Kick-start your day with this vibrant and nutritious easy breakfast casserole. Packed full of flavors with delectable prosciutto, fresh asparagus, and gooey cheddar cheese, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any morning meal.
Our recipe includes some ingredients that might not be in your everyday pantry, such as prosciutto, a type of Italian dry-cured ham, and asparagus, a green vegetable that's in season in the spring. These ingredients should be readily available in most supermarkets or specialty stores.
Ingredients for Easy Breakfast Casserole with Prosciutto
Extra-virgin olive oil: A healthy fat used for sautéing the vegetables.
Yellow onion: Adds a sweet, caramelized flavor when sautéed.
Greens: For added color and nutrition.
Asparagus: Provides a fresh, crisp texture.
Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Prosciutto: Gives the casserole a rich, meaty flavor.
Bread: Soaks up the egg mixture to create a fluffy texture.
Eggs: The base of any casserole, binds all the ingredients together.
Cottage cheese: Adds creaminess and protein to the dish.
Milk: Thins out the egg mixture for a lighter texture.
Black pepper: Adds a kick of spice.
Cheddar: Melts into a deliciously gooey topping.
One reader, Genia Reiss says:
This easy breakfast casserole with prosciutto recipe is a game-changer! The combination of prosciutto, veggies, and cheese creates a delightful flavor. It's simple to make and perfect for brunch gatherings. The texture is just right, and the taste is divine. I highly recommend trying this recipe!
Techniques Required for Making a Breakfast Casserole with Prosciutto
Preheat the oven to 350°F: This step is essential to ensure the oven is at the correct temperature for baking the casserole.
Sauté the vegetables: This involves cooking the onions, greens, and asparagus in a skillet until tender and wilted, adding flavor and texture to the casserole.
Whisk the eggs: This step involves combining the eggs, cottage cheese, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well blended, creating the base for the casserole.
Bake the casserole: This step requires placing the casserole in the oven and baking until it is just set with no obvious liquid remaining, typically around 35 minutes.
Serve: After baking, the casserole should be allowed to cool for 10 minutes before being cut into wedges and served.
How To Make Easy Breakfast Casserole with Prosciutto
This healthy breakfast casserole made of fresh eggs, vegetables, and cheese will surely keep you full throughout a busy day.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tbspextra-virgin olive oil
- 1medium yellow onion,chopped
- 2greens,big handfuls tender, such as arugula, dandelion greens, baby kale, or spinach, tough stems removed
- 1½cupsasparagus,cut into ¾-inch pieces
- 1tspkosher salt,divided
- 3ozProsciutto,thinly sliced
- 2cupsbread,packed cubed crusty, such as levain, baguette, or Italian bread, slightly stale is ok
- 8large eggs
- 1cupcottage cheese,low fat
- 1cupmilk,2% or whatever kind you have in the fridge
- freshly ground black pepper
- 1½cupscheddar,3 ounces grated, divided
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Add oil to a 12-inch ovenproof skillet set over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until tender for about 5 minutes. Add the greens, asparagus, and ½ teaspoon salt and sauté until the greens wilt for about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
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Tear the prosciutto slices into smaller pieces and distribute them over the vegetables. Add the bread and stir everything together. Leave that to cool while you whisk the eggs.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, milk, the remaining ¾ teaspoon of salt, and several generous grinds of black pepper.
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Add ½ cup of the cheese and stir again. Pour the eggs over the vegetables and scatter the remaining cheese on top.
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Place the casserole in the oven and bake until it is just set with no obvious liquid remaining for about 35 minutes.
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Cool for 10 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 292.50kcal
- Fat: 18.29g
- Saturated Fat: 8.04g
- Trans Fat: 0.31g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.09g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.86g
- Carbohydrates: 10.64g
- Fiber: 1.31g
- Sugar: 4.20g
- Protein: 21.11g
- Cholesterol: 226.52mg
- Sodium: 684.39mg
- Calcium: 279.04mg
- Potassium: 307.86mg
- Iron: 2.04mg
- Vitamin A: 179.23µg
- Vitamin C: 2.44mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Easy Breakfast Casserole with Prosciutto
When sautéing the vegetables, it's important to ensure that they are cooked just until they're tender, but still retain their vibrant color. Overcooking can lead to a loss of nutrients and a mushy texture. Also, when adding the prosciutto, make sure to tear it into smaller pieces for even distribution and better integration of flavors. Lastly, when whisking the eggs, do it gently to incorporate air, which will result in a fluffier and lighter casserole.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Easy Breakfast Casserole
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare the vegetables and prosciutto the night before to save time in the morning.
Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to save time on grating and cleanup.
One-pan wonder: Utilize an ovenproof skillet to sauté, bake, and serve the casserole all in one dish for easy cleanup.
Customize and simplify: Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite vegetables and simplify the recipe to suit your taste and save time.
Make it a team effort: Enlist the help of family members or friends to assist with the preparation to save time and make it a fun cooking experience.
