This Baked Cheesy Egg Casserole is a protein-packed, savory delight perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Made with eggs, three types of cheese, and fresh green onions, this dish is hearty, fluffy, and full of flavor. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, requires just one mixing bowl, and bakes into a golden, cheesy perfection in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a weekend brunch, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a crowd-pleaser, this baked egg casserole delivers every time.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 9 servings (1 square per person)
Cuisine: American Comfort Food / High-Protein Breakfast
Ingredients
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6 large eggs
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1 cup cottage cheese
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1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
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½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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¼ cup all-purpose flour
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¼ cup melted butter
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ cup green onions, chopped
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Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×9-inch (or similarly sized) baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and to help develop a golden crust.
Whisk the eggs
In a large mixing bowl, crack all six eggs and whisk until light and fluffy. You want them well beaten so the casserole turns out airy and uniform.
Add the cheeses
Stir in the cottage cheese, grated cheddar, and grated Parmesan. This combination gives the casserole a rich, creamy texture and layers of cheesy flavor.
Incorporate dry ingredients
Sprinkle in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until smooth and fully incorporated—this step helps give the casserole some structure without making it heavy.
Mix in butter and green onions
Add the melted butter and fold in the chopped green onions. If you like a little spice, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until evenly distributed.
Pour and bake
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula so it cooks uniformly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden, and the center is fully set. You can test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
Garnish and serve
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (per serving – based on 9 servings)
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Calories: 210
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Protein: 14g
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Carbohydrates: 4g
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Fat: 15g
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Saturated Fat: 8g
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Fiber: 0.3g
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Sugar: 1g
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Sodium: 320mg
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Calcium: 20% DV
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Vitamin A: 12% DV
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The egg casserole is a classic American brunch dish, often seen at weekend breakfasts, potlucks, or holiday morning spreads. Traditionally made with eggs, cheese, and mix-ins like vegetables or meats, it became popular in the 1950s and 1960s as an easy, make-ahead option for feeding a crowd. Over time, variations have included everything from tater tots and sausage to spinach and feta.
This version modernizes the classic with cottage cheese, adding creaminess, protein, and a fluffier texture. Cheddar and Parmesan boost the savory flavor, while green onions add a touch of freshness.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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High in protein – ideal for a filling breakfast
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Low in carbs – naturally gluten-light (can be gluten-free with a swap)
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No complicated prep – just mix and bake
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Loaded with cheesy flavor – three kinds of cheese in every bite
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Great for meal prep – stores and reheats beautifully
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Perfect for gatherings – serve a crowd with minimal effort
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Customizable – swap in different cheeses, veggies, or herbs
Health Benefits
This cheesy egg casserole offers plenty of nutritional perks:
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Protein from eggs and cottage cheese helps maintain muscle and keeps you full
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Calcium from cheddar and Parmesan supports bone health
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B vitamins from eggs contribute to energy and brain function
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Green onions provide antioxidants and vitamin K
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Lower in carbs compared to traditional bread-based breakfasts
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Gluten-free friendly when made with GF flour
It’s a smart choice for those following high-protein, low-carb, or keto-style diets.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream
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Pair with fresh fruit like berries or melon for a balanced plate
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Add toast or roasted potatoes for a heartier brunch
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Drizzle with hot sauce or salsa for a spicy kick
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Serve with a green salad or sautéed greens for lunch or dinner
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Pack into lunchboxes as a protein-rich snack
Cooking Tips
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Don’t overbake – check around 25 minutes to avoid a dry texture
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Use dry cottage cheese for a firmer consistency (drain excess liquid if needed)
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Whisk eggs thoroughly for an even rise
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Grate your own cheese – pre-shredded varieties may contain anti-caking agents that affect melt
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Let it cool slightly before cutting to avoid crumbling
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Grease the dish well for easy removal and crispy edges
Variations to Try
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Spinach and Feta – replace cheddar with feta and add cooked spinach
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Broccoli Cheddar – add 1 cup of steamed, chopped broccoli to the batter
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Sausage and Bell Pepper – brown sausage and mix with diced red peppers
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Southwest Style – add cumin, black beans, corn, and jalapeños
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Gluten-Free Version – substitute almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend
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Mini Muffin Format – pour into greased muffin tins for individual servings
Conclusion
This Baked Cheesy Egg Casserole is a dish you’ll come back to again and again. It’s versatile, satisfying, and perfect for busy mornings or laid-back weekend brunches. With a creamy, cheesy interior and just the right amount of golden crust, it strikes a delicious balance between comfort food and healthy eating. It’s everything you want in a breakfast casserole—easy, delicious, and endlessly adaptable.
FAQ
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix everything, pour into the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just bake fresh in the morning.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. After baking and cooling, slice into squares, wrap, and freeze. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes. The texture will still be creamy, but slightly less rich.
4. Can I add meat to this?
Definitely. Cooked bacon, sausage, or diced ham all work great.
5. How can I make it gluten-free?
Substitute the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour or almond flour.
6. Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Swiss, mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack are all tasty options.
7. What if I don’t have green onions?
You can use finely chopped regular onions, chives, or even sautéed leeks.
8. How long will leftovers last?
Stored in the fridge in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for 4–5 days.
9. Can I cook this in a muffin tin?
Yes, just reduce baking time to about 15–18 minutes and grease the tin well.
10. Can I make this without flour?
Yes, but it will be slightly less structured—great for a crustless frittata feel.