion and leeks to the pan, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, cooking until they are translucent, around 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced asparagus and minced garlic, sautéing until the asparagus is tender, about 3 minutes, then mix in the frozen peas.
- Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and any remaining salt and pepper in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Pour this rich custard over the ham and vegetable mixture in your baking dish.
- Scatter cream cheese pieces evenly over the top, and sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese generously.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots neatly on top of everything, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 40 to 55 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and the egg mixture has set. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh dill or chives for an added touch of flavor.
