High Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake: Your Ultimate Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole

Kickstart your mornings with a satisfying and nutritious meal that requires minimal effort during the busy week! This incredibly rich and tender High Protein Egg Bake with Cottage Cheese is designed to be your go-to make-ahead breakfast, perfectly setting you up for success. Each generous serving is a powerhouse of flavor and essential nutrients, boasting a remarkable 20 grams of protein. Imagine waking up to a hearty slice of this casserole, brimming with savory breakfast sausage, vibrant bell peppers, earthy mushrooms, and a blend of delicious cheeses. It’s a wholesome, filling, and utterly delicious way to ensure you stay energized and focused throughout your day.

A perfectly portioned slice of high protein egg bake with cottage cheese, showcased on a white plate, with the full casserole dish visible in the soft-focus background, ready for serving.

Why This High Protein Egg Bake Will Be Your New Favorite Breakfast

This isn’t just another egg casserole; it’s a strategic solution for delicious, healthy eating. Here’s why this recipe stands out as a must-try for anyone looking to optimize their breakfast routine:

Effortless Meal Prep Champion: Say goodbye to frantic morning cooking! This recipe yields 8 substantial servings, making it an ideal candidate for weekly meal preparation. Spend a little time in the kitchen on a Sunday, and you’ll have delicious, protein-packed breakfasts ready to go for the entire week. Simply warm a portion gently in the microwave each morning, and you’re set. It’s convenience without compromise.
Unbeatable Protein Power (20g+ per serving!): With a massive 20g of protein per serving, this egg bake is a fantastic way to fuel your body and keep hunger at bay. The high protein content, largely amplified by the inclusion of cottage cheese, contributes to sustained energy levels, supports muscle maintenance, and helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing the urge for mid-morning snacking. It’s a smart choice for active lifestyles or anyone aiming to increase their protein intake.
Rich, Bold Flavors & Creamy Texture: This egg bake is far from bland. The combination of savory breakfast sausage, sweet bell peppers, umami-rich mushrooms, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a symphony of bold flavors and varied textures. But the real secret weapon for its tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality is the cottage cheese. It seamlessly blends into the egg mixture, adding incredible creaminess and moisture without an overpowering “cottage cheese” taste, making every bite a delight.
Naturally Gluten-Free & Dietary Friendly: For those managing dietary restrictions, this high protein egg bake is a perfect fit, being happily gluten-free. Just ensure that your choice of bulk breakfast sausage doesn’t contain any hidden gluten-containing additives – always check the ingredient label. Its simple, whole-food ingredients also make it easily adaptable for various dietary needs, offering a wholesome option for almost everyone.

Chef’s Pro Tips for the Best High Protein Egg Bake

Achieving the perfect egg bake is simpler than you think with these expert insights and preparation techniques. Follow these tips to elevate your breakfast casserole from good to absolutely outstanding:

Cool Your Cooked Fillings: After cooking your sausage and sautéing your vegetables, it’s crucial to let them cool slightly before adding them to the egg mixture. Introducing hot ingredients into raw eggs can cause them to cook prematurely, leading to a lumpy or uneven texture in your finished bake. Patience here ensures a perfectly uniform and tender casserole.
Embrace the Immersion Blender for Smoothness: The cottage cheese is key to this recipe’s amazing texture and protein boost. For a truly smooth, creamy consistency where the cottage cheese curds completely disappear, an immersion blender (or a regular blender) is your best friend. It thoroughly incorporates the cottage cheese into the egg mixture, resulting in an incredibly tender and moist bake without any grainy texture. Don’t skip this step for that signature tenderness!
Unleash Your Creativity with Fillings: While sausage, mushrooms, and bell pepper form a classic and delicious foundation, this egg bake is incredibly versatile. Think of it as a blank canvas, much like a quiche, frittata, or omelette, allowing you to easily adapt it to whatever ingredients you have on hand. It’s perfect for clearing out your refrigerator! Consider adding:
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard (sautéed first to reduce moisture).
- Other Vegetables: Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, or even diced sweet potatoes (partially cooked).
- Different Proteins: Diced ham, cooked bacon bits, shredded chicken, or even plant-based sausage crumbles.
- Alternative Cheeses: Mozzarella, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
Prevent Over-Browning: If you notice the top of your egg bake browning too quickly during the last 10-15 minutes of baking, simply cover the casserole dish loosely with aluminum foil. This protects the top layer while allowing the inside to finish cooking through perfectly.
The Importance of Cooling Time: While tempting to dig in immediately, allowing the egg bake to cool for at least 10 minutes after baking is crucial. This cooling period allows the eggs to set completely, ensuring clean, firm slices that hold their shape beautifully.
Serving Suggestions Beyond Basic: A slice of this egg bake is delicious on its own, especially with a few shakes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. However, to round out your breakfast, consider pairing it with:
- Fresh fruit salad or sliced avocado.
- A vibrant green side salad for added nutrients.
- A protein-packed smoothie for an extra boost.
- Whole-grain toast or a light biscuit.

