High-Protein Breakfast Casserole

If youโ€™re searching for a nutritious, protein-packed breakfast thatโ€™s both delicious and easy to prepare, look no further! This High-Protein Breakfast Casserole is loaded with fresh vegetables, turkey ham, and mozzarella cheese, all baked together with eggs for a filling, energizing meal. Itโ€™s a great way to start your day or fuel up after a workout, and itโ€™s also perfect for meal prep, as you can easily refrigerate or freeze leftovers for a quick breakfast during the week. With minimal prep time and a short cooking duration, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to eat healthy without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 ounce spinach, chopped
  • 1 ounce turkey ham, diced
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 egg white
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 ounce low-fat mozzarella cheese, grated

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Lightly grease a small baking dish or line it with non-stick spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.

2. Prepare the Ingredients:

  • Dice the red bell pepper into small cubes. This will add a nice crunch and a sweet, tangy flavor to the casserole.
  • Chop the spinach into small pieces. Fresh spinach will add color and boost the nutrient content of the casserole.
  • Dice the turkey ham into bite-sized pieces. Turkey ham is a great source of lean protein.
  • Grate the mozzarella cheese if itโ€™s not already pre-grated. Low-fat mozzarella adds a creamy, cheesy flavor while keeping the fat content lower.

3. Mix the Eggs:

  • In a medium-sized mixing bowl, crack the 2 whole eggs and add 1 egg white.
  • Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Whisk the eggs together until well combined, ensuring a fluffy texture once baked.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

  • In your greased baking dish, spread the diced red bell pepper, chopped spinach, and diced turkey ham evenly across the bottom.
  • Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and ham, making sure itโ€™s evenly distributed to bind all the ingredients together.
  • Finally, sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a gooey, cheesy finish.

5. Bake:

  • Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

6. Serve:

  • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into individual portions.
  • Serve warm and enjoy your high-protein breakfast casserole, either as a standalone dish or paired with a side of toast or a fresh fruit salad.

Cooking Tips:

  • Meal Prep Tip: This casserole is great for meal prep. You can bake it in advance, refrigerate it, and simply reheat a portion in the microwave when youโ€™re ready to eat. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what you have available. Try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or even broccoli for extra texture and flavor.
  • Add Spices: For added depth of flavor, you can mix in other spices like smoked paprika or a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle kick.
  • Protein Boost: You can add more turkey ham or substitute with diced chicken breast for even more protein.

Storage:

  • Refrigeration: Once the casserole has cooled, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 1 minute or until warmed through.
  • Freezing: To freeze, slice the casserole into portions, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, youโ€™ll have a quick and healthy breakfast ready to go. Frozen portions can be reheated in the microwave, straight from the freezer, for about 2-3 minutes.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Total Fat: 17g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Calories: 280 kcal

FAQs:

1. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?

  • Absolutely! This recipe is highly customizable. You can add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, kale, or even roasted sweet potatoes for extra flavor, texture, and nutrients.

2. What can I use instead of turkey ham?

  • You can substitute the turkey ham with cooked bacon, chicken sausage, or even ground turkey if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, consider adding tofu or more veggies to the filling.

3. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

  • Simply replace the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative, and youโ€™re all set! You can also omit the cheese entirely and still enjoy a delicious casserole.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

  • Yes! You can bake the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving.

5. Whatโ€™s the best way to reheat the casserole?

  • The easiest way to reheat your casserole is by microwaving individual slices for about 1 minute or until heated through. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can reheat it in the oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion:

This High-Protein Breakfast Casserole is the perfect nutritious start to your day. Itโ€™s packed with protein from the eggs and turkey ham and provides fiber and vitamins from the red bell pepper and spinach. Whether youโ€™re meal prepping for a busy week or whipping up something quick and delicious for breakfast, this recipe is a go-to favorite. With its easy assembly, minimal ingredients, and customizable nature, itโ€™s an ideal dish for anyone looking for a healthy, satisfying meal. Enjoy the delicious flavors and fuel up with a protein-rich, low-carb breakfast that will keep you energized all morning!


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