This hearty breakfast casserole is packed with protein thanks to the cottage cheese and eggs. It’s perfect for a filling morning meal and easy to make ahead!
I love how this dish makes breakfast a breeze. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! Plus, it’s a great way to power through the day. Who doesn’t love a warm dish baked with love? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of the dish, providing a creamy texture and a protein boost. If you’re lactose intolerant, try lactose-free cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for a similar consistency.
Eggs: A key ingredient for binding the casserole. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can substitute flaxseed meal with water (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) or use silken tofu blended until smooth.
Milk: Any milk works, but for a creamier texture, use whole or almond milk. If you’re aiming to reduce calories, skim milk is a great low-fat alternative.
Veggies: Red bell peppers add sweetness and crunch, but feel free to swap with zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Cheese: Feta adds a nice tanginess. If you’re not a fan, shredded cheddar or mozzarella also works well. Vegan cheese could be an option too if you want to keep it plant-based.
Protein Add-ins: Ground turkey or chicken sausage boosts protein content. Vegetarian sausage crumbles are an excellent alternative for a meat-free version!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the casserole until it’s just right can be tricky! You want a golden brown top and a set center. Start by preheating your oven properly. Here are key tips:
- Use a 9×9 inch baking dish for even cooking.
- Check doneness at around 30 minutes. You want the middle to be firm and not jiggle.
- Let it cool briefly before slicing. This helps it hold together better when serving.
Remember to adjust cooking time based on your oven, as they can vary. Enjoy your delicious and protein-packed breakfast casserole!
Irresistible High-protein Cottage Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
Vegetables:
- 1 cup diced red bell peppers
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach or kale
For Flavor and Texture:
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked ground turkey or chicken sausage (optional for extra protein)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
- Cooking spray or a little olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional baking time of 30-40 minutes. Plus, it needs 5-10 minutes to cool before slicing. In total, you’re looking at under an hour for a delicious, protein-packed breakfast that can fuel your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×9 inch (or similar size) baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. It’s a small step, but it makes a huge difference!
2. Mix Your Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. This will help create a fluffy texture for your casserole. Give it a good mix to combine!
3. Combine All Ingredients:
Now, add in the cottage cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed in the bowl. This is where the flavors start to come together!
4. Add the Vegetables and Cheese:
Fold in the diced red bell peppers, chopped spinach or kale, and crumbled feta (or your cheese of choice). If you’re using cooked ground turkey or chicken sausage, add that in too! Stir gently to combine all the ingredients without breaking up the cottage cheese too much.
5. Bake It Up:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and flavor.
6. The Baking Process:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top has turned a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This waiting time helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to slice. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, high-protein breakfast!
This casserole is perfect for meal prep too: you can prepare it the night before, let it chill in the fridge, and bake it fresh in the morning. Or bake it ahead and reheat slices for a quick breakfast any day of the week! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the red bell peppers and spinach or kale with other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or even broccoli. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or warm them in a skillet on the stove until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.
Is This Casserole Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, it is! You can freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s completely cooled, slice it into portions, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
