Cheesy Protein Egg Bake Recipe
Introduction
This Cheesy Protein Egg Bake is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. Packed with eggs, cheese, and your choice of sausage or bacon, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or almond milk)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika or fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Step 3: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced bell peppers and onions until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined.
- Step 5: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, cooked sausage or bacon, sautéed vegetables, salt, pepper, and paprika or fresh herbs if using.
- Step 6: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Step 7: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage or bacon and add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
- Use your favorite cheeses or a blend for different flavors and textures.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- Make it ahead by preparing the mixture the night before and baking in the morning.
Storage
Store leftover egg bake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1 minute or until warmed through. You can also freeze portions wrapped tightly; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?
Yes, you can substitute whole eggs with egg whites for a lower fat option, but the bake may be less rich and slightly less firm.
What can I use instead of sausage or bacon?
You can use cooked chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a different protein source.
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Cheesy Protein Egg Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A savory and protein-packed cheesy egg bake loaded with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and your choice of cooked sausage or bacon. This satisfying dish combines creamy cheddar and mozzarella cheeses with fluffy eggs, baked to golden perfection, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a nutritious anytime meal.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or almond milk)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika or fresh herbs (optional)
Vegetables
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup diced onions
Cheese & Protein
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon
Other
- Nonstick spray for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking your egg casserole evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with nonstick spray to prevent the egg bake from sticking and to help with easy serving.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced bell peppers and onions until they soften, about 5 minutes. This step enhances their flavor and texture in the bake.
- Whisk Eggs and Milk: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined and slightly frothy, which helps produce a light texture.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, cooked sausage or bacon, sautéed vegetables, salt, pepper, and optional paprika or fresh herbs into the egg mixture to distribute flavors evenly.
- Assemble: Pour the combined mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly for consistent cooking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is firmly set, indicating it is fully cooked.
Notes
- Use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version.
- You can swap sausage or bacon for other cooked proteins like ham or turkey bacon.
- Adding fresh herbs such as parsley or chives brightens the flavor.
- Allow the bake to cool slightly before slicing to help it set for cleaner cuts.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: egg bake, cheesy egg casserole, breakfast protein bake, sausage egg bake, baked eggs with cheese
