Protein-Packed Gluten-Free Breakfast Casserole: Your Ultimate Make-Ahead Quinoa & Veggie Bake
Discover the perfect solution for a wholesome and satisfying morning meal with this incredibly versatile and naturally gluten-free breakfast casserole. Imagine a dish that’s not only hearty and savory but also brimming with protein and essential nutrients, designed to fuel your day. This isn’t just any breakfast; it’s a thoughtfully crafted make-ahead masterpiece featuring a harmonious blend of farm-fresh eggs, nutrient-rich quinoa, crisp broccoli, earthy mushrooms, creamy cottage cheese, and savory Parmesan. It all comes together in an easy-to-prepare breakfast bake that elevates any occasion, whether it’s a casual weekend brunch, a special holiday gathering, or even a comforting breakfast-for-dinner.
If you’ve been searching for an easy, hearty, and utterly delicious gluten-free breakfast casserole recipe, your quest ends here. This recipe seamlessly combines the wholesome goodness of cooked quinoa with fluffy eggs, creamy cottage cheese, and a medley of perfectly sautéed vegetables to kickstart your day on the right note. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate a substantial breakfast that doesn’t compromise on flavor or health. Serve it piping hot with a refreshing side of fresh fruit or vibrant berries, complemented by a steaming cup of your favorite hot coffee or tea for a truly complete and satisfying meal.
This casserole is designed for convenience without sacrificing quality. Its make-ahead capability means you can assemble it the night before, cover it, refrigerate, and simply pop it in the oven the next morning. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weekdays when you need a grab-and-go option, or for relaxed weekends when you want a gourmet breakfast with minimal morning effort. The blend of ingredients ensures a balanced meal that is rich in protein, making it a stellar choice for anyone seeking a low-carb, high-protein breakfast that keeps you feeling full and energized.
Why You’ll Love This Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole
- Effortless Prep-Ahead Convenience: One of the standout features of this casserole is its ability to be prepared almost entirely the night before. This makes busy mornings incredibly smooth, allowing you to wake up, preheat the oven, and bake a fresh, hot breakfast without the usual rush and mess. It’s perfect for families, meal prepping, or simply ensuring a stress-free start to your day.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: While simple enough for any day, this casserole feels undeniably special. Its rich flavors and appealing presentation make it an excellent choice for holiday breakfasts, celebratory brunches, or welcoming overnight guests. It offers a comforting and sophisticated touch without requiring extensive culinary skills.
- Gluten-Free, High-Protein, and Low-Carb: Crafted with health in mind, this recipe naturally caters to various dietary needs. Quinoa provides a complete protein and a delightful texture without gluten, while eggs and cottage cheese boost the protein content significantly. This combination helps keep you satiated and energized throughout the morning, preventing mid-morning energy crashes.
- A Delicious Crustless Quiche Alternative: Think of this casserole as a hearty, crustless quiche. It delivers all the savory satisfaction of a traditional quiche – creamy egg custard, flavorful fillings, and a golden cheesy top – but without the added carbohydrates and fuss of a pastry crust. This makes it a lighter yet equally fulfilling option.
For a hearty side dish to complement your breakfast, consider these air fryer red potatoes. They cook up perfectly crispy and are a fantastic addition. You can also easily prepare them in a conventional oven if an air fryer isn’t available.
Essential Recipe Ingredients: Building Your Flavorful Casserole
Each ingredient in this gluten-free breakfast casserole plays a crucial role in creating its robust flavor and satisfying texture. We’ve carefully selected components that are not only delicious but also contribute to the dish’s nutritional value. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for sautéing our aromatics and vegetables. Using unsalted butter gives you precise control over the overall saltiness of your dish, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine.
- Onion (Yellow, White, or Brown): Provides a foundational aromatic base for the casserole. Any common variety of onion will work beautifully, adding a subtle sweetness and depth when softened.
- Fresh Italian (Flat-Leaf) Parsley & Thyme (Fresh or Dried): These herbs infuse the casserole with classic, savory notes. Fresh parsley offers a bright, fresh finish, while thyme delivers an earthy, aromatic warmth that complements the vegetables and eggs perfectly.
- Garlic (Powder or Fresh): A non-negotiable for savory dishes, garlic adds an indispensable layer of pungent depth and a delightful aroma. Whether you opt for the convenience of garlic powder or the intense flavor of freshly chopped cloves, it significantly enhances the overall taste.
