Cheesy Tomato and Ham Layer Bake
This Cheesy Tomato and Ham Layer Bake is a deliciously comforting dish, perfect for a cozy supper or a hearty addition to your next buffet dinner or potluck gathering. Juicy layers of fresh, sliced tomatoes are interspersed with savory cooked ham and bound together with a creamy mayonnaise and fresh parsley mix, all topped with a golden, crispy layer of cheddar cheese and buttery breadcrumbs. Serve this delightful bake alongside a crisp green salad and a refreshing glass of Pinot Grigio for a meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
large tomatoes
8 (thinly sliced)
cooked ham
2 cups (chopped)
mayonnaise
4 tablespoons (none)
fresh parsley
2 tablespoons (chopped)
fresh white breadcrumbs
6 cups (none)
cheddar cheese
3 cups (shredded)
butter
4 tablespoons (melted)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped ham, mayonnaise, and freshly chopped parsley until well mixed.
3
In another bowl, combine the fresh white breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, and melted butter, mixing until the breadcrumbs are thoroughly coated.
4
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer 1/3 of the sliced tomatoes evenly on the bottom of the dish.
5
Spread 1/3 of the ham mixture over the tomatoes, followed by 1/3 of the breadcrumb and cheese mixture.
6
Repeat the layering process two more times, finishing with the last of the breadcrumb mixture on top.
7
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling.
8
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cheesy Tomato and Ham Layer Bake?
It is a comforting casserole featuring layers of fresh tomatoes, cooked ham, a creamy mayonnaise-parsley mixture, and a crispy cheddar cheese and breadcrumb topping.
How many tomatoes do I need for this recipe?
You will need 8 large tomatoes, which should be thinly sliced for layering.
What type of ham is used in this dish?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of cooked ham that has been chopped.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A 9x13-inch baking dish is the best size for this recipe.
How long does the bake need to stay in the oven?
The dish should be baked for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling.
How many layers are in this bake?
The recipe involves three repeating layers of tomatoes, the ham mixture, and the breadcrumb-cheese mixture.
What kind of cheese is best for the topping?
The recipe specifically calls for 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Can I use dried breadcrumbs instead of fresh?
While the recipe specifies 6 cups of fresh white breadcrumbs for the best texture, you can use dried breadcrumbs, though the volume may need adjusting.
What is the purpose of the mayonnaise in this recipe?
Mayonnaise is mixed with chopped ham and parsley to bind the middle layers and add creaminess.
Does the ham need to be pre-cooked?
Yes, the recipe requires cooked ham that is then chopped for the assembly.
Is there a specific wine pairing suggested?
Yes, serving this bake with a refreshing glass of Pinot Grigio is highly recommended.
Why should the dish sit for 10 minutes after baking?
Letting the bake sit for 10 minutes allows the layers to set, providing the best texture for serving.
What should I serve as a side dish?
A crisp green salad is the perfect accompaniment to this hearty casserole.
How do I prepare the breadcrumb topping?
Mix the fresh white breadcrumbs with shredded cheddar cheese and melted butter until the crumbs are thoroughly coated.
Is this recipe suitable for a potluck?
Absolutely, it is described as a hearty addition to buffet dinners or potluck gatherings.
Can I substitute the fresh parsley?
While fresh parsley provides the best flavor, you could use dried parsley, though you should use a smaller amount.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: tomatoes, ham, mayonnaise, parsley, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and butter.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, make sure to grease the 9x13-inch baking dish before you begin layering the ingredients.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Cheddar is recommended for its melting properties and flavor, but you could try other meltable cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère.
What is the first step in the assembly?
The first step is to layer 1/3 of the sliced tomatoes evenly on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
Can this be made vegetarian?
You could omit the ham or replace it with a meat-free alternative, though the original recipe is centered around the ham and tomato combination.
How many tablespoons of mayonnaise are required?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise.
Is the butter melted or softened?
The 4 tablespoons of butter should be melted before mixing with the breadcrumbs and cheese.
What makes the topping crispy?
The combination of fresh breadcrumbs, melted butter, and shredded cheddar cheese creates a golden, crispy crust.
Can I add other herbs?
While the recipe uses parsley, you could experiment with chives or thyme for different flavor profiles.
Is this a good recipe for a weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is described as a cozy supper and a quick supper option for families.
How do I know when the bake is done?
It is done when the top is golden brown and the internal mixture is bubbling visibly.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Fresh tomatoes are recommended for the layered structure; canned tomatoes may be too watery and change the texture of the bake.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can be reheated in the oven to maintain the topping's crispness.