Savory Ham Enchilada Brunch Bake

Why settle for a plain breakfast when you can transform your morning into a culinary celebration with these scrumptious Brunch Enchiladas with Ham? Imagine tender diced ham, crisp green onions, and savory cheese, all generously wrapped in a soft flour tortilla and drenched in a rich, creamy bechamel sauce. Top these delightful breakfast enchiladas with your favorite Mexican accompaniments like fresh salsa, cool sour cream, or creamy guacamole, and prepare to dig into a meal that redefines breakfast! This make-ahead breakfast enchilada recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience, promising a delicious start to any day, especially perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a festive gathering.

It’s always amusing to me how many fantastic brunch recipes I’ve collected over the years, considering I’ve never been a “breakfast person” in the traditional sense. However, I absolutely adore hosting brunches because the possibilities for delightful breakfast and brunch foods are truly endless. And, let’s be honest, mimosas are usually a welcome addition to the menu, setting a festive and relaxed tone for any morning get-together.

Mimosas aside, this particular breakfast enchilada recipe has become one of my all-time favorites, a dish I find myself returning to time and time again. These overnight breakfast enchiladas are a true testament to cheesy goodness, generously loaded with flavorful ham, vibrant green onions, and a luxurious bechamel sauce that binds everything together. They are consistently a huge hit with everyone who tries them. We especially love serving them with a side of zesty salsa, cooling sour cream, and creamy guacamole, creating a complete and utterly perfect Mexican-inspired breakfast feast. It’s the kind of dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen on the morning of your event, making it an ideal choice for entertaining.

If you’re eager for more breakfast inspiration that will impress your guests or simply elevate your morning routine, I highly recommend trying these irresistible Breakfast Sliders, crafted with juicy pork sausage and a fluffy egg mixture. Another fantastic option is this comforting Sausage and Crescent Bake, which combines flaky pastry with savory sausage. For something truly unique and satisfying, don’t miss this incredible Breakfast Hashbrown Pizza, generously topped with both ham and crispy bacon for a hearty start to your day.

This post is proudly sponsored by Iowa Pork. My opinions, and my lifelong love for delicious pork recipes and the quality of Iowa Pork, are entirely my own. I only share products and brands that I genuinely believe in and enjoy in my own kitchen.

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DID YOU KNOW THAT AN ASTOUNDING ONE-THIRD OF ALL PORK RAISED IN THE UNITED STATES COMES DIRECTLY FROM THE HEARTLAND OF IOWA?

Many people might not realize this, but my husband actually grew up on a working farm in rural Iowa. His family’s livelihood centered around cultivating corn and soybeans, as well as raising hogs. His dad also owned and operated the local fertilizer and anhydrous business, a vital part of the agricultural community. This deep connection to farming has given me a unique perspective on where our food comes from and the hard work involved.

When I made my very first trip to the farm to meet his parents, they were quite amused by what they affectionately called the “city girl” he had brought home. I know, if you’re reading this from bustling metropolises like New York City or Los Angeles, you might be thinking, “Omaha? A big city??” But compared to his hometown, which had a population of barely 300 residents, Omaha truly felt like a bustling urban center to them. It was a charming contrast that always brings a smile to my face.

Before marrying into a farming family, I had never seen a hog up close, nor did I even know what a combine was! We spent countless weekends on the farm during the early years of our marriage and as our family grew. Our children have fond memories of riding in tractors with their grandpa, gleefully feeding the farm cats, and they quickly learned what it meant when he would proudly declare, “That’s the smell of money.” Those crops and those hogs were the very essence of their livelihood, providing for their family and contributing to their community.

