Starting your day with a nourishing, protein-packed meal is the key to maintaining energy and focus. If you’re tired of the same old breakfast options, the Broccoli Cheddar Egg Bake: A Healthy Breakfast Casserole is a game-changer. This easy-to-make dish combines the goodness of broccoli, eggs, and turkey bacon with the creamy richness of cheddar cheese, creating a flavorful breakfast that keeps you full for hours. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy mornings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein, vitamins, and minerals to keep you energized.
- Low-Carb & High-Protein: Ideal for those following a keto or low-carb diet.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Reheats beautifully, making it great for busy mornings.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the cheesy, savory flavors.
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Egg Bake
To make this delicious breakfast casserole, you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broccoli, chopped | 1 head |
| Yellow onion, chopped | ½ large (or 1 small) |
| Turkey bacon | 5 slices |
| Eggs | 8 |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | ½ cup |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Perfect Egg Bake
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Turkey Bacon
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place the turkey bacon in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until crispy.
- Transfer to a plate, let it cool slightly, then chop it into small pieces. Set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the chopped broccoli and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until it’s tender but still crisp.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, black pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir in the cooked turkey bacon, sautéed onion, and broccoli, ensuring an even mix.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Spread it evenly and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake to Perfection
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top turns golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Slice into portions and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Egg Bake
1. Don’t Overcook the Eggs
Overbaking can make the eggs rubbery. Check for doneness at the 25-minute mark—the center should be firm but not dry.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh broccoli and onion enhance the flavor and texture. Frozen broccoli works too, but be sure to thaw and drain it first.
3. Experiment with Cheese
While cheddar adds a classic taste, try feta, mozzarella, or gouda for a unique twist.
4. Add Extra Protein
If you want even more protein, toss in some cooked chicken or extra turkey bacon.
5. Make It Dairy-Free
Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free version.
Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli Cheddar Egg Bake
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s what you get in one serving:
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 kcal |
| Protein | ~15g |
| Carbohydrates | ~5g |
| Fat | ~12g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Calcium | ~150mg |
How to Store and Reheat the Egg Bake
Storing:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual slices in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat for 30-60 seconds.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain texture.
Serving Suggestions
1. Pair with a Side Dish
- Fresh fruit for a refreshing balance.
- Whole-grain toast for added fiber.
- Avocado slices for healthy fats.
2. Serve with a Sauce
- Hot sauce for extra spice.
- Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Pesto drizzle for a herby kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this egg bake ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it the night before, store it in the fridge, and bake it fresh in the morning.
2. What’s the best way to meal prep this casserole?
Slice it into portions and store them in airtight containers. Reheat as needed for a quick breakfast.
3. Can I substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon?
Absolutely! You can use pork bacon, ham, or even sausage, depending on your preference.
4. How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Skip the turkey bacon and add more veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
5. Can I add milk or cream for a fluffier texture?
Yes! Adding ¼ cup of milk or heavy cream will make the eggs even fluffier.
6. What other seasonings can I use?
Try paprika, cayenne, Italian seasoning, or even a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth of flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Broccoli Cheddar Egg Bake: A Healthy Breakfast Casserole is a must-try recipe that simplifies your mornings while keeping you full and energized. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, a meal-prep-friendly dish, or a high-protein, low-carb meal, this casserole checks all the boxes.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how you like it!
Print
Broccoli Cheddar Egg Bake: A Healthy Breakfast Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Egg Bake is a nutritious and delicious way to start your day! Packed with protein-rich eggs, fiber-filled broccoli, and crispy turkey bacon, this cheesy breakfast casserole is both satisfying and easy to make. It’s perfect for meal prep, reheats beautifully, and keeps you full for hours. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or high-protein diet, this dish is a great addition to your breakfast routine.
Ingredients
- 1 head of broccoli (chopped)
- Half of a large yellow onion (chopped (or use 1 small onion))
- 5 slices of turkey bacon
- 8 eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the turkey bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey bacon for 4-5 minutes per side, until crispy. Remove from the skillet, let it cool slightly, then chop into small pieces. Set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the chopped broccoli and cook for 3-5 more minutes, until tender but still crisp. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.
4. Prepare the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, black pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the cooked turkey bacon, sautéed onion, and broccoli.
5. Assemble the casserole: Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
6. Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve and enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy a healthy, protein-packed breakfast!
Notes
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Instructions: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months and reheat as needed.
- Cheese Variations: Try mozzarella, feta, or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the turkey bacon and add more veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American