California Breakfast
A savory, cheesy breakfast casserole combining eggs, cottage cheese, Monterey Jack, and chilies, baked to golden perfection. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it a hearty start to the day, perfect for brunch gatherings or weekend mornings with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs until lemon colored.
- Add flour, baking powder, salt, cottage cheese, shredded Jack cheese, and melted butter to the eggs and blend smoothly.
- Stir in chilies.
- Pour the mixture into a well-greased 9-inch square dish.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 35 minutes or until the top is lightly brown and the center appears firm.
- Cut into squares and serve hot.
- Serve with coarsely chopped and sautéed red pepper and green onions.
- Accompany with bran muffins.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the eggs with egg whites. If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, feel free to use Cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can enhance the flavor. Ensure the cottage cheese is well-mixed to avoid lumps for a smoother texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with coarsely chopped and sautéed red pepper and green onions for a fresh touch. You could also serve it alongside bran muffins for a hearty meal. For a complete breakfast, consider adding a side of fresh fruit or a mixed green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of California Breakfast contains roughly 297 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1489mg per serving (65% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bake it fresh in the morning for the best texture and flavor. It can also be reheated if made ahead, but fresh-baked is always preferred.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even diced ham or bacon for added flavor. Just be cautious not to overload the mixture, as it may affect the baking time and texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for those following vegetarian diets. The combination of eggs and cottage cheese provides plenty of protein, making it a satisfying meal.
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).