- Cooked and Cooled Quinoa: The star of our gluten-free base, quinoa adds a delightful texture, a subtle nutty flavor, and a significant protein boost. It’s crucial to cook and cool the quinoa ahead of time to prevent the casserole from becoming watery. Both white and tri-color quinoa varieties work wonderfully.
- Mushrooms (White or Cremini): These fungi bring a rich, umami flavor and a satisfying, meaty texture when sautéed until deeply browned. They absorb flavors beautifully and add a wonderful complexity to the dish.
- Fresh Broccoli Crowns: Cut into small florets, broccoli provides a vibrant pop of color, a tender-crisp texture, and a generous dose of vitamins and fiber. Ensure they are trimmed into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and distribution.
- Large Eggs: The binding force of our casserole, eggs create the fluffy, custardy base. Using large eggs ensures the right consistency, and bringing them to room temperature can help achieve a smoother blend.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For those who enjoy a subtle kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a delightful warmth that balances the savory flavors without overwhelming them. Adjust to your preference.
- Cottage Cheese (Full-Fat or Low-Fat): This is key to the casserole’s creamy texture and adds a wonderful boost of protein. Full-fat cottage cheese will offer a richer flavor, but low-fat options also perform well, contributing to the light and airy consistency.
- Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated Parmesan contributes a salty, nutty, and intensely savory richness that creates a golden, flavorful crust on top of the casserole. Divided use ensures flavor throughout and a beautiful finish.
For precise measurements, detailed salt and pepper recommendations, and the complete step-by-step instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card provided below.
Creative Substitutions and Delicious Variations
One of the joys of cooking is the freedom to customize, and this breakfast casserole is incredibly adaptable! Feel free to experiment with these suggestions to make it truly your own, or to cater to specific dietary needs or preferences:
- Dairy-Free Alternatives: If you’re avoiding dairy, there are an increasing number of plant-based cottage cheese alternatives available on the market. While I haven’t personally tested them in this specific recipe, they might work to achieve a similar creamy texture. If you decide to try one, please let me know your results – your feedback is valuable! Remember to also use a vegan Parmesan-style cheese to keep the entire dish dairy-free.
- Cheese Swaps: Beyond Parmesan, this casserole welcomes other flavorful cheeses. Consider stirring in buttery grated Monterey Jack for a milder, meltier quality, sharp grated cheddar cheese for a classic savory punch, or sophisticated Gruyère for a nutty, complex flavor profile that elevates the dish. Each option will bring its unique character to the overall taste and texture.
- Adding Meat for Extra Savory Depth: For those who crave a meatier breakfast, this casserole is an excellent vehicle for adding your favorite cooked proteins. Stir in up to ½ cup of browned and crumbled pork sausage for a traditional breakfast flavor, or opt for leaner chicken sausage for a healthier twist. Cooked, crumbled bacon or finely diced leftover ham are also fantastic additions, providing a smoky or salty note. Ensure any meat added is fully cooked and drained of excess fat before incorporating it into the vegetable mixture. This step is crucial to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Exploring Other Vegetables: Don’t limit yourself to broccoli and mushrooms! This casserole is a blank canvas for various vegetables. Try adding finely diced bell peppers (any color) for sweetness and color, wilted spinach for an iron boost, sautéed zucchini, or even roasted sweet potato cubes for a touch of natural sweetness and extra fiber. Just ensure any added vegetables are cooked until tender-crisp and excess moisture is removed to maintain the casserole’s integrity.
These buttery herbed baby Dutch yellow potatoes are another excellent side dish, particularly if you’re planning a larger meal or brunch spread and want to add another layer of deliciousness.
Mastering Your Gluten-Free Breakfast Casserole: Step-by-Step Instructions
This gluten-free breakfast casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly flexible, designed for your convenience. It can be fully assembled the night before, covered securely with plastic wrap, and refrigerated. When morning arrives, simply pull it out and bake fresh for a warm, homemade meal. Remember to cook and cool your quinoa ahead of time to streamline the process. Before you begin assembling, lightly spray your chosen baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. If you’re baking immediately, pre-heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté the Onions: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt ½ tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté gently until they are soft and translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and dried thyme, cooking for just 1 minute more until fragrant. Transfer this aromatic mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly over the bottom.
