Healthy Breakfast Casserole
A nutrient-packed, protein-rich breakfast casserole that's perfect for weight management without sacrificing flavor. At just 185 calories per serving, this casserole contains 65% fewer calories than traditional recipes while delivering 24g of protein to keep you satisfied throughout the day.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 45 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 185 kcal
9x13-inch Baking Dish
Large non-stick skillet
Mixing Bowl
- 12 large egg whites or 2 cups liquid egg whites
- 4 whole eggs
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk or regular milk
- 1 pound lean turkey breakfast sausage casings removed
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach roughly chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
- cooking spray
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey sausage, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat once the meat is no longer pink (approximately 5-7 minutes).
Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the same skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened and begin to caramelize, about 5-6 minutes. Add garlic and spinach during the last minute, cooking just until the spinach wilts.
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg whites, whole eggs, and almond milk until well combined. Stir in the dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Spread the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Dot the cottage cheese in small spoonfuls over the meat and vegetables.
Pour the egg mixture over the ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring everything is evenly covered. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Insert a knife into the center – it should come out clean when the casserole is fully cooked.
Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into portions and serving.
Storing Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Individual portions can be frozen for up to 3 months - wrap in parchment paper, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Make-Ahead: You can assemble this casserole the night before, cover and refrigerate, then bake in the morning – just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Substitutions:
- Replace turkey sausage with crumbled tempeh for a plant-based option
- Swap almond milk with any unsweetened plant milk or skim milk
- Use egg substitute instead of whole eggs for further calorie reduction
- Try different vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or kale based on seasonal availability
Calories: 185kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 24gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 410mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
Keyword Healthy Breakfast, Low Calorie Breakfast Casserole, Protein Breakfast, Meal Prep Breakfast