Looking for a delightful and easy breakfast dish to impress your family or guests? Look no further than the Eggs Ole Casserole! This savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy casserole is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast. Packed with flavor and simple to prepare, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Read on to discover how to make this delectable dish and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love.
What is Eggs Ole Casserole?
Eggs Ole Casserole is a rich and flavorful baked dish made primarily with eggs, cheeses, and diced green chiles. It's a versatile recipe that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese and Monterey Jack cheese with the mild heat of green chiles, all baked to perfection. This casserole is an excellent choice for breakfast or brunch, offering a satisfying and protein-packed meal that can be easily prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients List for Eggs Ole Casserole
To make this delicious Eggs Ole Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- ½ cup (113g) butter, melted
- 1 16-ounce package cottage cheese
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup (31g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 4-ounce can diced green chiles
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 10 large eggs, lightly beaten
These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering casserole that is both creamy and slightly spicy, making it a perfect addition to your breakfast table.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about the Eggs Ole Casserole is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Cheese: Swap out Monterey Jack cheese for cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses to change the flavor profile.
- Green Chiles: If you prefer a milder dish, use mild green chiles. For more heat, add some chopped jalapeños or use hot green chiles.
- Cottage Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, ricotta cheese can be a good alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Vegetables: Add some chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to create a casserole that perfectly suits your taste.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making the Eggs Ole Casserole is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and achieve a beautiful golden-brown top.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish and make for easy serving and cleanup.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, cottage cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, flour, baking powder, diced green chiles, and salt. Make sure the ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl until they are lightly beaten. Gradually add the eggs to the cheese mixture, whisking until everything is combined. The mixture will be lumpy due to the cottage cheese and shredded cheese.
Step 5: Pour into the Baking Dish
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is browned and set in the middle. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or knife into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the casserole set further and make it easier to cut into neat portions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Eggs Ole Casserole turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Remove it from the oven as soon as it’s set in the middle and lightly browned on top.
- Not Combining Ingredients Properly: Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly, especially the eggs, to ensure an even texture throughout the casserole.
- Skipping the Preheating Step: Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature before baking. This helps the casserole cook evenly and rise properly.
By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly cooked and delicious casserole every time.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The Eggs Ole Casserole is a visually appealing dish with its golden-brown top and specks of green from the chiles. Here are some tips to enhance its presentation and make it even more appetizing:
How to Serve Eggs Ole Casserole
- Family-Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a casual, family-style meal. Place the dish in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.
- Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, cut the casserole into individual portions and plate them separately. Garnish each plate with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.
Presentation Ideas for Eggs Ole Casserole
- Garnishes: Add a pop of color with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of paprika on top.
- Sides: Serve the casserole with a side of fresh fruit, a green salad, or some avocado slices to add variety and balance to the meal.
- Toppings: Offer toppings such as salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce for guests to customize their servings.
These presentation ideas will help make your Eggs Ole Casserole look as good as it tastes.
Eggs Ole Casserole Recipe Tips
Here are some additional tips to ensure your Eggs Ole Casserole turns out perfectly every time:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, simply bake it as directed. This is perfect for busy mornings or when hosting guests.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers. Defrost in the microwave or overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat before serving.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of Eggs Ole Casserole anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of cheese in the casserole?
Yes, you can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar, pepper jack, or any other cheese you prefer. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.
How spicy is this casserole?
The casserole has a mild heat from the diced green chiles. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add chopped jalapeños or use hot green chiles.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Bake it in the morning as directed. This makes it a great option for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers. Defrost in the microwave or overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat before serving.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. The casserole will still turn out delicious and satisfying.
Conclusion
The Eggs Ole Casserole is a versatile and flavorful dish that is perfect for breakfast or brunch. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and mild heat from the green chiles, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family meal or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress. Follow the simple steps and tips provided in this article to create a delicious and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Enjoy!
PrintEggs Ole Casserole Recipe
Eggs Ole Casserole is a creamy and slightly spicy breakfast dish. Featuring melted butter, cottage cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, diced green chiles, and lightly beaten eggs, this casserole is perfect for starting your day with a flavorful kick. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe will become a staple in your breakfast routine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- ½ cup (113g) butter, melted
- 1 16-ounce package cottage cheese
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup (31g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 4-ounce can diced green chiles
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 10 large eggs, lightly beaten
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, cottage cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Stir in the flour, baking powder, diced green chiles, and salt.
- Add the lightly beaten eggs and mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding cooked sausage or bacon.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning.
- Serve with salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (⅛ of casserole)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 510mg
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