This Scrambled Egg Casserole by Mrs. Mapp is a cherished breakfast classic that blends creamy scrambled eggs with ham, mushrooms, and a rich homemade cheese sauce. Layered with buttery breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, it’s the kind of comforting dish that turns any morning into a family gathering. The recipe captures the essence of hearty American casseroles from mid-century kitchens, simple, filling, and designed for sharing. Whether served at brunch, a church potluck, or a cozy weekend breakfast, this casserole brings together savory flavors and nostalgic warmth in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Casserole:
- 1 cup ham (cubed )
- 3 tbsp butter (or margarine, melted)
- ¼ cup green onion (chopped )
- 12 eggs
- 4 oz mushrooms (drained)
- ¼ cup Oleo (melted, for breadcrumbs)
- 2 ½ cups soft breadcrumbs
- ⅛ tsp paprika
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 ½ tbsp plain flour
- 2 cups milk
- ½ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp pepper
- 1 cup cheese (shredded, cheddar recommended)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Sauté cubed ham and chopped green onion in 3 tbsp melted oleo over medium heat.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
- Add the eggs to the pan and cook over medium heat until set.
Step 3: Add Mushrooms and Cheese Sauce
- Stir in the drained mushrooms and prepared cheese sauce.
Step 4: Prepare the Pan
- Grease a 13x9x2-inch pan. Combine ¼ cup melted oleo with 2½ cups soft breadcrumbs. Spread half the crumbs in the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the egg mixture over the breadcrumb base. Top with remaining crumbs and sprinkle lightly with paprika.
Step 6: Chill Overnight
- Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Step 7: Bake
- Uncover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Step 8: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Melt butter in a heavy saucepan over low heat. Blend in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually add milk, cooking and stirring over medium heat until thickened. Add salt, pepper, and cheese. Stir until smooth.
Tips
- Use breakfast sausage or bacon instead of ham for a different flavor.
- Substitute sautéed bell peppers or spinach for mushrooms if preferred.
- For a milder onion flavor, sauté the green onions longer or reduce the amount.
- Add shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or Swiss directly to the egg mixture for extra cheesiness.
- Use fresh mushrooms instead of canned; just sauté before adding.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half milk substitute or reduced-fat cheese.
- Assemble up to 24 hours ahead for easy holiday or brunch hosting.
- Try topping with buttered cornflakes or crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs.
- Serve with fruit salad, toast, or breakfast potatoes for a complete meal.
Nutrition
Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 22gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 340mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 220mgIron: 2mg
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