When you choose to purchase pork at your grocery store, whether you’re in Iowa or anywhere else across the United States, you are directly supporting local family farms, like the one my husband grew up on. No matter the size of the farm, from large operations to smaller, more intimate settings, it’s important to remember that there is always a dedicated family behind it, working tirelessly to bring quality food to your table. Choosing Iowa Pork means choosing a product backed by generations of farming knowledge, sustainable practices, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

The Ultimate Breakfast Enchiladas with Ham

If you’ve yet to experience the pure joy of enchiladas for breakfast, you truly don’t know what a delicious morning treat you’re missing! This incredible breakfast enchilada recipe is the quintessential make-ahead breakfast, perfect for effortlessly feeding a crowd on a bustling weekend morning or when you’re hosting a special event. With just a little bit of thoughtful prep the night before, you can dedicate the next day to organizing all your other delightful brunch dishes while these savory enchiladas bake to perfection in the oven. This recipe is not only convenient but also incredibly versatile, making it an especially perfect choice for upcoming festivities like Cinco de Mayo, where a Mexican-inspired breakfast feast is sure to be a hit. Get ready to impress your guests with minimal stress!

Essential Ingredients for Delicious Brunch Enchiladas with Ham

To create these incredibly satisfying brunch enchiladas, you’ll need a selection of fresh and flavorful ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it to your liking. You will find the complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions clearly outlined in the printable recipe card, conveniently located at the bottom of this post. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to gather:

• Fully cooked ham: For this recipe, I prefer to use cubed cooked ham. This is an excellent opportunity to utilize any leftover ham you might have from holiday meals, like Easter or Christmas, ensuring no delicious ham goes to waste!
• Green onions: Finely chopped green onions add a mild, fresh, and slightly pungent flavor that beautifully complements the richness of the ham and cheese. While green onions are our preferred choice, shallots can also work well as a substitute, offering a slightly sweeter, milder onion flavor. Red, yellow, or even white onions could also be used, though they will provide a stronger, more traditional onion taste.
• Flour tortillas: Soft flour tortillas provide the perfect pliable wrap for our savory filling. If you prefer, corn tortillas can also be used for a more authentic Mexican flavor and a slightly firmer texture, but they might require a quick dip in warm oil to prevent tearing.
• Mexican blend cheese: I typically opt for a pre-shredded Mexican blend cheese for convenience, which usually includes Monterey Jack, cheddar, and sometimes asadero or queso blanco. However, sharp cheddar cheese, spicy pepper jack, or a delightful combination of both would also be fantastic. For the freshest taste and best melt, you could always shred your own cheese from a block.
• All-purpose flour: A small amount of all-purpose flour is essential for creating the roux that forms the base of our silky, smooth bechamel sauce, which will coat and enrich our enchiladas.
• Half-and-half cream: This provides the perfect creamy consistency for our bechamel. For an even richer sauce, you can substitute heavy cream. Alternatively, if you prefer a lighter option, whole milk or a combination of milk and cream can be used, though the sauce’s richness will vary.
• Eggs: Lightly beaten eggs are crucial for forming the custard-like texture of the bechamel sauce, helping it to set beautifully during baking and enveloping the fillings in a luxurious coating.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the dish. Adjust to your personal taste.
• Optional Toppings: The fun part! Elevate your breakfast enchiladas with a variety of fresh toppings. Consider serving with vibrant salsa or chunky Pico de Gallo, a dollop of cool sour cream, creamy guacamole or sliced avocado, extra chopped green onions for garnish, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of herbaceous flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Prepare Your Breakfast Enchiladas

Crafting these irresistible breakfast enchiladas is simpler than you might think, especially with the advantage of being able to prepare them ahead of time. Follow these easy steps for a stress-free and delicious brunch:

First Step: Begin by preparing your baking dish. Lightly spray the bottom and sides of a standard 9 x 13-inch glass baking pan with your preferred non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step ensures that your enchiladas won’t stick and will lift out easily for serving.

Second Step: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine your finely chopped green onions with the cubed cooked ham. Gently toss them together until they are well mixed, creating a uniform and flavorful filling. For each tortilla, spoon approximately 1/3 of a cup of this ham and onion mixture down the center. Then, generously sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of your shredded Mexican blend cheese over the filling. The cheese will melt beautifully, binding the ham and onions together. Roll each tortilla “enchilada style,” ensuring the filling is securely tucked inside, and place it seam-side down in your prepared baking pan. Repeat this process until all 8 tortillas are filled and arranged neatly in the pan. Don’t worry if they fit snugly; that’s ideal for a cohesive bake.

Third Step: This step shows the careful rolling of the tortillas. Once filled, roll each tortilla tightly, starting from one edge, ensuring the seam is positioned downwards when placed in the baking dish. This technique helps keep the enchiladas intact during baking, preventing the delicious filling from spilling out.

