Broccoli Cheddar Egg Bake with Turkey Bacon is a hearty and delicious breakfast (or anytime!) dish that combines fluffy eggs, sharp cheddar cheese, tender broccoli florets, and crispy turkey bacon all baked together into one comforting casserole. The mix of creamy cheese and savory turkey bacon gives it a great flavor without being too heavy.
I love making this egg bake on weekends when I want something I can slice up for a few meals ahead. It feels like a little treat but is actually packed with protein and veggies, so it helps me start the day feeling full and energized. Plus, the turkey bacon adds just the right amount of saltiness and crunch that keeps every bite interesting.
My favorite way to enjoy this is warm right out of the oven with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. It also reheats nicely, which means I can have a tasty breakfast waiting for me when I’m short on time. This dish always brings smiles to the table, and I bet it’ll do the same for you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Eggs are the base here, giving the bake structure and fluffiness. Using large eggs is best for consistent texture, but medium eggs work too—you might just need a little adjustment in liquid.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and nutrition. You can swap for frozen broccoli—just thaw and drain it well to avoid extra moisture making the bake soggy.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you like it milder, try mild cheddar or even Monterey Jack. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese substitute.
Turkey Bacon: This gives a smoky, salty boost without the fat of traditional bacon. You can replace it with regular bacon, ham, or cooked sausage depending on your taste and diet.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk both work well to make the eggs creamy. For a lower-calorie or dairy-free version, try unsweetened almond milk or oat milk—they won’t change flavor much.
How Do You Make Sure the Egg Bake Cooks Evenly and Sets Perfectly?
Cooking an egg bake without overcooking or leaving it runny can be tricky. Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Whisk eggs and milk thoroughly until slightly frothy—this helps bake evenly and stay light.
- Cut broccoli into small, even pieces so they cook through during baking.
- Use a well-greased dish to prevent sticking and allow even heat distribution.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) to let steam escape, which keeps the bake from becoming watery.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.
- Let the bake cool for a few minutes before slicing; this helps it firm up and hold its shape.
Following these steps consistently helps the egg bake turn out fluffy, set well, and never watery or tough.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy slicing into squares.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to whisk eggs and mix all your ingredients comfortably.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs and milk smoothly for a light, fluffy bake.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping broccoli, onions, and turkey bacon.
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter – keeps the egg bake from sticking to the dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey bacon with cooked sausage or ham for different savory flavors.
- Add diced bell peppers or tomatoes for a pop of color and fresh taste.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick.
- Mix in spinach or kale along with broccoli for extra greens and nutrients.
Broccoli Cheddar Egg Bake with Turkey Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- 6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
Seasonings & Extras:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a bit of time whisking the eggs, chopping the broccoli and bacon, then assembling everything in the baking dish before letting the oven do the work. It’s simple and hands-off!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter so nothing sticks during baking.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined and slightly frothy. This helps make the bake light and fluffy.
3. Add the Veggies, Cheese, and Bacon:
Stir in the shredded cheddar, chopped broccoli, cooked turkey bacon, and the finely chopped onion if you’re using it. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well so all the flavors come together.
4. Bake Your Egg Dish:
Pour the mixture evenly into your prepared 9×9-inch baking dish. Place it in the oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
5. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the egg bake cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm, and if you like, add extra broccoli or cheddar on top for more color and flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain frozen broccoli well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the egg mixture. This helps prevent your bake from becoming watery.
Is There a Substitute for Turkey Bacon?
Absolutely! You can swap turkey bacon with regular bacon, ham, or cooked sausage depending on your preference. Just be mindful of the saltiness and adjust seasoning if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to keep it moist and tasty.
Can I Make This Egg Bake Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the bake and refrigerate it overnight before baking the next day. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge to ensure it cooks completely.
