If you are looking for a breakfast or brunch dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Ham and Cheese Omelette Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together fluffy eggs, savory ham, and melty cheese in a harmony that’s quick to whip up yet endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re rushing in the morning or treating yourself on a lazy weekend, this recipe promises a delicious start to your day with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a crucial role in building the flavor, texture, and color of your omelette. From the creaminess of the butter to the savory punch of the ham, every element counts.
- 3 large eggs: Fresh, high-quality eggs make all the difference in that tender, fluffy texture.
- Pinch of salt: Just a touch to enhance the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1 tbsp cream (optional): Adds a little extra silkiness to the eggs if you like them a bit richer.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Creates a golden, non-stick surface and brings creamy notes to the omelette.
- 1/3 cup chopped ham: Pre-cooked ham adds a savory, smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the eggs.
- 1/3 – 1/2 cup shredded Colby cheese: Melts perfectly to create gooey pockets of flavor; you can substitute cheddar, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack for variety.
- 1 stem chive, finely chopped: A fresh, mild onion flavor and a splash of color to brighten things up.
- Garlic butter roasted mushrooms: Optional but enhances earthiness and texture if you want to elevate your meal.
- Roasted cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness and acidity provide a perfect contrast to the rich omelette.
- Toast: The ideal accompaniment to soak up any extra cheese or eggs left on your plate.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Omelette Recipe
Step 1: Master the Heat Control
Starting with the right temperature is crucial. If your omelette begins cooking too quickly and risks burning, simply remove the pan from the stove momentarily. This helps control the heat so your eggs cook gently and evenly without turning rubbery.
Step 2: Whisk Your Eggs with Love
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, a pinch of salt, and the optional cream for about 10 seconds until the mixture becomes slightly foamy. This step introduces air to the eggs, ensuring a fluffy omelette that melts in your mouth.
Step 3: Warm the Ham
Heat a third of the butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat until it’s foamy, then spread it evenly to coat the base. Add your chopped ham and cook for about 90 seconds while stirring gently until warmed through. Once heated, transfer the ham to a bowl to keep warm.
Step 4: Create the Perfect Semi-Scrambled Base
Now melt the remaining butter and swirl it around the pan. Pour in your whisked egg mixture, letting it sit untouched for about 15 seconds until the edges begin to set. Then, slowly scrape the cooked egg from the sides to the center while tipping the pan to let uncooked egg flow beneath. The goal here is to cook the eggs just enough to be slightly shiny and custardy but still spreadable, like soft jam.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Ham
Evenly spread the eggs across the pan, then layer cheese on one half, followed by the warm ham. By this time, the omelette should be almost cooked but still a bit glossy on top — perfect for melting the cheese inside without drying out the eggs.
Step 6: Fold and Finish Cooking
Gently loosen the plain side of the omelette with a spatula, then fold it over the cheese and ham using two spatulas. Let it sit in the pan for another 30 seconds. This extra time allows the cheese to melt beautifully while the inside finishes cooking to that perfect creamy consistency.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Fresh
Slide or gently flip your omelette onto a plate. Sprinkle the finely chopped chives on top for a fresh burst of flavor and a pop of color. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Ham and Cheese Omelette Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley not only makes your dish look inviting but also complements the savory flavors with a touch of brightness. A few roasted cherry tomatoes on the side add sweetness and acidity that cut through the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
To round out the meal, serve this hearty omelette with crunchy toast to scoop up every delicious bite. Garlic butter roasted mushrooms make for a flavorful and earthy side that pairs wonderfully, adding complexity and a little extra indulgence to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try folding the omelette into a neat half-moon or rolling it gently for a different look. Placing it on a bed of lightly dressed salad greens can turn this simple breakfast into a stylish brunch centerpiece. For a fun twist, serve alongside avocado slices topped with a sprinkle of chili flakes and sea salt for texture and zing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, place your omelette in an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. It will keep well for up to 2 days without losing too much of its wonderful texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal as the texture of eggs can change after thawing. If you want to freeze your ham and cheese omelette, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Use it within 1 month for best results. When thawed, the omelette might be best enjoyed warmed and eaten quickly.
Reheating
Reheat your omelette gently in a low-heat pan or microwave at medium power. This keeps it from drying out or becoming rubbery. Adding a small pat of butter during reheating can bring back some moisture and richness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Ham and Cheese Omelette Recipe?
