Breakfast is an important meal of the day. It helps to kick-start your metabolism and gives you energy. The High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake is a perfect choice for breakfast. It is healthy, filling, and easy to make. It combines vegetables and protein, making it a nutritious meal. This recipe is quick to prepare and can be made in advance. It is also flexible, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables. Enjoy it with your morning coffee or as a grab-and-go meal.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe for many reasons. First, it is packed with protein. The combination of egg whites, whole eggs, cottage cheese, and cheddar cheese provides a great protein boost to start your day. Second, it is filled with fresh vegetables. You get vitamins and minerals from the bell peppers, spinach, and broccoli. Third, this breakfast bake is very simple to make. You can mix the ingredients in one bowl and bake them. Fourth, it is very versatile. You can change the vegetables based on what you like or what you have at home. Finally, this breakfast bake is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and eat it throughout the week.
HOW TO MAKE High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake
Making this breakfast bake is easy and straightforward. Just follow these simple steps to create a delicious and healthy meal.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make the High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake, you will need a few simple items. Here is a list of the equipment you will need:
- A 9×13-inch baking dish
- A large mixing bowl
- A whisk
- A skillet
- A spatula or wooden spoon
- An oven
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this breakfast bake, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup egg whites
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Now let’s go through the step-by-step instructions to make the High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake.
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it is hot enough when you are ready to bake.
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help prevent the bake from sticking.
- Mix the eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of egg whites and 4 large eggs until they are well combined. This creates a smooth base for your bake.
- Add the cheese: Stir in 1 cup of cottage cheese and 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. This adds flavor and creaminess.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or use cooking spray). Add the diced red bell pepper, diced green bell pepper, chopped onion, and broccoli florets to the skillet. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they are slightly softened.
- Add spinach: Now, add 1 cup of chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and bright green.
- Combine everything: Add the sautéed vegetables into the egg mixture. Season with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
- Pour into the baking dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Put the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the bake is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Once baked, allow it to cool for a few minutes before cutting it into slices. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious breakfast bake!
HOW TO SERVE High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake
You can serve this High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake warm. It is great on its own, but you can also add a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt. It makes a perfect hearty breakfast or brunch dish. This bake is also perfect for meal prep, as you can easily reheat it during the week. Just warm up a slice or two in the microwave for a quick breakfast.
STORAGE & FREEZING : High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake
Storing your breakfast bake is easy. If you have leftovers, let it cool completely before storing it. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To freeze, slice the bake into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Here are some ideas on how to serve your High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake:
- Pair it with a slice of whole-grain toast.
- Serve with a dollop of salsa or hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Top it with avocado slices or diced tomatoes for freshness.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for a burst of color and taste.
VARIATIONS
There are many ways to change up the recipe to suit your taste. Here are some variations you can try:
- Different vegetables: Use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Zucchini, mushrooms, or kale can be good substitutes.
- Cheese options: Swap out the cheddar cheese for feta, mozzarella, or a dairy-free cheese.
- Add protein: For extra protein, mix in cooked sausage, ham, or diced chicken.
- Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Yes, you can use whole eggs. This will give the bake a richer flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and omit the cottage cheese or use a dairy-free option.
3. How do I know when the breakfast bake is done?
The bake is done when the center is set and the top is golden brown.
4. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day before. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the morning.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake
Making the High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake ahead of time is simple. Here are a few tips:
- Prepare ingredients the night before: Chop the vegetables and whisk the egg mixture in advance. Store them in the refrigerator overnight.
- Bake ahead: You can bake the dish the night before and let it cool. Store it in the fridge and reheat in the morning.
- Freeze portions: If you want to have a quick breakfast, freeze individual portions. They can be reheated easily in the microwave for a busy morning.
Try making the High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake today, and enjoy a nutritious and tasty start to your day!
High-Protein Vegetable Breakfast Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of egg whites and 4 large eggs until well combined.
- Stir in 1 cup of cottage cheese and 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese into the egg mixture.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced bell peppers, chopped onion, and broccoli florets. Sauté for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add 1 cup of chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the egg mixture. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the bake is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before cutting into slices.