A close-up, top-down view of the high protein egg bake, highlighting the golden-brown melted cheese topping and the colorful mix of sausage and vegetables beneath, straight from the oven.

Ingredients Deep Dive: Crafting Your Perfect Egg Bake

Each ingredient in this high protein egg bake plays a vital role in creating its incredible flavor and texture. Understanding their purpose can help you customize the recipe to your liking or make smart substitutions.

Eggs: The foundational binder and a primary source of protein. Using a dozen large eggs ensures a substantial, fluffy base for the casserole.
Bulk Breakfast Sausage: Provides a savory, meaty depth that perfectly complements the eggs and cheese. While the recipe calls for bulk sausage, you can easily use ground turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Cottage Cheese: This is the secret ingredient for both protein and an unbelievably tender texture. When blended into the egg mixture, it creates a custardy consistency and adds a significant protein boost without imparting a strong “cottage cheese” flavor. You can use full-fat or low-fat varieties.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Contributes a rich, tangy flavor and helps form a delicious golden crust. Feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a mild Colby.
Onion & Garlic: Essential aromatics that build the savory flavor base of the bake. Dicing the onion small ensures it blends seamlessly into the casserole.
Mushrooms: Add an earthy, umami depth and a pleasant texture. Any variety of mushroom will work; cremini or white button mushrooms are commonly used.
Red Bell Pepper: Offers a touch of sweetness, vibrant color, and a crisp-tender bite. Other bell pepper colors can be used interchangeably.
Salt & Black Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that enhance all the other flavors. Adjust to your personal preference.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This High Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is truly a meal prep dream. Preparing it in advance makes healthy eating incredibly convenient throughout your busy week.

Refrigeration: Once baked and fully cooled, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also cut it into individual servings and store them in airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for weekday breakfasts.
Freezing for Longer Storage: For extended meal prep, this egg bake freezes beautifully.
- Whole Casserole: Once completely cooled, wrap the entire casserole (or remaining portion) tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil.
- Individual Servings: For ultimate convenience, cut the cooled bake into individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This allows you to grab and reheat just what you need.
Frozen egg bake can be stored for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results, or reheat directly from frozen using a slightly longer cooking time.
Reheating Instructions:
- Microwave: For individual slices, place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Oven: For larger portions or the whole casserole, cover loosely with foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Air Fryer: Individual slices can be reheated in an air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for about 5-8 minutes for a slightly crispy edge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this egg bake vegetarian?: Absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the breakfast sausage. You can add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, or incorporate a plant-based sausage substitute to maintain a similar savory flavor and texture profile.
What if I don’t have an immersion blender?: A regular blender works perfectly! Just transfer the eggs, cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to a standard blender and blend until completely smooth. Pour the mixture back into a bowl before adding the cooked sausage and vegetables.
Can I use different types of cheese?: Yes, feel free to get creative with your cheese choices! While sharp cheddar offers a classic flavor, you could try Gruyere for a nutty taste, Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a sharper finish. A blend of cheeses can also add complexity.
How can I make this egg bake spicier?: To add a kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the onions and bell peppers during sautéing. You could also use a spicy breakfast sausage or serve with a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?: With only 7g total carbs and 6g net carbs per serving, this High Protein Egg Bake is very low in carbohydrates and can fit into many keto or low-carb eating plans. Always verify nutritional information with your specific ingredients to ensure it aligns with your dietary goals.

