Are you ready to impress your family or guests with a delicious and cheesy dish? The Potato, Broccoli & Pepper Jack Egg Casserole is here to save your breakfast or brunch! It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to please. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delightful dish!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
I love this dish for its simple yet rich flavors. The potatoes add a hearty base. Broccoli brings a fresh crunch that balances well with cheese. Pepper Jack cheese adds a nice kick and creaminess. You can easily adjust the spice level by using more or less cheese.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
– Additional vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, spinach)
– Different cheese options (e.g., cheddar, mozzarella)
Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies. Bell peppers add sweetness, while spinach boosts nutrition. You can swap cheeses too. Cheddar gives a nice sharp flavor, while mozzarella keeps it mild.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has around 300 calories. It provides about 15 grams of protein and 20 grams of fat. Carbs come in around 20 grams. This dish is filling and offers a good balance of nutrients. You can make it fit your diet goals with simple swaps.
For the full recipe, check the section above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
– In a large pot, boil water. Add the cubed potatoes. Cook for 10-12 minutes.
– Add the broccoli florets for the last 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Assembling the Casserole
– Layer the cooked potatoes and broccoli evenly in the baking dish.
– Sprinkle half of the shredded Pepper Jack cheese over the top.
– In a bowl, whisk together six large eggs, one cup of milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
– Pour the egg mixture evenly over the vegetables.
– Top with the remaining Pepper Jack cheese for a cheesy crust.
Baking Instructions
– Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes.
– Look for the eggs to be fully set and the top to be golden brown.
– After baking, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
– Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Find the full recipe to make this delightful potato, broccoli, and Pepper Jack egg casserole.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
To cook the potatoes, start by peeling and cubing them. I recommend cutting them into small, even pieces. This helps them cook faster and evenly. Boil the cubed potatoes for about 10-12 minutes until they are fork-tender. In the last 3 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. This saves time and keeps the broccoli bright green.
For the egg mixture, you want it to be smooth and creamy. Whisk the eggs and milk together well until no lumps remain. If you want a fluffier texture, beat the eggs more. Adding a bit of garlic powder and onion powder gives it extra flavor, too.
Preparing Ahead of Time
You can make this casserole in advance. Prepare it a day before and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the layers in the baking dish and cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
If you want to freeze the casserole, do so before baking. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole works well for brunch or dinner. It pairs nicely with a fresh salad or some sliced fruit. You could also serve it with crispy bacon or sausage for a heartier meal.
For side dishes, consider serving it with whole-grain toast or some roasted vegetables. The cheese adds a lot of flavor, so keep sides simple to balance the meal. For more ideas, check the Full Recipe to explore different options!
Variations
Vegetarian Options
You can make this casserole vegetarian by using tofu instead of eggs. Just crumble firm tofu and mix it in. You can also swap the broccoli for other greens like spinach or kale. They add great flavor and nutrition. If you want more protein, try adding legumes like black beans or chickpeas. Cooked quinoa or brown rice can also work well for extra texture and heartiness.
Spicy Twist
Want to give your casserole a kick? Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. This brings a nice heat that pairs well with the creamy cheese. If you go spicy, you might want to adjust the amount of Pepper Jack cheese. Try using a mix of Pepper Jack with a milder cheese to balance the heat.
Low-Carb Alternatives
If you are looking for a low-carb option, try using cauliflower instead of potatoes. Cauliflower has a similar texture and absorbs flavors well. It keeps the dish light and healthy. For a keto-friendly version, stick to the same seasonings and cheese. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor without the carbs.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent odors and keeps the taste intact. You can place it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools down before you cover it. This step avoids excess moisture that can make the dish soggy.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, the oven works best for keeping the texture. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish. Heat it in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between. This helps avoid hot spots and keeps it evenly warmed.
Freezing the Casserole
To freeze your casserole, let it cool completely first. Cut it into individual portions for easier thawing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Be sure to label it with the date. This way, you can track how long it has been in the freezer. For best quality, use it within 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer it to the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven, as mentioned earlier, for great texture.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole the night before. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Cook the potatoes and broccoli as directed in the recipe.
2. Layer the cooked veggies in the baking dish.
3. Whisk together the egg mixture and pour it over the layers.
4. Instead of baking, cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil.
5. Store it in the fridge overnight.
When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and remove the cover. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I substitute for Pepper Jack cheese?
If you don’t have Pepper Jack cheese, you have several tasty options. Here are a few substitutes:
– Cheddar: It offers a sharp flavor but lacks the heat.
– Monterey Jack: A milder cheese that melts well.
– Mozzarella: Great for a creamy texture, but less flavor.
– Spicy Gouda: It adds a similar kick with a unique taste.
Each cheese brings a different profile, so choose based on your taste.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the eggs set firmly and the top is golden brown. Here are some signs to check for:
– Firmness: Gently shake the dish. If the center jiggles, it needs more time.
– Color: Look for a golden crust on top.
– Temperature: Use a food thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).
Let it cool slightly before slicing for the best serving experience.
In this blog post, we explored a tasty casserole made with potatoes, broccoli, and Pepper Jack cheese. I shared tips for preparation, baking, and serving. You can customize it with extra veggies or different cheeses to match your taste. Consider making it ahead or trying variations like a spicy twist. Proper storage and reheating methods ensure great leftovers. Enjoy this easy recipe for any meal, and feel free to get creative with your ingredients!
