Name: Cheesy Green Chile Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups cottage cheese; 16 large eggs; 1 can diced green chiles (7 oz.); 2.75 cups grated Cheddar-Jack cheese; 1 bunch green onions (chopped); 1 tsp. Spike Seasoning; to taste Salt (and fresh-ground black pepper)

Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game with a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful? The Cheesy Green Chile Breakfast Casserole is a delightful combination of creamy cottage cheese, fluffy eggs, and zesty green chiles, all topped with a generous amount of gooey Cheddar-Jack cheese. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a lazy Sunday brunch, this casserole is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the reasons why you need to make this dish, how to prepare it, and some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

Top Reasons to Make Cheesy Green Chile Breakfast Casserole

Easy Preparation: This casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy mornings.
Feed a Crowd: It serves a large number of people, making it ideal for brunch parties or family gatherings.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of cottage cheese, green chiles, and Cheddar-Jack cheese creates a deliciously cheesy and savory flavor profile.
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite ingredients or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
Make Ahead: Prepare it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

Ingredient Checklist

To create the perfect Cheesy Green Chile Breakfast Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

1 ½ cups cottage cheese
16 large eggs
1 (7 oz.) can diced green chiles
2 ¾ cups grated Cheddar-Jack cheese
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1 tsp. Spike Seasoning
Salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste

Before You Start: Equipment

Before you begin, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
Whisk: To beat the eggs and blend everything together smoothly.
9×13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for this casserole.
Oven: Preheat to ensure even baking.
Knife: For chopping green onions.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out ingredients accurately.

Build Cheesy Green Chile Breakfast Casserole Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack the 16 eggs. Using a whisk, beat the eggs until they are fully combined and frothy. This aeration will help make your casserole light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Cottage Cheese and Seasoning

To the beaten eggs, add 1 ½ cups of cottage cheese, 1 tsp. of Spike Seasoning, and a pinch of salt and fresh-ground black pepper. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Green Chiles

Next, add the 7 oz. can of diced green chiles to the egg mixture. Stir gently to distribute the chiles evenly throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Mix in Cheese and Green Onions

Now it’s time to fold in the 2 ¾ cups of grated Cheddar-Jack cheese and the chopped green onions. Make sure to reserve a handful of cheese and green onions for topping the casserole later.

Step 6: Pour Mixture into Baking Dish

Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the egg and cheese mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Step 7: Top with Reserved Cheese and Onions

Sprinkle the reserved cheese and green onions on top of the casserole for a delicious, cheesy crust.

Step 8: Bake

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Make It Diet-Friendly

If you’re looking to customize your Cheesy Green Chile Breakfast Casserole to meet specific dietary needs, consider the following options:

Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat cottage cheese and reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories.
Vegetarian: Ensure all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly and consider adding more vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure any additional ingredients you include are also gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: Substitute cottage cheese and cheese with dairy-free alternatives such as tofu or vegan cheese.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

To ensure your Cheesy Green Chile Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly, watch out for these common pitfalls:

Overmixing: Mixing too aggressively can result in a dense texture. Stir just until combined.
Skipping Seasoning: Don’t skip the salt and pepper! They enhance the flavors of the casserole.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole as baking times can vary. Make sure it’s set in the middle before removing.
Not Letting It Cool: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing. This helps it hold its shape better.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Cheesy Green Chile Breakfast Casserole fresh, consider the following tips:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place slices in a toaster oven until warmed through.

Quick Q&A

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container.

Can I add meat to the casserole?

Yes! Cooked sausage, bacon, or ham can be added for extra protein and flavor. Just ensure it’s chopped into small pieces for even distribution.

Is this casserole good for meal prep?

Definitely! This casserole is perfect for meal prep, as you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

What to Make After This

Once you’ve enjoyed your Cheesy Green Chile Breakfast Casserole, why not try your hand at these delicious recipes?

Green Chili Chicken Soup – A warm and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Mexican Beefy Nacho Casserole – A satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Breakfast Nachos – A fun twist on breakfast that’s loaded with flavor!

Wrap-Up

The Cheesy Green Chile Breakfast Casserole is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings family and friends together. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and spicy kick from the green chiles, this casserole is an absolute must-try. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy weekend morning, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in a deliciously satisfying breakfast!