More Delicious Breakfast Ideas You’ll Love

Looking for more ways to power up your mornings with healthy, easy, and flavorful breakfasts? Explore these other fantastic recipes:

High Protein Cottage Cheese Blueberry Muffins: Sweet, fluffy, and packed with protein for a guilt-free treat.
High Protein Cottage Cheese Scrambled Eggs: A simple yet powerful twist on classic scrambled eggs, adding extra protein and creaminess.
Keto Breakfast Casserole with Sausage: Another fantastic low-carb casserole option for savory breakfast lovers.
Country Omelette Recipe with Bacon and Potatoes: A hearty and comforting omelette featuring classic country flavors.
10-minute Instant Pot Oatmeal: Quick and convenient oatmeal for a warm and comforting start to your day.
Healthy Omelette with Avocado: A fresh and healthy omelette loaded with good fats and nutrients.

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High Protein Egg Bake with Cottage Cheese

Prep: 15 minutes

Cook: 1 hour 5 minutes

Cooling Time: 10 minutes

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Cheryl Malik, the recipe author Cheryl Malik

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Ingredients

▢ 12 eggs
▢ 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage (or turkey sausage for a lighter option)
▢ 16 ounces cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
▢ 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
▢ ½ onion diced small
▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
▢ 1 cup mushrooms chopped (cremini or white button recommended)
▢ 1 red bell pepper diced small
▢ ½ teaspoon salt
▢ ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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Equipment

9 x 13 inch casserole dish
immersion blender or regular blender
Large skillet or frying pan
Large mixing bowl

Instructions

Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil or your preferred cooking oil in a large, sturdy skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the bulk breakfast sausage (or turkey sausage for a leaner option) to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Continue to cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the sausage is thoroughly cooked through and no longer shows any pink. Once cooked, transfer the browned sausage to a separate plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat, then set aside to cool slightly.
Using the same skillet (add a touch more oil if needed), add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers. Sauté these vegetables over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and slightly softened. Add the chopped mushrooms during the last 2-3 minutes of sautéing until they have released their moisture. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the vegetable mixture to cool completely alongside the sausage. This step is important to prevent the eggs from cooking too quickly when combined.
While the sausage and vegetable mixture cools, prepare your creamy egg base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 12 eggs, 16 ounces of cottage cheese, 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and the measured salt and black pepper. To achieve an incredibly smooth and tender egg bake, blend these ingredients thoroughly using an immersion blender directly in the bowl, or transfer them to a regular blender and process until completely smooth and the cottage cheese curds are no longer visible.
Once the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture has cooled, add it directly to the blended egg and cottage cheese mixture. Stir everything gently but thoroughly with a spatula or spoon until all the savory ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the rich egg base.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the combined egg, sausage, and vegetable mixture into a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Ensure your dish is nonstick, or lightly spray it with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Spread the mixture evenly across the dish, then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.
Bake the egg bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40-50 minutes. The casserole is ready when the center is firm and set, and the edges are golden brown. You can gently jiggle the dish to check for firmness; there should be no liquid movement in the middle. If the top begins to brown excessively before the center is set, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting into even slices. This resting time is essential for the egg bake to fully set, ensuring clean cuts and maintaining its perfect structure and tenderness. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, protein-packed breakfast!

Notes

Breakfast sausage, mushrooms, and bell pepper are a classic breakfast combination, but this recipe is incredibly flexible. Pretty much any ingredient that would work well in a quiche, frittata, or omelette will work beautifully in this egg bake – it’s also a perfect opportunity for clearing out your refrigerator and using up leftover veggies!

If you’re in a hurry, slices of this egg bake are delicious and satisfying by themselves (and even better perked up with a few shakes of your favorite hot sauce!). However, for a more substantial meal, you could also add fresh fruit, a green salad, or a protein-rich smoothie on the side if you prefer a bigger breakfast.

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the breakfast sausage and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein alternative.

Nutrition Information

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.