This Cottage Cheese Turkey Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a yummy way to start your day! It’s packed with fluffy eggs, delicious turkey sausage, and creamy cottage cheese for a satisfying breakfast.
I love how easy it is to make, and it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Just bake it up and enjoy a tasty breakfast that keeps you full. Don’t forget the hot sauce for some extra zing! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Sausage: This gives the casserole its meaty kick. If you want a healthier spin, try chicken sausage or even a plant-based sausage. Both options work well and keep the flavors tasty!
Cottage Cheese: A crucial ingredient for creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, consider using silken tofu blended smooth or a non-dairy yogurt to create a similar texture.
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. However, you can swap it with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste. Just keep the total cheese amount about the same!
Green Onions: These add freshness. If you don’t have them, chives make a great substitute. They’re milder but still provide that nice oniony bite!
Eggs: Eggs are the base of the casserole. For a vegan version, you can use flax eggs or a chickpea flour mixture to bind everything together.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Getting a firm yet fluffy texture requires attention to baking time and temperature. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat the oven thoroughly; an oven that’s too cool can lead to undercooked eggs.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center. It should come out clean, and the edges will be slightly golden.
- If the top browns too quickly, you can gently cover it with foil to prevent burning.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it firm up and makes cutting easier.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious and perfectly set breakfast casserole every time!
Cottage Cheese Turkey Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey sausage
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or butter, for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful breakfast casserole will take approximately 15 minutes for preparation and about 35-40 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of around 55-60 minutes. Perfect for a hearty breakfast ready to serve family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×9-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This helps prevent the casserole from sticking and makes serving easier!
2. Cook the Turkey Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground turkey sausage. Cook it until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once ready, drain any excess fat and set it aside.
3. Mix the Egg and Cheese Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and cottage cheese. Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Next, stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, along with the cooked turkey sausage, finely chopped green onions, and diced red bell pepper. Make sure everything is evenly incorporated!
5. Pour and Top:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Take the remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle it generously on top to create a delicious, cheesy crust.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and the top has turned a lovely golden brown.
7. Let it Cool:
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting it into squares. This makes serving a breeze and helps the layers set nicely.
8. Garnish and Serve:
For a pop of color and flavor, garnish with extra chopped green onions if you like. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty breakfast with family or friends!
Enjoy your flavorful and filling Cottage Cheese Turkey Sausage Breakfast Casserole!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey sausage with chicken sausage or pork sausage if you prefer. If you want a vegetarian option, try using plant-based sausage or even sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free alternative!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Simply assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it the next morning, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure to sauté them beforehand to remove any excess moisture, so they don’t make the casserole soggy.