Fourth Step: In a separate large mixing bowl, prepare your creamy egg custard. Whisk together the beaten eggs with the all-purpose flour, half-and-half cream, salt, and black pepper. Continue to beat the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth, with no lumps of flour visible. This will create a rich and savory sauce that will soak into the tortillas as they bake, adding moisture and flavor.

Fifth Step: Carefully pour this rich egg custard evenly over all the assembled tortillas in the baking pan, ensuring each enchilada is well coated. Once covered, tightly seal the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Now, transfer the covered pan to the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 8 hours, or ideally, overnight. This resting period is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the tortillas to soften, preventing them from becoming soggy during baking.

Sixth Step: On the morning you plan to bake and serve your enchiladas, remove the pan from the refrigerator approximately 30 minutes before you’re ready to put them in the oven. This allows them to come closer to room temperature, ensuring a more even bake. Just before baking, generously sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the enchiladas. This layer of cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly crust, adding an irresistible finish.

Seventh Step: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Ensuring the oven is at the correct temperature before placing the enchiladas in will help them bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.

Eighth Step: Place the pan of enchiladas into the preheated oven. Bake them covered with aluminum foil for the first 25 minutes. This helps steam the enchiladas, ensuring the tortillas become tender and the filling heats through. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is beautifully melted, golden, and bubbly around the edges. You’ll know they’re perfectly done when they look irresistibly delicious.

Ninth Step: Once baked, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them stand for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period is important as it allows the flavors to settle and makes for easier, cleaner serving, preventing the filling from running out.

Serve these magnificent breakfast enchiladas hot with your choice of vibrant salsa, a cool dollop of sour cream, a scoop of creamy guacamole, or whatever delicious toppings your heart desires! They are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of fresh additions.

Love It? Pin It for Later!

Don’t let this incredibly simple and delicious recipe for make-ahead brunch enchiladas get lost in the shuffle! Make sure to save it for future reference by pinning it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you leave. This way, it will always be easy to find whenever you’re planning your next delicious brunch!

Understanding the Nuances: Smoked vs. Cured Hams

It’s common for some to confuse smoked hams with cured hams, and to make matters even more intricate, there are also “fresh” hams in addition to “smoked and cured” varieties. To clarify, a cured ham has undergone a brining process, meaning it has been soaked in a salt solution, often with other seasonings. However, a cured ham might still be either cooked or uncooked; the curing process itself doesn’t guarantee it’s ready-to-eat.

“Fresh ham,” on the other hand, simply refers to the specific cut of pork – typically the back top thigh of the leg – that has not been cured or cooked in any way. Therefore, a fresh ham absolutely *must* be cured and cooked before consumption! You’ll find clear labeling on the product packaging indicating whether the ham is “ready to eat” (meaning fully cooked) or if it requires cooking first. Generally, you’ll only encounter fresh ham if you specifically request it from your butcher. The hams prominently displayed in the meat department of most grocery stores are almost always pre-cooked, cured, and in many cases, also smoked for added flavor and preservation. This understanding ensures you choose the right type of ham for your culinary needs, whether it’s for these delicious brunch enchiladas or another recipe.

Ensuring Food Safety: Internal Cooking Temperature of Ham

You might wonder if the internal cooking temperature of a ham truly matters, especially if it’s already pre-cooked or smoked. The answer is a definitive yes! Even if a ham has been previously cooked or smoked commercially, when you are reheating or cooking it at home, it’s crucial for food safety and optimal taste to ensure it reaches the correct internal temperature. For previously cooked or smoked ham, you will want the internal temperature to register 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) when measured with a reliable meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone. This ensures it’s heated thoroughly and safely for consumption.

For comprehensive and precise cooking times and temperatures for all cuts of pork, I highly recommend consulting the official Iowa Pork’s Website. They offer an incredibly handy guide that is a fantastic resource. I suggest bookmarking it so you can easily refer to it whenever you’re preparing any pork dish, ensuring perfect results every time.

