Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite breakfast dish: the Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole! This delightful casserole is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with nutrition and flavor that makes my mornings so much brighter. I remember the first time I made it for a brunch with friends; the kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of sautéed broccoli and melted cheddar. Everyone couldn’t help but dive in for seconds! It’s super easy to whip up, and I love how the eggs, cheese, and veggies come together to create a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for lazy weekend mornings or busy weekdays. Seriously, you’ve got to try it!
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole
- 6 large eggs – These are the star of the show, providing that fluffy base we all love.
- 1 cup milk – Whole milk works wonders for creaminess, but feel free to use what you have on hand!
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen, it’s up to you! Just make sure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – I always go for sharp cheddar for that extra zing, but any melty cheese will do!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Just enough to bring out all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A little kick goes a long way in this casserole!
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – For that subtle, savory depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a hint of sweetness and flavor; it’s a game-changer!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This is what you’ll use to sauté the broccoli, giving it a lovely, tender texture.
How to Prepare Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your casserole bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden top. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this!
Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli
Now, grab a skillet and heat up that tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in your broccoli florets. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant. Yum! The smell of sautéing broccoli is just heavenly, and it’s going to make the whole dish pop with flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
While your broccoli is getting all nice and tender, let’s whip up that egg mixture. In a large bowl, crack those 6 large eggs and pour in 1 cup of milk. Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Now, whisk it all together until it’s smooth and well combined. It should be a lovely, creamy mixture that’s begging for those veggies!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Time to bring it all together! Stir in the sautéed broccoli and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Make sure everything is evenly coated and mixed well. This is where the magic happens, and I can almost taste it already!
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Now, pour your glorious mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and then slide it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is a beautiful golden color. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Just heavenly!
Step 6: Serve the Casserole
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly before slicing it into squares. This step is important—trust me, you don’t want to burn your tongue on that cheesy goodness! Serve it warm, and watch everyone’s eyes light up with joy. Enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings.
- Nutritious, packed with protein from eggs and vitamins from broccoli.
- Deliciously cheesy with the sharp flavor of cheddar, you won’t be able to resist!
- Versatile; great for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
- Can be made ahead of time and reheated, so it’s ready whenever you are.
- Customizable! Add your favorite ingredients like bacon, ham, or extra veggies.
- One dish means easy cleanup—just serve and enjoy with minimal fuss!
Tips for Success with Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole
To make sure your Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my tried-and-true tips that I always rely on:
- Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese. Fresh veggies not only taste better but also add a wonderful vibrant color to your dish!
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: When sautéing, keep an eye on the broccoli! You want it tender but still slightly crisp. Overcooking can lead to mushy broccoli, and we want that lovely texture to shine through!
- Room Temperature Eggs and Milk: For the best results, let your eggs and milk sit out for a bit before mixing. This helps them blend more smoothly into the casserole.
- Use a Whisk: When combining your egg mixture, a whisk is your best friend! It helps incorporate air, making the casserole light and fluffy.
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is a little different, so check your casserole a few minutes before the timer goes off. You want it set in the middle, but not overbaked! A slight jiggle is okay as it will continue to cook after you take it out.
- Add Flavor Boosters: Feel free to experiment! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can give your casserole a delightful kick!
- Let It Rest: After baking, let your casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will help it set up nicely and make serving much easier.
With these tips, you’ll be set up for success! Each time I make this casserole, I tweak it just a bit, and it always turns out delicious. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole. These numbers can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use, but they give you a good idea of what you’re working with. Just keep in mind that these are estimates, so feel free to adjust based on your own preferences or dietary needs!
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 18g
With a nice balance of protein from the eggs and fiber from the broccoli, this casserole is not only tasty but also a great way to fuel your day. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to something nutritious!
FAQ about Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole
Can I use a different vegetable instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! While broccoli is a classic choice, feel free to swap it out for your favorite veggies. Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini work wonderfully in this casserole. Just remember to sauté them first to get that lovely flavor!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), simply let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or oven, and you’re good to go!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! This casserole is a lifesaver for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before, cover it, and pop it in the fridge. Just bake it in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to go!
What can I add for extra flavor?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can toss in some cooked bacon or sausage for a meaty twist, or sprinkle in some herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh kick. A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can also spice things up!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is! Since there are no breadcrumbs or flour in this recipe, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any additional ingredients you might use to keep it safe for gluten-free diets. Enjoy without worry!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole
Alright, let’s talk about what to do with those delicious leftovers! If you happen to have some Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole left (which is always a good problem to have), here’s how to store it properly to keep that flavor and texture intact.
First, let the casserole cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cool, you can slice it up into individual portions, which makes reheating super easy. Place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days—perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you have a couple of options for reheating. If you’re in a hurry, pop a slice in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it’s heated through. Just keep an eye on it so you don’t overcook it—nobody wants a rubbery egg!
If you prefer a crispier texture (and who doesn’t?), I recommend reheating it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the slice on a baking sheet, and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. It’ll come out just as delightful as when you first made it!
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor every bite of your Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole, whether it’s day one or day three. Enjoy!
Print
Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole: 6 Steps to Pure Joy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and nutritious broccoli cheddar egg casserole perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add broccoli and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Stir in sautéed broccoli and cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until set and golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli.
- Feel free to add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Egg Casserole, Breakfast Casserole, Egg Casserole