This high-protein cottage cheese breakfast casserole is a tasty way to start your day. Packed with eggs, veggies, and cheese, it’s creamy, filling, and oh-so-good!
Honestly, who knew breakfast could be this easy and healthy? I love making it on weekends and enjoying leftovers during the week. It’s a win-win situation! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of the dish! It adds creaminess and protein. You can use full-fat or low-fat, depending on your preference. If you’re not a fan, ricotta cheese makes a great substitute for a similar texture.
Eggs: A key ingredient for binding everything together. I recommend using large eggs for proper proportions. If you want a lighter version, you can replace some eggs with egg whites or try flax eggs for a vegan option.
Breakfast Sausage: This brings in savory flavor and protein. You can use crumbled cooked sausage or diced bacon. For a leaner option, turkey sausage works well. If avoiding meat, try sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a protein boost.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. Feel free to substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste or a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant. Using different cheeses can change the flavor profile, so choose what you enjoy!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Comes Out Fluffy and Not Dense?
To keep your casserole light and airy, focus on a few key steps:
- Whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly. This incorporates air, giving your casserole fluffiness!
- Don’t overload on heavy ingredients. Stick to the recommended amounts of cheese and sausage to avoid a dense dish.
- Bake until just set. An underbaked casserole can be soggy, while overbaking leads to dryness. Check for doneness with a knife or toothpick.
- Let it cool briefly before slicing. This helps it firm up and hold its shape better.
These tips help achieve the perfect texture everyone loves in a breakfast casserole!
Irresistible High-protein Cottage Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat or low fat)
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
Flavor Boosters:
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled (or diced cooked bacon)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/4 cup cooked corn kernels (optional)
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Greasing:
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This breakfast casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35 to 45 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about an hour getting this hearty dish ready, then it’s just a short wait to enjoy it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab your 9×9-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier!
2. Mix the Eggs and Milk
In a large mixing bowl, crack in the 6 large eggs and pour in the 1/4 cup of milk. Using a whisk, mix them together thoroughly until smooth. This will be the base of your casserole.
3. Combine the Main Ingredients
Next, add the cottage cheese, crumbled sausage (or bacon), shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red bell pepper, green onions, and corn if you’re using it! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Pour and Spread the Mixture
Take the combined mixture and carefully pour it into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, making sure every corner is filled.
5. Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for about 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the casserole is set in the middle and the top is golden brown. To check if it’s done, insert a knife or toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
6. Cool and Cut
Once your casserole is out of the oven, set it aside to cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps it firm up a bit and makes it easier to cut into squares.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Before serving, feel free to sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for a dash of color. Cut into squares and enjoy your hearty, protein-packed breakfast! This casserole is not only delicious but will keep you full and energized for the day ahead!
Happy cooking! Enjoy every bite of your delicious breakfast casserole! 🍳✨
Can I Use Egg Alternatives in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for an egg alternative, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) or a commercial egg replacer. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake them in the oven until warm. Just add a splash of milk if it seems dry!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with your veggies—spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms work wonderfully. Just make sure to sauté any extra veggies first to reduce moisture content before adding them to the mixture.
Is This Recipe Freezable?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Simply bake it, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.