High Protein Cottage Cheese Turkey Sausage Casserole (Print Version)
High Protein Cottage Cheese Turkey Sausage Casserole is a satisfying, healthy meal. Easy to prepare, packed with flavor and nutrients for any time of day.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free, Diabetic-Friendly
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Protein Core
01 -
1 lb lean ground turkey sausage
02 -
24 oz low-fat cottage cheese (1% or 2%)
03 -
4 large eggs
→ Vibrant Veggies & Aromatics
04 -
1 tbsp olive oil
05 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
06 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1 red bell pepper, diced
08 -
5 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
09 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
→ The Cheesy Crown & Seasoning
10 -
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
11 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
12 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. This prepares your dish for the delicious High Protein Cottage Cheese Turkey Sausage Casserole, ensuring it doesn't stick.
02 -
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground turkey sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
03 -
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté 1 medium yellow onion (diced) and 1 red bell pepper (diced) for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add 2 cloves garlic (minced) and 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, cooking for 1 minute more until fragrant. Stir in 5 oz fresh spinach (roughly chopped) until wilted.
04 -
In a separate large bowl, whisk together 24 oz low-fat cottage cheese, 4 large eggs, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. This forms the creamy, protein-rich base for your casserole.
05 -
Add the sautéed vegetable mixture from the skillet to the bowl with the cooked turkey sausage. Then, pour the cottage cheese and egg mixture over the sausage and vegetables. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
06 -
Pour the entire combined mixture into the prepared 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese over the top. This step completes the assembly of your High Protein Cottage Cheese Turkey Sausage Casserole.
07 -
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for a perfectly cooked High Protein Cottage Cheese Turkey Sausage Casserole.
08 -
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the casserole to set further, making it easier to portion and ensuring a delicious experience for your High Protein Cottage Cheese Turkey Sausage Casserole.
# Notes:
01 -
Substitution Tip: Feel free to swap red bell pepper for green or yellow, or add other quick-cooking veggies like mushrooms or zucchini. Ensure they are diced small.
02 -
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
03 -
Serving Suggestion: Serve this hearty casserole with a simple side salad or a slice of whole-grain toast for a complete and satisfying meal.
04 -
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Large mixing bowl
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Spatula
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 345 kcal
Total Fat: 18 g
Total Carbohydrate: 10 g
Protein: 36 g