Knowing When Your Ham Enchiladas Are Perfectly Done

For this particular brunch enchilada recipe, there’s no need to guess whether the ham is cooked through. Since the recipe calls for fully cooked ham, that component is already taken care of before it even goes into the enchiladas. The key indicators that these ham enchiladas are perfectly done revolve around the other ingredients and the overall appearance. They are ready to be enjoyed when the cheese on top has completely melted and is beautifully golden and bubbly, and the creamy egg custard sauce is set and heated through. You’ll see delightful golden-brown edges, and the entire dish will be uniformly hot, signaling it’s time to take them out of the oven and let them rest before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Brunch Enchiladas

• Can you make enchiladas ahead of time without them getting soggy? Absolutely! The best strategy to prevent enchiladas from becoming soggy when preparing them in advance is to hold off on pouring the sauce over them until just before you’re ready to cook. For this specific recipe, the overnight soak in the egg custard actually helps the tortillas become tender and infused with flavor, creating a delightful texture rather than sogginess.
• How do you prevent enchiladas from being soggy on the bottom? One effective method to help prevent the bottom of your enchiladas from becoming soggy is to lightly fry the tortillas in a small amount of oil for a few seconds per side before filling and rolling them. This creates a slight barrier and helps them maintain their structure. Additionally, ensuring your baking dish isn’t excessively crowded and that the sauce isn’t overly liquidy can help.
• What diverse fillings can I put in my enchiladas? The beauty of enchiladas lies in their incredible versatility! You can keep them delightfully simple with classic beans and cheese, or you can load them up with a wide array of meats and vegetables. Think shredded chicken, ground beef, roasted vegetables, or even a spicy chorizo. The options are truly endless, allowing for endless customization to suit any palate.
• Why are my enchiladas soggy on the bottom? If your enchiladas end up soggy, especially on the bottom, it’s often due to too much sauce, particularly if the sauce is very thin, or if the tortillas weren’t prepared (lightly fried) to create a bit of a barrier. Ensuring the custard for these brunch enchiladas is the right consistency and giving them proper baking time uncovered will help achieve that perfect texture.

Creative Substitutions and Exciting Variations for Your Brunch Enchiladas

While these brunch enchiladas with ham are absolutely delicious as written, there are countless ways to customize them and create new flavor profiles to suit your preferences. Here are some fantastic ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Serve with different accompaniments: Instead of traditional red salsa, try serving with a vibrant salsa verde for a tangy twist. For a heartier meal, consider pairing them with black beans or a side of savory breakfast sausage and hash browns.
• Tortilla alternatives: While flour tortillas offer a soft texture, using white corn tortillas can lend a more authentic Mexican flavor and a slightly firmer bite. Just remember to warm corn tortillas briefly before rolling to prevent tearing.
• Add more veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding finely diced red bell peppers, green peppers, mushrooms, or any of your favorite breakfast-friendly vegetables to the ham and onion mixture before filling the tortillas. Sautéing them briefly beforehand will soften them and enhance their taste.
• Traditional enchilada sauce: For a departure from the bechamel and a more classic Mexican flavor, consider making my Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce and baking it over the top of the filled tortillas. This will give you a rich, robust, and familiar enchilada experience.
• Introduce some heat: If you enjoy a touch of spice, add a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce to the egg custard mixture before pouring it over the enchiladas.
• Spice up the egg mixture: Infuse more depth of flavor into the egg custard by stirring in some chili powder, a pinch of taco seasoning, or some finely diced green chilies (canned or fresh). This adds a wonderful, subtle warmth.
• Fresh herb garnish: A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley as a garnish provides a beautiful pop of color and a refreshing herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish.
• Bacon lover’s twist: For an extra layer of savory flavor and crunch, consider sprinkling crispy bacon bits on top of the enchiladas along with the cheese before baking.

