Broccoli-Cheddar Egg "Bake"(Microwave)
A creamy, cheesy broccoli and bread casserole with a flavorful egg custard, perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart casserole dish, beat the eggs.
- Heat the milk on High for 2 1/2 to 4 minutes until steaming.
- Gradually beat the hot milk into the eggs.
- Stir in the bread, frozen broccoli, pimentos, salt, ground red pepper, and 2 ounces of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- With a spatula, lightly press the bread mixture into the egg mixture.
- Sprinkle the reserved 2 ounces of shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
- Let stand for 5 minutes.
- Cook the casserole, covered, on 50% power for 14 to 17 minutes until just set.
- Tilt the casserole dish and, with a spatula, gently lift the edge of the egg mixture twice during cooking to allow uncooked portions to run toward the edge.
- Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers to the mixture. If you don't have Italian bread, any hearty bread will work, just adjust the amount of milk if needed. To save time, use pre-cooked frozen broccoli. This dish can also be made with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend, to suit your taste. For a vegetarian option, ensure the bread is meat-free.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli-Cheddar Egg Bake is perfect for brunch or a light lunch. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, like Red Top Salad, for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of fruit or some crispy hash browns for added texture. You can also top it with salsa or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Cheddar Egg "Bake"(Microwave) contains roughly 1027 calories, with 44g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (106% of the Daily Value), protein (88% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1432mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen. Just steam it until tender and then chop it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the mix. This will give the dish a brighter flavor and a nice texture.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the milk with a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Ensure that the bread used is also dairy-free, as some varieties contain milk.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the mixture a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking it in the microwave to ensure even cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).