01 - 
                Preheat the oven to 175 degrees C (350 degrees F). Spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
              
              
              
                02 - 
                Whisk together milk, eggs, salt, and black pepper in a bowl until well mixed.
              
              
              
                03 - 
                Place approximately three-fourths of the cubed bread into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the diced country ham and 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the bread.
              
              
              
                04 - 
                Carefully pour the egg mixture over the bread, ham, and cheese layer.
              
              
              
                05 - 
                Distribute the remaining bread cubes on top and press gently to submerge them into the liquid. Sprinkle the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese over the surface.
              
              
              
                06 - 
                Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top is light golden brown and the center is set.
              
              
              
                07 - 
                Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.