- Brown the Mushrooms: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Increase the heat slightly to medium, then add the sliced mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they are beautifully browned and most of their moisture has evaporated. This step concentrates their umami flavor. Once cooked, add the mushrooms to the baking dish with the onions.
- Steam the Broccoli: Place the small broccoli florets in a steamer basket over simmering water. Steam for just 2-3 minutes, until they are tender-crisp and retain their vibrant green color. Avoid overcooking as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Chop the Cooked Broccoli: Once steamed, finely chop the broccoli florets into smaller, uniform pieces. This ensures they distribute evenly throughout the casserole and integrate well with the other ingredients.
- Combine Veggies, Quinoa, and Herbs: Add the chopped broccoli, cooked quinoa, and fresh Italian parsley to the baking dish, alongside the sautéed onions and mushrooms. Gently mix everything together with a spoon or spatula until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a blender, combine the cottage cheese with 2 of the large eggs. Puree on low speed for just a few seconds until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, add the remaining 8 eggs, along with half of the grated Parmesan cheese, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Blend briefly on low speed, just until all ingredients are combined and smooth. It’s important to avoid blending on high speed, as this can whip too much air into the eggs, potentially leading to a rubbery texture in the final casserole.
7. Assemble for Baking: Pour the smooth egg and cheese mixture evenly over the vegetables and quinoa in the baking dish. Gently tap the dish a few times on the counter to help the liquid settle and ensure all ingredients are submerged. Finally, sprinkle the remaining half of the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a beautiful golden crust as it bakes.
8. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the assembled casserole on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45-50 minutes. The casserole is ready when the top is light golden brown, and it feels firm to the touch in the center. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing, as this helps it set and makes for cleaner cuts.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your Casserole
Once your gluten-free breakfast casserole emerges from the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into individual portions. This brief resting period helps the casserole set, ensuring beautiful, neat slices. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a standalone star, but pairing it with complementary dishes can truly complete your meal.
- Fresh Fruit Medley: To add a refreshing contrast to the savory casserole, serve it alongside a vibrant assortment of fresh berries, slices of juicy melon, or a colorful seasonal fresh fruit salad. The natural sweetness and acidity of the fruit brighten the entire plate.
- Crisp Bacon: If your family enjoys a traditional breakfast meat, a side of crispy bacon is a classic pairing that adds a delightful crunch and salty counterpoint to the soft, savory casserole.
- Green Salad for a Heartier Meal: When serving this casserole for brunch, lunch, or even as a satisfying dinner, consider adding a light tossed green salad. A simple vinaigrette dressing will complement the richness of the casserole beautifully, adding freshness and balance.
- Garnishes for Extra Flair: Elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of flavor with simple garnishes. A dollop of cool sour cream or plain Greek yogurt offers a creamy tang, while a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or vibrant green onions adds color and a herbaceous finish. For cheese lovers, a final dusting of extra Parmesan is always a welcome addition.
- Beverage Pairings: A robust cup of coffee or a comforting mug of tea are perfect morning companions. For a brunch setting, consider mimosas or fresh-squeezed orange juice to complement the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Casserole
Absolutely! For a similar creamy texture, you can use ricotta cheese, although it may subtly alter the protein content and overall texture. If you prefer a more pronounced cheesy flavor, you could increase the amount of shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack, or even opt for goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just be mindful that different cheeses will melt and blend differently, affecting the final consistency.
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegetarian. However, if you are cooking for strict vegetarians, please ensure you use vegetarian-friendly Parmesan cheese, or simply omit it. Traditional Parmesan often contains animal rennet, so checking labels is important. Otherwise, standard Parmesan is fine for most vegetarians.
You certainly can, and it’s a fantastic way to customize the flavor! Cooked, crumbled bacon, finely chopped leftover ham, or cooked and drained sausage (like Italian, turkey, or mild breakfast sausage) all work exceptionally well. For best results, ensure the meat is fully cooked and any excess grease is drained before stirring it into the vegetable mixture. A general guideline is to add no more than ½ cup of cooked meat to avoid overpowering the other flavors and to maintain the casserole’s texture. Fully cooked sausage is particularly convenient as it’s easy to dice and mix in without extra cooking prep.
Absolutely! This casserole is perfectly designed for make-ahead convenience. You can assemble the entire dish the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. In the morning, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes while your oven preheats. Then bake as directed. This preparation method works wonderfully and saves valuable time on busy mornings.
