Veggie Breakfast Bake for Kids
Prep Time
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Bake: 40–45 minutes
- Total: 55–60 minutes
Servings
8 servings
Ingredients
- 1½ cups broccoli florets, chopped very small
- 1 cup zucchini, finely diced (lightly squeeze out excess moisture)
- 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup onion, finely diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or spinach
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Steam or microwave the broccoli for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Let cool.
- Whisk together eggs, milk, blended cottage cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir in broccoli, zucchini, onion, parsley or spinach, cheddar, and mozzarella.
- Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Ideas
- Fresh fruit
- Whole-grain toast
- Yogurt
- Avocado slices
- Salsa or ketchup for dipping
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Calcium: 20% Daily Value
- Iron: 8% Daily Value
- Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 35% Daily Value
Nutritional values are estimates and will vary depending on ingredient brands and exact quantities.
Storage
Refrigerator
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
- Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
- Wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
- Microwave: 45–60 seconds.
- Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Variations
- Add diced bell peppers.
- Use cauliflower instead of broccoli.
- Add cooked turkey sausage or ham.
- Make it gluten-free (this recipe is naturally gluten-free if all ingredients are certified gluten-free).
- Use pepper jack or Swiss cheese for a different flavor.
- Add mushrooms or spinach.
Tips
- Dice vegetables very small so they’re kid-friendly.
- Remove moisture from zucchini to prevent a watery bake.
- Don’t overbake; the eggs should be just set.
- Blend the cottage cheese for a smoother texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Assemble it the night before, cover, refrigerate, and bake the next morning.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Slice after cooling and freeze portions individually.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw it first and drain well to remove excess moisture.
Can I replace cottage cheese?
Yes. Substitute with ricotta or plain Greek yogurt for a slightly different texture.
How do I know it’s done?
Insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean and the center is firm, it’s ready.
Is it good for toddlers?
Yes. Cut into small bite-size pieces and reduce or omit the salt if preparing specifically for very young children.
Can I add meat?
Yes. Cooked bacon, turkey sausage, diced chicken, or ham all work well.
Can I make muffins instead?
Yes. Divide the mixture into a greased muffin tin and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.