Expert Tips & Tricks for Perfect Brunch Enchiladas

Achieving perfect brunch enchiladas is simple with a few helpful tips and tricks up your sleeve:

• Onion Substitutions: If you find yourself without green onions, don’t fret! You can easily substitute them with finely minced white onions for a slightly stronger flavor, or shallots for a milder, sweeter onion note. Both will work wonderfully in the ham mixture.
• Customizing the Creaminess: The half-and-half cream provides a luxurious richness to the custard sauce. However, if you’re aiming for an even richer texture, you can use heavy cream. For a lighter version, or if half-and-half isn’t available, a combination of milk and cream, or even just whole milk, can be used, though this will result in a slightly less rich custard. Adjust according to your preference and what you have on hand.
• Utilizing Leftovers: These make-ahead breakfast enchiladas are truly versatile and perfect for using up leftovers. They would be an absolutely ideal dish to repurpose leftover ham from a holiday feast, such as Easter or Christmas dinner. Beyond ham, consider using leftover cooked sausage or crispy bacon bits for a different, yet equally delicious, flavor profile. This not only makes for an economical meal but also saves you prep time!
• Resting is Key: Don’t skip the 30-minute resting period after taking the enchiladas out of the fridge and before baking. This allows the dish to come closer to room temperature, ensuring a more even and thorough bake.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the enchiladas in the oven. While you want the cheese to be bubbly and golden, overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Once the cheese is melted and the sauce is set, they’re ready!

More Irresistible Brunch Recipes Featuring Pork

In my culinary world, a truly satisfying breakfast or brunch feels incomplete without the savory goodness of ham, sausage, or crispy bacon. These pork products add a depth of flavor and heartiness that transforms a simple meal into something truly special. If you’re searching for other delicious Mexican or Southwestern-style breakfast and brunch items to complement your spread or to try on their own, I have some fantastic recommendations for you. Dive into my delightful Green Chile Quiche with Sausage, a flavor-packed dish that’s both creamy and zesty. Or, for a classic on-the-go option, my hearty Breakfast Burritos, generously filled with savory sausage, are always a hit. And for a unique twist, don’t miss my Southwestern Sausage Brunch Roll-Ups, which are perfect for sharing.

Even More Delicious Pork Recipes for Brunch:

• Bacon Swiss Quiche (pictured above): A classic, creamy quiche with the irresistible combination of smoky bacon and nutty Swiss cheese.
• Ham & Smoked Gouda Quiche: Elevate your quiche game with savory ham and the rich, distinct flavor of smoked Gouda.
• Resort Omelets: Fluffy omelets that evoke the feeling of a luxurious vacation, easily customized with your favorite fillings, including delicious ham or bacon.
• Homemade Sausage, Egg and Cheese Croissan’wichs: Skip the drive-thru and make your own superior version of this breakfast favorite with flaky croissants.
• Apple Glazed Double Smoked Ham: A show-stopping centerpiece ham, perfect for holidays or when you want to impress with rich, smoky, and sweet flavors.

Explore More Cinco de Mayo & Mexican-Inspired Recipes

It’s no secret to anyone who knows me that Mexican cuisine holds a special place in my heart – it is, hands down, my favorite! If you’re looking for a wide array of Mexican recipes to choose from, whether for Cinco de Mayo, a casual weeknight dinner, or a festive gathering, I have you completely covered with a treasure trove of authentic and delicious options. My incredibly tender Slow Cooker Carnitas recipe or this bright and zesty Cilantro Lime Pork are both fantastic bases that can be used in an endless variety of delicious ways. Imagine them as the star filling in flavorful tacos, hearty burritos, or added to classic cheese and onion enchiladas, or even creamy white chicken enchiladas. Either pork preparation is also absolutely incredible when baked into crispy baked taquitos or as the flavorful protein in a vibrant taco salad bowl. The possibilities are truly limitless!

To complete your perfect Mexican meal, serve everything up with a side of my incredibly flavorful Restaurant Style Refried Beans and some aromatic Cilantro Lime Rice. These complementary dishes will elevate your entire dining experience, making it feel like you’re enjoying a meal at your favorite Mexican restaurant right at home!

Be sure to follow along with Iowa Pork on their various social media channels, including Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter, for a year-round supply of delicious pork recipes and inspiration! They consistently share fantastic ideas that celebrate the versatility and flavor of pork.

The next time you’re anticipating guests or simply want to treat your family to something special on a Sunday morning, these easy make-ahead breakfast enchiladas are the perfect addition to your brunch menu. They are incredibly hearty, satisfying, and offer a wonderful, flavorful alternative to more basic breakfast fare. They are sure to become a new family favorite!