There is something irresistibly comforting about the Baked Denver Omelet Recipe, a delightful spin on the classic Denver omelet that is baked to golden, fluffy perfection. This dish brings together the savory flavors of ham, bell peppers, and onions with melted cheddar cheese, all baked in a way that makes it perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned kitchen enthusiast, this recipe combines ease, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple but vital, working together to create a harmonious blend of colors, textures, and rich flavors. From the creamy eggs to the crisp bell peppers and smoky ham, every addition plays a starring role in making your Baked Denver Omelet Recipe truly shine.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Provides a rich base for sautéing and adds buttery flavor to the veggies.
- 1/2 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch to balance savory elements.
- 1/2 small green bell pepper, diced: Offers a mild bitterness and vibrant green color.
- 1/2 small red bell pepper, diced: Brings a touch of sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
- 1 cup diced cooked ham: The smoky heart of the dish, contributing protein and bold flavor.
- 8 large eggs: The essential base of the omelet, ensuring it’s fluffy and filling.
- 1/4 cup half-n-half (or whole milk): Adds creaminess and helps mellow the eggs for a tender texture.
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully throughout, giving a sharp and gooey richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor subtly without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth that elevates the whole dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt: Balances and amplifies all flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild kick and rounds out the seasoning perfectly.
How to Make Baked Denver Omelet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s hot and ready to give the omelet that perfect rise and golden edges. Grease a 10-inch round baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Ham
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat—it’s the flavor foundation here. Toss in the diced onion and the colorful green and red bell peppers, cooking until they soften and release their natural sweetness, about five minutes. Then add the diced ham, letting it brown slightly for another five minutes, which will infuse the entire mixture with smoky, savory notes.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with half-n-half (or whole milk) until smooth and creamy. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, the ham and vegetable sauté, and sprinkle in your onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently but thoroughly, making sure all the ingredients come together in a colorful, inviting mixture.
Step 4: Bake Your Omelet to Perfection
Pour the egg mixture into your prepared baking dish and slide it into the oven. Bake for about 25 minutes, watching for the omelet to turn golden brown around the edges, puff up delightfully in the center, and pass the clean toothpick test. This step is where all the magic happens, turning simple eggs into a fluffy, flavorful masterpiece.
Step 5: Slice and Serve Warm
Once out of the oven, let it sit for a couple of minutes to settle, then slice into wedges. Serve the Baked Denver Omelet Recipe warm for the best gooey cheese and tender texture experience. This dish shines brightest fresh but it’s just as tasty when reheated.
How to Serve Baked Denver Omelet Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh chopped chives or parsley add a burst of freshness and a lovely pop of color. If you like a bit of zest, a dollop of sour cream or a light spread of salsa complements the savory notes beautifully without overpowering the creamy eggs.
Side Dishes
Classic pairings like crispy hash browns, toasted sourdough bread, or a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette elevate this baked omelet from comfort food to a wholesome meal. Fresh fruit or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice also pairs nicely for a balanced brunch plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a brunch, serve the Baked Denver Omelet Recipe in its baking dish for a rustic, family-style vibe. For a more elegant touch, plate individual wedges on colorful plates with a sprinkle of microgreens and a drizzle of pesto or hot sauce. You can even create mini versions in ramekins for personalized servings at buffets or special gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Denver Omelet Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
This omelet freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will keep for up to two months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pop frozen or refrigerated slices into a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes or microwave on medium power in short intervals to keep the omelet from getting rubbery. This way, you’ll maintain that wonderfully tender, cheesy deliciousness each time.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Baked Denver Omelet Recipe?
Absolutely! While shredded cheddar gives a classic sharpness, feel free to swap it for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping breakfasts?
Definitely. The Baked Denver Omelet Recipe is excellent to make ahead and reheat throughout the week. It saves time while still delivering a satisfying and nutritious start to your day.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the diced ham and consider adding mushrooms or extra bell peppers instead to keep that savory, hearty texture without the meat.
What’s the best way to dice the vegetables quickly and evenly?
Use a sharp chef’s knife and try to cut the vegetables into uniform small cubes so they cook evenly. Taking a little extra time here ensures a perfect balance of texture in every bite.
Can I prepare this recipe without a skillet for the sauté step?
While sautéing the veggies and ham adds depth of flavor, you could skip it and toss raw diced veggies and ham directly into the egg mixture, but expect a more raw and less caramelized taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
Giving the Baked Denver Omelet Recipe a try is like welcoming a warm hug at your breakfast table. It’s simple, satisfying, and filled with familiar, delicious flavors that everyone will love. Whether for a special occasion or a comforting everyday meal, this dish will soon become one of your favorites, too. So grab those ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy making a meal that feels like a celebration in every bite.
Print
Baked Denver Omelet Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Baked Denver Omelet is a delicious and hearty breakfast dish featuring a savory blend of diced ham, bell peppers, onions, and cheddar cheese baked to perfection. It’s an easy-to-make, oven-baked omelet that serves six and is perfect for a family brunch or meal prep.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Meat
- 1/2 small onion, diced
- 1/2 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 1/4 cup half-n-half (or whole milk)
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and coat a 10-inch round baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables and Ham: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then add the diced cooked ham and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Mix Eggs and Seasonings: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half-n-half until well combined. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, the sautéed ham and vegetable mixture, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake the Omelet: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, the middle is puffed, and a toothpick or tester inserted comes out clean.
- Serve: Remove the baked omelet from the oven, slice it into six wedges, and serve warm for a filling and flavorful breakfast or brunch.
Notes
- You can substitute half-n-half with whole milk or a milk alternative if preferred.
- Make sure the ham is cooked before adding to the recipe to avoid undercooked meat.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add more veggies like mushrooms or tomatoes.
- Use a nonstick baking dish or grease the pan well to ensure easy removal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a quick breakfast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