Batch cooking: Consider making a larger batch and freezing individual portions for quick and convenient breakfasts throughout the week.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Breakfast Casserole with Prosciutto Recipe
prosciutto - Substitute with smoked ham: Smoked ham has a similar salty and savory flavor to prosciutto, making it a suitable substitute for this breakfast casserole. It also provides a nice smoky flavor to the dish.
asparagus - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli florets can be used as a substitute for asparagus in this casserole, providing a similar texture and adding a pop of green color to the dish.
Presenting Your Delicious Prosciutto Breakfast Casserole
Elevate the plating: When presenting this easy breakfast casserole with prosciutto, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use clean lines and carefully arrange the casserole on the plate to showcase the layers and ingredients.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped chives or parsley. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a pop of flavor to the casserole.
Incorporate edible flowers: Consider adding a few delicate and edible flowers as a garnish to bring a touch of sophistication to the presentation. Edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies can add a beautiful, artistic element to the dish.
Use high-quality serving ware: Opt for elegant and high-quality serving platters or individual ramekins to present the casserole. The right serving ware can elevate the overall presentation and create a memorable dining experience.
Create a side salad: Accompany the casserole with a small side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This will add a refreshing element to the plate and provide a balance of flavors and textures.
Consider the color contrast: When plating, think about the color contrast of the ingredients. For example, consider serving the casserole on a white plate to allow the vibrant greens and golden tones of the dish to stand out.
Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction: For a final touch, consider drizzling a small amount of balsamic reduction around the edge of the plate. This not only adds a touch of sweetness but also creates an artistic and professional presentation.
Storing and Freezing Your Prosciutto Breakfast Casserole
Let the casserole cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole:
- Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This double layer will help prevent freezer burn.
- Label the casserole with the date and contents, so you can easily identify it later.
- Place the wrapped casserole in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 2 months.
To reheat the casserole:
- If frozen, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove any plastic wrap and cover the casserole loosely with foil.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If the casserole is still cold in the center, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a slice of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.
Enjoy your leftover breakfast casserole within 3-4 days of reheating for the best quality and taste.
How To Reheat Leftover Breakfast Casserole
To reheat leftover easy breakfast casserole with prosciutto, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too much and drying out. Place the covered dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. The time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your casserole, so keep an eye on it.
Another option is to reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a slice of the breakfast casserole on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the casserole moist during reheating. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The exact time will depend on the power of your microwave and the size of the portion.
For a crispy top, you can also reheat the casserole in a skillet. Place a slice of the casserole in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is crispy and the casserole is heated through. If you want to crisp up both sides, flip the slice and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your breakfast casserole for a quick and crispy result. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of the casserole in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to reheat the casserole until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's safe to consume. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature if you're unsure.
Interesting Fact About Breakfast Casseroles
The recipe includes prosciutto, a type of Italian dry-cured ham, which adds a savory and salty flavor to the breakfast casserole. Prosciutto is often used in Italian cuisine and is known for its delicate texture and rich taste.
Is Making This Prosciutto Breakfast Casserole Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this breakfast casserole with prosciutto recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients in your area. Prosciutto and asparagus can be relatively expensive, but the use of cottage cheese and eggs can balance the cost. Considering the nutritional value and the fact that it can serve 4 people, the approximate cost for a household of 4 would be around $20-25. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10, as it offers a flavorful and satisfying breakfast option that can be prepared in advance and enjoyed by the whole family.
Is This Breakfast Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?
This breakfast casserole recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like vegetables (onion, greens, and asparagus), eggs, and cottage cheese, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and protein. The use of extra-virgin olive oil is also a healthier choice compared to other cooking oils.
However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components:
- Prosciutto, while delicious, is high in sodium and saturated fat
- The amount of cheese used (1½ cups cheddar) contributes to the overall saturated fat and calorie content
- The recipe calls for whole milk, which adds additional fat and calories
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of prosciutto or replace it with a leaner protein source, such as turkey bacon or smoked salmon
- Use a reduced-fat cheddar cheese or a smaller amount of a stronger-flavored cheese, like sharp cheddar or parmesan, to maintain flavor while cutting down on fat and calories
- Opt for low-fat or skim milk instead of whole milk to reduce the fat content
- Increase the proportion of vegetables in the recipe to boost the fiber and nutrient content
- Use whole-grain bread instead of white bread to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates
- Serve the casserole with a side salad or fresh fruit to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals
Editor's Opinion on This Prosciutto Breakfast Casserole Recipe
The combination of prosciutto, asparagus, and cheddar in this breakfast casserole creates a delightful flavor profile. The addition of cottage cheese and milk gives the eggs a creamy texture, while the bread adds a comforting element. The use of greens adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish. Overall, this easy breakfast casserole with prosciutto recipe is a delicious and satisfying option for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast occasion.
Enhance Your Easy Breakfast Casserole with Prosciutto Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Easy Breakfast Casserole with Prosciutto Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful breakfast experience with prosciutto, asparagus, and cheddar cheese. The combination of fresh vegetables and savory prosciutto creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. The use of cottage cheese and milk ensures a creamy texture, while the addition of bread provides a comforting element. The careful preparation and baking process result in a perfectly set casserole. Trust the balance of flavors and textures in this recipe to elevate your breakfast game.
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