Sometimes, simple is best! This Easy Cheesy Broccoli Egg Bake is a fantastic way to transform broccoli florets into a delicious and satisfying breakfast in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you don’t have a lot of time to cook, but still want a nutritious and protein-packed meal. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables!
Ingredients:
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves (optional)
- 6 eggs
- ½ cup (125ml) heavy cream (or milk)
- 70g softened cream cheese
- 50g shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
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Prep the Broccoli: Wash and cut the broccoli head into bite-sized florets.
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Melt the Butter: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium heat.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and celery to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
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Incorporate the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pan with the softened vegetables. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp but not mushy.
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Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped basil (if using) to the pan. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly and release their juices. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Whisk the Eggs and Cream: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and cream (or milk) until well combined.
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Prepare the Baking Dish (Optional): If not using an oven-safe pan, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
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Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked vegetables evenly in the prepared baking dish (or skillet if oven-safe).
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Make the Cheese Layer: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to form a spreadable mixture. Spread this cheese mixture evenly over the vegetables.
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Pour the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the whisked egg and cream mixture over the vegetables and cheese layer.
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Bake (if using a non-oven-safe pan): If using a regular skillet, place the pan on the stovetop over medium heat and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom starts to set. Then, transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is slightly golden brown.
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Serve and Enjoy! Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a slice of whole-wheat toast or a side of fruit.
More Information:
- Cooking Time: This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook, depending on whether you use an oven-safe pan or not.
- Serving Size: This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.
- Dietary Variations:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly.
- Lower-Fat: Substitute low-fat cream cheese and shredded cheese for a lighter option.
Tips:
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Chopped red bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
- To add a bit of spice, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the casserole before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Conclusion:
This Easy Cheesy Broccoli Egg Bake is a fantastic way to start your day with a healthy and protein-packed breakfast. It’s quick, easy to customize, and perfect for busy mornings. So ditch the sugary cereals and greasy breakfast options, and whip up this delicious and satisfying casserole for a nutritious start to your day!