Introduction
The Western Omelette, also known as a Denver Omelette, is a hearty and flavorful breakfast classic. It combines fluffy eggs with savory ham, sweet onions, and vibrant bell peppers, often finished with melted cheese for an extra layer of richness. This omelette is perfect for a satisfying morning meal, brunch, or even a light dinner.
The appeal of a Western Omelette lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s quick to prepare, packed with protein, and loaded with colorful vegetables that add both flavor and visual appeal. Every bite is a perfect combination of fluffy eggs, smoky ham, sweet onions, crisp peppers, and gooey melted cheese.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. The combination of ham, onions, and peppers creates a well-balanced flavor profile that’s both savory and slightly sweet. It’s also packed with protein and vegetables, making it a wholesome choice to start the day.
The Western Omelette is versatile—you can switch up the veggies, add herbs, or use different cheeses to create your own version. It’s a classic breakfast dish that never gets old, and it’s perfect for family breakfasts, brunches, or a weekend treat.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This omelette is a must-try because:
- It’s a classic breakfast favorite known for its hearty flavors.
- Quick and easy to prepare, yet feels gourmet and filling.
- Balanced combination of protein, veggies, and cheese.
- Customizable with a variety of vegetables, meats, and cheeses.
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2 omelettes
- Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
- Course: Breakfast / Brunch
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup diced green bell peppers
- 1/4 cup diced red bell peppers (optional for color)
- 2 tablespoons milk (optional for fluffier eggs)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Cooking Directions
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the ham, onions, and bell peppers.
- Crack eggs into a bowl, add milk, salt, and pepper, and whisk until combined.
- Sauté the Vegetables and Ham
- Heat butter or oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and bell peppers and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add diced ham and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the Eggs
- Reduce heat to medium-low and pour whisked eggs evenly over the ham and vegetables.
- Allow eggs to cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes until they begin to set at the edges.
- Cook the Omelette
- Gently lift the edges with a spatula, allowing uncooked eggs to flow underneath.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Fold the Omelette
- When eggs are mostly set but still slightly soft on top, fold the omelette in half using a spatula.
- Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts and the omelette is fully cooked.
- Serve
- Slide the omelette onto a plate. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
How to Serve
- Serve hot for breakfast or brunch with toast, hash browns, or a fresh salad.
- Pair with fruit, fresh juice, or coffee for a complete meal.
- Can be served as a light dinner with roasted vegetables or a side salad.
Recipe Tips
- Use medium heat to avoid browning the eggs too quickly.
- Whisk eggs with a splash of milk for extra fluffy omelettes.
- Pre-cook vegetables for a softer texture, especially onions and bell peppers.
- Avoid overfilling with ingredients to prevent the omelette from breaking.
- Use a non-stick skillet for easier flipping and folding.
Variations
- Western Veggie Omelette: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- Cheese Lovers: Add multiple cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
- Spicy Western Omelette: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Western Breakfast Burrito: Wrap cooked omelette in a tortilla with salsa.
- Western Omelette Muffins: Bake the mixture in muffin tins for portable breakfast bites.
Freezing and Storage
- Cooked Omelette: Best eaten fresh. Can store in fridge for 1–2 days, reheat gently.
- Ingredients: Pre-chopped vegetables and cooked ham can be stored separately for 2–3 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: Not recommended after assembly; eggs lose texture when frozen.
Special Equipment Needed
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan
- Whisk or fork for eggs
- Spatula for folding
- Cutting board and knife
Conclusion
The Western Omelette with Ham, Onions, and Peppers is a hearty, flavorful, and versatile breakfast dish that combines protein-rich eggs with savory ham and colorful vegetables. Quick to prepare yet satisfying, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. With endless variations and customizable ingredients, this classic omelette is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious, balanced, and comforting meal.
Western Omelette with Ham, Onions, and Peppers
Description
The Western Omelette, also known as a Denver Omelette, is a hearty and flavorful breakfast classic. It combines fluffy eggs with savory ham, sweet onions, and vibrant bell peppers, often finished with melted cheese for an extra layer of richness.
Ingredients
Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the ham, onions, and bell peppers. Crack eggs into a bowl, add milk, salt, and pepper, and whisk until combined.
-
Sauté the Vegetables and Ham: Heat butter or oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened. Add diced ham and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
-
Pour in the Eggs: Reduce heat to medium-low and pour whisked eggs evenly over the ham and vegetables. Allow eggs to cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes until they begin to set at the edges.
-
Cook the Omelette: Gently lift the edges with a spatula, allowing uncooked eggs to flow underneath. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
-
Fold the Omelette: When eggs are mostly set but still slightly soft on top, fold the omelette in half using a spatula. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts and the omelette is fully cooked.
-
Serve: Slide the omelette onto a plate. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
