Baked Denver Omelet Recipe

The baked Denver omelet is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of a traditional omelet without the fuss of stovetop cooking. By baking all of the ingredients together in the oven, you get a fluffy, hearty, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. This omelet is filled with savory diced ham, vibrant bell peppers, and sharp cheddar cheese, making every bite flavorful and comforting. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday meal, this baked omelet is sure to become a family favorite.

What makes this recipe so convenient is that it’s essentially a “set it and forget it” dish. Once you’ve sautéed the vegetables and ham, you simply whisk the eggs with a bit of half-and-half and bake everything together. The result is a golden-brown, fluffy omelet that is both filling and satisfying. The combination of onions, bell peppers, and ham gives it a savory profile, while the cheddar cheese adds a rich and melty texture. If you’re looking for an easy, tasty, and customizable breakfast option, this baked Denver omelet is just the recipe for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to love about this baked Denver omelet! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. Unlike traditional omelets that require flipping and precise timing, this baked version allows you to simply sauté the ingredients, whisk together your eggs, and bake everything in one dish. The result is a delicious, golden omelet that’s easy to slice and serve.

It’s also highly customizable to suit your tastes. You can easily swap out the ham for bacon, sausage, or even a vegetarian option by using additional vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. The combination of bell peppers, onions, and ham provides a wonderful balance of savory, sweet, and slightly smoky flavors, and the cheese adds a creamy richness that ties everything together. It’s the perfect dish to feed a crowd or enjoy as a hearty meal for yourself.

Ingredients

For the Baked Denver Omelet:

• Butter
• Small onion, diced
• Small green bell pepper, diced
• Small red bell pepper, diced
• Diced cooked ham
• Large eggs
• Half-and-half (or whole milk)
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Coarse salt
• Pepper

Variations

This baked Denver omelet is highly versatile, and there are many ways to make it your own. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Bacon or Sausage: Swap the ham for crispy bacon or crumbled sausage for a different savory profile.
• Vegetarian Version: Leave out the meat entirely and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a lighter, vegetarian version.
• Cheese Variations: Try different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or pepper jack for a unique twist on the flavor.
• Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to give the omelet a bit of heat.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme can be mixed into the egg mixture for extra flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or an equivalent-sized oven-safe dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Ham

In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent. Add the diced cooked ham to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ham is warmed through and slightly browned. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half (or whole milk), onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the eggs are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Pour into the Dish

Add the sautéed vegetables and ham to the egg mixture, stirring gently to combine. Then, pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the egg mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Omelet

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the omelet is set in the center and lightly golden brown on top. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the omelet—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the baked Denver omelet to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, use eggs and half-and-half (or milk) that are at room temperature. This will help create a fluffier texture in the omelet.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to add extra vegetables, meats, or cheese to suit your preferences. You can also adjust the seasoning to taste.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the omelet as it bakes. If overcooked, it may become dry. The omelet should be set but still slightly soft in the center when done.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the vegetable and ham mixture in advance, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This can save you time in the morning if you’re making this for breakfast.

How to Serve

The baked Denver omelet is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions for serving:

• Toast: Serve with a slice of whole-grain or sourdough toast to soak up any leftover egg mixture.
• Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit like berries, sliced oranges, or melons can help balance the richness of the omelet.
• Hash Browns: For a classic breakfast, serve with crispy hash browns or roasted potatoes.
• Salad: A light mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the omelet.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover baked Denver omelet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual slices in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked Denver omelet for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before slicing and wrapping each slice in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in the oven or microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or warm the whole omelet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as Swiss, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.

2. Can I make this omelet without ham?

Yes, you can make this omelet vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

3. Can I prepare this omelet ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling (vegetables and ham) ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

4. How do I make the omelet fluffier?

For a fluffier omelet, make sure to whisk the eggs well and use room temperature ingredients.

5. Can I use milk instead of half-and-half?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk for half-and-half, though the omelet may be slightly less rich.

6. Can I add spicy ingredients?

Yes, you can add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to add a bit of heat to the omelet.

7. Can I make this omelet in a different pan?

Yes, you can make the omelet in a round cake pan or any oven-safe dish of similar size. Just ensure it’s greased well to prevent sticking.

8. Can I make this omelet dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter, half-and-half, and cheese with dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter, almond milk, and dairy-free cheese.

9. How do I know when the omelet is done?

The omelet is done when the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. The top should also be lightly golden brown.

10. Can I freeze the baked omelet?

Yes, you can freeze individual portions of the omelet for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Conclusion

The baked Denver omelet is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With its savory combination of ham, peppers, and cheese, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. The ease of preparation and the ability to customize it with different ingredients make it a go-to recipe for busy mornings or casual get-togethers. Whether you enjoy it with a side of toast, salad, or potatoes, this baked omelet is a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and versatile.

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