Are you looking for a quick and easy breakfast or brunch recipe that's also healthy and gluten-free? Look no further! This egg casserole is the perfect solution. Packed with flavor and protein, it's incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking. It's a great way to use up leftover vegetables, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend morning. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, making it an ideal healthy meal option for the entire week. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon or sausage (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or dill)
Instructions:
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Prep the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion and bell pepper. If using bacon or sausage, make sure it's cooked and crumbled. Prepping your ingredients beforehand makes the cooking process much smoother.
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Whisk the Eggs: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until light and frothy. This ensures a light and airy texture in your final dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, bacon or sausage (if using), cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh herbs (if using) to the egg mixture. Gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
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Bake the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish. You can use cooking spray or a little butter to grease the dish to prevent sticking.
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Oven Time: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it towards the end of the cooking time.
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Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the casserole to set properly and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Egg Casserole:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the egg mixture can lead to a tough casserole. Gently stir until the ingredients are just combined.
- Customize it: Feel free to add other vegetables, meats, or cheeses to customize your casserole. Mushrooms, spinach, and different types of cheese all work wonderfully.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Dietary Variations: For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy milk alternative. Ensure all other ingredients are also dairy-free if required.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 15-20 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams
This delicious and easy egg casserole recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. It’s a versatile dish that allows for endless customization, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade cooking with this simple yet satisfying dish.