Thanksgiving Protein Egg Casserole is the perfect blend of flavors and nutrition, making it an ideal dish for the holiday season or any time you need a high-protein meal. Packed with protein-rich ingredients such as eggs, cottage cheese, and chicken sausage, this casserole not only satisfies your taste buds but also fuels your body with essential nutrients. It’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed warm or as a make-ahead breakfast option. Whether you’re hosting guests or feeding your family, this dish checks all the boxes for deliciousness and healthiness.
Why make this Thanksgiving Protein Egg Casserole recipe
- Protein-rich: With eggs, chicken sausage, and cottage cheese, this dish is packed with high-quality protein.
- Quick prep: You can have this casserole ready for the oven in just a few minutes.
- Meal-prep friendly: It stores well and is perfect for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
- Low-carb: This dish is ideal if you’re looking to manage your carb intake while still enjoying a hearty meal.
- Kid-approved: The cheesy, flavorful ingredients make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
"It was a big hit at our Thanksgiving brunch! Everyone loved it!" – Sarah T.
How to make Thanksgiving Protein Egg Casserole
Making the Thanksgiving Protein Egg Casserole is simple and requires minimal kitchen tools, making it perfect for busy mornings or festive gatherings. You’ll need a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a greased casserole dish for baking. If you love fast protein breakfasts, try our Cottage Cheese Pancakes as well for a delightful combo.
Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 2 servings egg whites (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1 chicken sausage link, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to create a delightful Thanksgiving Protein Egg Casserole that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Feel free to get creative with substitutions; for example, you can swap the chicken sausage for turkey sausage or add other vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini.
Directions
- Preheat: the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and egg whites until well combined.
- Stir: In the cottage cheese, sliced chicken sausage, spinach, red bell pepper, red onion, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour: the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake: in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
- Finish: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot or cold, and store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to serve Thanksgiving Protein Egg Casserole
Serve this Thanksgiving Protein Egg Casserole warm from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra pop of flavor. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or some roasted vegetables. This dish also makes for a great brunch centerpiece during holiday gatherings, providing a nutritious option that everyone will enjoy.
How to store
For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to a month; simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
For safe storage timing, see USDA FoodData Central.
Tips to make
- Grease the dish well: This helps prevent sticking and makes for easier cleanup.
- Add flavor: If you want a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mix.
- Customize vegetables: Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite veggies to make the dish your own.
Variations
- Vegetarian: For a meatless option, omit the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms or artichoke hearts.
- Cheesy: Top the casserole with shredded cheese before baking for a melty finish.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as dill or thyme, for a unique flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I meal prep Thanksgiving Protein Egg Casserole?
Yes, Thanksgiving Protein Egg Casserole keeps well for 3–4 days in the fridge; store in an airtight container.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freeze portions for up to a month; thaw overnight, then reheat gently.
What substitutions work best?
You can swap chicken sausage for turkey or a plant-based sausage, and you can add other vegetables suitable to your taste, adjusting seasonings as necessary.
For nutrition insights, visit Healthline.
Thanksgiving Protein Egg Casserole is a delectable way to add flavor and nutrition to your meal planning. If you enjoy this recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments and let others know how it turned out for you!
Thanksgiving Protein Egg Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 whole eggs
- 1/2 cup egg whites (about 2 servings)
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1 link chicken sausage, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- To taste Salt & pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and egg whites until well combined.
- Stir in the cottage cheese, sliced chicken sausage, spinach, red bell pepper, red onion, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot or cold.