Absolutely! While Colby cheese melts beautifully and adds a mild flavor, you can use cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella depending on your preference. Each cheese will bring a slightly different taste and texture.
Is it necessary to add cream to the eggs?
No, cream is optional. It adds extra richness and silkiness but the omelette will still be delicious if you skip it. Milk can be used as a lighter alternative if you prefer.
How do I make sure my omelette doesn’t overcook?
Patience and heat control are key. Cook over medium heat and take your pan off the stove temporarily if the eggs start cooking too fast. The eggs should look shiny and slightly runny just before folding to avoid dryness.
Can I add vegetables to this Ham and Cheese Omelette Recipe?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms work well and add color, flavor, and nutrients. Just be sure to cook them beforehand to avoid adding extra moisture to your omelette.
What size pan is best for making this recipe?
A 24cm (9.5 inch) non-stick pan is perfect because it gives your eggs room to spread evenly without being too thin or too thick. If your pan is smaller or larger, adjust ingredient quantities accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Cheese Omelette Recipe is one of those timeless classics that feels special no matter when you make it. It’s simple, quick, and endlessly satisfying, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own as a comforting treat. Give it a try soon and savor every bite of that fluffy, cheesy, ham-filled goodness!
Print
Ham and Cheese Omelette Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 omelette
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic ham and cheese omelette is a quick and satisfying breakfast option, combining fluffy eggs with savory ham and melted colby cheese. Enhanced with fresh chives and served alongside flavorful garlic butter roasted mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, and toast, this recipe offers a perfectly balanced meal that’s easy to prepare in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 3 large eggs (~55g / 2oz each, fridge cold fine)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp cream or milk (optional)
Filling
- 1/3 cup chopped ham (store bought preferred)
- 1/3 – 1/2 cup shredded Colby cheese (or cheddar, tasty, gruyere, Monterey Jack)
- 1 stem chive, finely chopped
Cooking Fat
- 1 tbsp / 15 g unsalted butter (or 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil)
Accompaniments
- Garlic butter roasted mushrooms
- Roasted cherry tomatoes on the vine
- Toast
Instructions
- Heat control: Begin by preparing your stovetop heat. If at any point during cooking your omelette is cooking too quickly, remove the pan from the stove temporarily to cool it down, then reduce heat to maintain gentle cooking.
- Whisk the eggs: In a bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, a pinch of salt, and cream (if using) for about 10 seconds until the mixture is slightly foamy and well combined.
- Warm the ham: Heat one-third of the butter in a 24cm (9.5 inch) non-stick pan over medium heat until it becomes foamy. Swirl the pan to coat the base, then add the chopped ham. Using a rubber spatula, cook the ham for about 90 seconds until warmed through but not browned. Remove the ham from the pan and set aside in a bowl.
- Semi-scramble the eggs: Melt the remaining butter in the same pan and swirl to coat the base evenly. Give your eggs a quick whisk once more and pour them into the pan. Let the eggs cook undisturbed for approximately 15 seconds until the edges start to set. Then, with a spatula, gently push cooked egg from edges toward the center and tilt the pan to allow uncooked egg to spread, repeating this leisurely for around 30 seconds. The eggs should be partially cooked—wet enough to spread gently but not so runny that they spill when tilting the pan.
- Add fillings and fold: Evenly spread the semi-cooked eggs across the pan. On one half, layer the shredded cheese followed by the warmed ham. The omelette surface should still be slightly shiny and custardy at this stage. Use two rubber spatulas to gently loosen the naked side of the omelette and carefully fold it over the filled half. Let the folded omelette cook in the pan for another 30 seconds to melt the cheese and finish cooking inside.
- Serve: Slide or gently flip the omelette onto a plate. Sprinkle with chopped chives for garnish, and serve immediately with garlic butter roasted mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, and toast on the side.
Notes
- The cream in the egg mixture adds richness and makes the omelette more tender but is optional if you prefer lighter eggs.
- Store-bought chopped ham works perfectly; ensure it is pre-cooked or smoked ham.
- Any good melting cheese like cheddar, tasty, gruyere, or Monterey Jack can be substituted for Colby.
- Roasted cherry tomatoes on the vine add a sweet, juicy contrast to the savory omelette.
- A 24cm (9.5 inch) non-stick pan is ideal for even cooking and easy flipping.