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables for convenience. For broccoli, thaw it first and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before steaming. For frozen mushrooms, it’s best to sauté them thoroughly to cook off their moisture before adding them to the casserole, as frozen vegetables can release a lot of water during baking, potentially making the casserole soggy. Adjust cooking times slightly as needed.
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat individual portions, you can use a microwave until warmed through, or place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crisp on the edges. Covering it loosely with foil can prevent it from drying out.
More Delicious Breakfast Recipes to Explore
If you’re inspired to expand your breakfast repertoire, we have a variety of other fantastic recipe ideas that are perfect for terrific mornings. And for those days when you need something quick, healthy, and packed with goodness, be sure to check out our collection of smoothies recipes.
- The Best Buckwheat Pancakes Recipe
- Healthy Fruit Salad Recipe
- Gluten-Free Dutch Baby (German Pancakes)
- Gluten Free Waffles
Did You Make This Recipe? Share Your Experience!
We absolutely love hearing from you! If you’ve had the pleasure of making this delightful gluten-free breakfast casserole, please take a moment to add your comment below. Your feedback is incredibly valuable, not only to us but also to other readers who are considering trying this recipe. If you loved it and found it to be a fantastic addition to your breakfast rotation, please consider giving it a 5-star rating! Your ratings truly help others discover and enjoy this wonderful dish.
This recipe was originally published on April 3, 2017. If you are specifically looking for that original version of the recipe, please leave a comment, and we will be happy to send it to you directly.
📖 Recipe Card
Gluten Free Breakfast Casserole
By Sally Cameron
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Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Servings: 6
Calories: 267 kcal
Equipment
- 8×8 baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup chopped onion (half a medium)
- ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 ½ cups small broccoli florets (about 4 ounces)
- 8 ounces mushrooms (stemmed and sliced thin)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 fresh cloves finely chopped)
- ¾ cup cooked and cooled quinoa
- 10 large eggs
- ⅔ cup cottage cheese
- ⅔ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (divided use)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the dish
- Lightly spray an 8×8-inch glass or ceramic baking dish with nonstick spray. Sprinkle the cooked and cooled quinoa evenly over the bottom of the dish, forming the base of your casserole.
Sauté aromatics
- In a large (12-inch) skillet over medium-low heat, melt ½ tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic (powder or fresh) and dried thyme, and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Transfer this aromatic mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it over the quinoa.
Cook the mushrooms
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Increase the heat to medium. Add the thinly sliced mushrooms and cook them, stirring occasionally, until they are nicely browned and most of their natural moisture has evaporated. This step is crucial for developing their rich umami flavor. Once cooked, add the browned mushrooms to the baking dish alongside the onion mixture.
Add broccoli and herbs
- Steam the small broccoli florets until they are just tender-crisp, typically 2-3 minutes. Avoid overcooking. Once steamed, finely chop the broccoli. Add the chopped broccoli to the baking dish, along with the fresh chopped Italian parsley. Gently stir to evenly combine all the vegetables and quinoa in the dish.
Blend the egg mixture
- In a blender, combine the cottage cheese with 2 of the large eggs. Puree on low speed for a few seconds until the mixture is smooth. Then, add the remaining 8 eggs, ⅓ cup of the finely grated Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (plus ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes if using). Blend briefly on low speed, just until all the ingredients are well combined and smooth. It is important to avoid blending on high speed, as this can whip too much air into the mixture, which can lead to a less desirable, rubbery texture in the baked casserole.
Assemble the casserole
- Pour the smooth egg and cheese mixture evenly over the combined vegetables and quinoa in the baking dish. Gently tap the dish on the counter a few times to help the liquid settle and ensure everything is evenly distributed. Sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This layer will form a delicious, golden crust during baking.
Bake and serve
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To serve right away: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for approximately 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center feels firm to the touch when gently pressed. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. Let it cool slightly for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
To make ahead: After assembling, cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove it from the fridge 30–45 minutes before baking to allow it to come closer to room temperature. Bake as directed above. This make-ahead method is perfect for stress-free entertaining or busy mornings!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0.1g
Cholesterol: 329mg
Sodium: 578mg
Potassium: 433mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Vitamin A: 938IU
Vitamin C: 25mg
Calcium: 224mg
Iron: 2mg
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