Camp Oven Ham and Cheese Casserole

Camp Oven Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

The camp oven ham and cheese breakfast casserole is a delectable and satisfying dish that blends the classic flavours of ham, cheese, and eggs into a hearty breakfast meal. This article explores the rich history and origins of this breakfast staple and its relevance in the context of outdoor cooking, particularly within Australian bush cuisine.

The Origins: A Classic Breakfast Staple

Breakfast casseroles, combining various ingredients like eggs, bread, cheese, and meats, have long been a cherished staple in many cultures worldwide.

• American Influence: Breakfast casseroles gained popularity in the United States, particularly as a convenient and nourishing dish. They were initially served at large gatherings and became a weekend family favourite due to their ease of preparation and versatility.
• Ham and Cheese Components: The use of ham and cheese as primary ingredients can be traced back to various European cuisines, where ham and cheese have often been paired together to create rich, savoury dishes.
• Adaptation in Australia: As Australians adopted global culinary trends, the ham and cheese breakfast casserole found its place in Australian kitchens and campsites, where it became a beloved choice for morning meals.

**Example:** The adaptation of this American breakfast staple into Australian cuisine illustrates the influence of global culinary trends and the enduring appeal of hearty, versatile dishes that are easy to prepare and enjoy in various settings.

Camp Ovens: Ideal for Creating a Hearty Breakfast

The camp oven, or Dutch oven, is a versatile and durable cooking tool that is perfectly suited for making breakfast casseroles in an outdoor setting.

• Even Heat Distribution: Cast iron camp ovens provide even heat distribution, ensuring that the eggs cook uniformly and the cheese melts perfectly, creating a cohesive and satisfying dish.
• Durability and Versatility: The sturdy construction of camp ovens allows for various cooking methods, including baking, roasting, and stewing, making them ideal for the challenging conditions of bush cooking.
• Enhanced Flavours: Cooking a ham and cheese breakfast casserole in a camp oven over an open fire can impart a subtle, smoky flavour, adding an extra dimension to the dish's overall taste and highlighting its rustic appeal.

**Example:** Using a camp oven to prepare a ham and cheese breakfast casserole allows outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy a filling and delicious meal, embracing the authenticity and charm of bush cooking techniques.

Key Ingredients: Ham, Cheese, and Eggs

The combination of ham, cheese, and eggs forms the foundation of this breakfast casserole, creating a dish that is both nourishing and flavourful.

• Ham: The ham adds a rich, savoury flavour and a pleasant, chewy texture to the casserole. Its saltiness balances the creamy and mild taste of the eggs and cheese.
• Cheese: Cheese, typically cheddar or Swiss, contributes a creamy and melty quality to the dish. It enhances the overall richness and binds the ingredients together.
• Eggs: Eggs serve as the primary binder, holding all the ingredients together and providing a nutritional boost with their high protein content.

**Example:** The interplay of savoury ham, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs results in a balanced and hearty dish that is perfect for starting the day, particularly in an outdoor setting.

A Dish that Celebrates Tradition and Outdoor Enjoyment

The camp oven ham and cheese breakfast casserole is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of culinary tradition and the joys of outdoor cooking. This dish embodies both heritage and modern convenience, making it an ideal choice for breakfast gatherings in nature.

• Community and Connection: Preparing and sharing a breakfast casserole in an outdoor setting fosters a sense of community, bringing people together to enjoy a hearty meal amidst the beauty of nature.
• Cultural Significance: This dish represents the fusion of American breakfast traditions with Australian bush cooking techniques, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of Australian cuisine.
• Tradition and Versatility: By adapting a classic breakfast dish to a camp oven setting, cooks can celebrate traditional ingredients and techniques while embracing the innovative spirit of bush cooking.

**Example:** Enjoying a camp oven ham and cheese breakfast casserole under the morning sun allows diners to appreciate both the rich heritage of the dish and the unique experience of outdoor cooking, making it a memorable addition to any camping adventure.

Camp Oven Ham and Cheese Casserole

Camp Oven Ham and Cheese Casserole is a delightful and satisfying dish, perfect for outdoor cooking. Combining hearty pasta, succulent ham, and creamy cheese, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser around the campfire.

Ingredients

• 500 grams (1.1 lbs) pasta (penne or elbow macaroni)
• 2 cups (300 grams / 10.6 oz) diced ham
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups (500 ml) milk
• 1 cup (250 ml) chicken broth
• 2 cups (200 grams / 7 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (100 grams / 3.5 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams / 1 oz) plain flour
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) black pepper
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Dijon mustard
• 1 cup (100 grams / 3.5 oz) breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup (25 grams / 0.9 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Camp oven (Dutch oven), approximately 4.5 litres (5 quarts)
• Heat-resistant tongs
• Fire gloves
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk

Instructions

1. Preparing the Campfire

• Set up your campfire or portable gas burner. Ensure you have enough coals or a steady flame to maintain consistent heat.
• Place the camp oven over medium heat to preheat for about 10 minutes with the lid on.

2. Cooking the Pasta

• In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Making the Cheese Sauce

• Heat the olive oil in the preheated camp oven.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle the plain flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes.
• Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted and fully combined.
• Add the salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard, stirring to incorporate.

4. Combining the Ingredients

• Stir the cooked pasta and diced ham into the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat evenly.

5. Topping and Baking the Casserole

• In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the pasta and ham mixture in the camp oven.
• Cover the camp oven with its lid and position it over the prepared campfire or gas burner.
• Arrange hot coals on top of the lid to create an oven-like environment, ensuring even cooking.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through. Check periodically and adjust the coals to maintain consistent heat.

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