High-Protein Loaded Hash Browns Breakfast Casserole (Print Version)
Start your day strong with this high-protein loaded hash browns breakfast casserole. Packed with savory ingredients, it's perfect for a hearty morning meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 40 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Crispy Foundation
01 -
30 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and squeezed dry
02 -
2 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1/2 tsp sea salt
04 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ High-Protein Core
05 -
12 large eggs
06 -
1 lb lean breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), cooked and crumbled
07 -
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
08 -
1/2 cup 2% milk
→ Savory Veggies & Cheesy Goodness
09 -
1/2 cup diced yellow onion
10 -
1 cup diced red bell pepper
11 -
2 cups packed baby spinach
12 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
13 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Aromatic Seasoning & Garnish
14 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
15 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
16 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
17 -
2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine 30 oz thawed and squeezed dry frozen shredded hash browns with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Press evenly into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, forming the crispy base for your High-Protein Loaded Hash Browns Breakfast Casserole.
02 -
In a large skillet, cook 1 lb lean breakfast sausage until crumbled and browned. Drain excess fat. Add 1/2 cup diced yellow onion, 1 cup diced red bell pepper, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Sauté until softened, then stir in 2 cups packed baby spinach until wilted.
03 -
In a separate large bowl, whisk together 12 large eggs, 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, 1/2 cup 2% milk, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. This forms the protein-rich core for your High-Protein Loaded Hash Browns Breakfast Casserole.
04 -
Spread the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture evenly over the hash brown base in the baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the sausage and veggies. Pour the whisked egg mixture evenly over everything.
05 -
Bake the High-Protein Loaded Hash Browns Breakfast Casserole for 30 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top, and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
06 -
Let the High-Protein Loaded Hash Browns Breakfast Casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the casserole to set properly and makes for cleaner slices. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh chopped chives before enjoying.
# Notes:
01 -
Make Ahead Tip: Assemble the entire casserole (without baking) the night before. Cover and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the bake time if needed.
02 -
Customization: Feel free to swap out the red bell pepper and spinach for other veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or kale. You can also use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend.
03 -
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
04 -
Serving Suggestion: This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra protein.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Large mixing bowl
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Cutting board
06 -
Chef's knife
07 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 438 kcal
Total Fat: 24 g
Total Carbohydrate: 24 g
Protein: 31 g