Looking for a delicious and protein-packed dish that can serve a crowd or be used for meal prep? Look no further than the Denver Omelet Egg Bake. This mouthwatering bake features fluffy eggs, savory diced ham, crunchy bell peppers, and gooey melted cheese, all cooked together in one convenient casserole dish. Whether you're hosting a brunch or simply want an easy and nutritious meal for the week, this recipe has got you covered. Say goodbye to boring breakfasts and hello to a tasty and hassle-free option that will leave everyone satisfied. See the recipe details here: [link]

Denver Omelet Egg Bake: A Versatile and Delicious Breakfast Option

Are you looking for a tasty and easy breakfast option that can feed a crowd or be prepared in advance for meal prep? Look no further than the Denver Omelet Egg Bake. This delicious dish combines fluffy eggs, salty diced ham, crunchy bell peppers, and melty cheese all in one casserole dish. With a few simple steps and a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a satisfying and nutritious breakfast that will keep you fueled for the day ahead. Plus, we'll explore different variations, meal prep tips, storage options, nutritional information, health benefits, tips and tricks, serving suggestions, and conclude with why this dish is the perfect breakfast choice. Let's dive in!

Ingredients

To make the Denver Omelet Egg Bake, you'll need the following ingredients:

Eggs

Eggs are the star of the dish and provide a rich and creamy base. They are high in protein and packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for starting your day.

Ham

Diced ham adds a savory and salty flavor to the egg bake. It pairs perfectly with the other ingredients and adds protein to the dish.

Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers not only add a vibrant touch to the bake but also provide a refreshing crunch. They are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as other antioxidants.

Onion

Chopped onion adds a delicious savory taste and adds depth of flavor to the dish. It also provides additional vitamins and minerals.

Cheese

Melty cheese adds a creamy and indulgent element to the bake. You can choose your favorite kind of cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack, to enhance the flavor and texture.

Salt and Black Pepper

Seasoning with salt and black pepper enhances the overall taste of the dish. Be mindful of the amount of salt you add, as some of the other ingredients may already contain sodium.

Milk

Adding milk to the egg mixture helps create a fluffy and moist texture. It also adds a touch of creaminess to the bake.

Instructions

Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, follow these step-by-step instructions to create your Denver Omelet Egg Bake:

1. Preheat the oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the egg bake cooks evenly and thoroughly.

2. Prepare the ingredients

Dice the ham, chop the bell peppers and onion, and shred the cheese. Set aside.

3. Whisk the eggs

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well beaten. This helps incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter texture.

4. Add the ham, bell peppers, and onion

Add the diced ham, chopped bell peppers, and onion to the whisked eggs. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients throughout the mixture.

5. Mix in the cheese

Add the shredded cheese to the egg mixture and gently fold it in. The cheese will melt and create pockets of ooey-gooey goodness throughout the bake.

6. Season with salt and black pepper

Sprinkle in salt and black pepper according to your taste. Be cautious not to over-season, as the ham and cheese may already contribute to the overall saltiness.

7. Pour in the milk

Slowly pour the milk into the egg mixture while stirring continuously. This helps create a smooth and creamy consistency.

8. Bake the egg mixture

Grease a casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Pour the egg mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and slightly golden on top.

9. Serve and enjoy

Once the Denver Omelet Egg Bake is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut it into serving portions and serve it hot. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite!

Variations

The Denver Omelet Egg Bake is highly customizable, allowing you to explore different flavors and spice levels. Here are three delicious variations to consider:

Vegetarian version

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables of your choice. Consider adding mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

Spicy version

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some spice to your Denver Omelet Egg Bake. Incorporate diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to give it a fiery kick.

Mexican version

Give your egg bake a Mexican twist by adding ingredients like diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and shredded Mexican cheese blend. Top it off with salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of sour cream for an even more authentic taste.

Meal Prep Tips

If you're meal prepping for the week or want to make this dish ahead of time, here are some useful tips:

Portioning

After baking the Denver Omelet Egg Bake, portion it into individual servings using a knife or spatula. This makes it easier to grab and go for quick and convenient breakfasts throughout the week.

Freezing

If you don't plan on consuming the entire bake within the week, you can freeze individual portions for future use. Wrap each serving tightly with plastic wrap or place them in freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven.

Storage

Proper storage is essential to maintaining the freshness and quality of your Denver Omelet Egg Bake. Here are two storage options:

Refrigeration

If you plan to consume the entire bake within the week, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and delicious breakfast.

Freezing

To extend the shelf life of your egg bake, freeze individual portions. As mentioned in the meal prep tips, wrap each serving tightly with plastic wrap or place them in freezer-safe containers. The frozen portions can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

The Denver Omelet Egg Bake is not only delicious but also offers several nutritional benefits. Here's a breakdown of its key components:

Calories

The calorie content of the egg bake will depend on the portion size and the specific ingredients used. However, on average, a serving of 1/6th of the bake contains approximately 200-250 calories.

Protein

Eggs and ham are excellent sources of protein. A standard serving of the Denver Omelet Egg Bake provides around 15-20 grams of protein, making it a filling and satisfying breakfast option.

Fat

The fat content in the bake largely comes from the eggs and cheese. While exact values may vary, a serving typically contains around 10-15 grams of fat. Remember that moderate fat consumption is essential for a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

The Denver Omelet Egg Bake is low in carbohydrates. A serving generally provides less than 10 grams of carbs, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.

Health Benefits

Enjoying a slice of the Denver Omelet Egg Bake comes with several health benefits. Here's why it's a nutritious breakfast choice:

High in protein

Eggs and ham provide a significant amount of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and keeping you full and satisfied throughout the day.

Good source of vitamins and minerals

Eggs are rich in essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium. Bell peppers add a dose of vitamins A and C, while onions contribute to the overall nutritional profile of the dish.

Low in carbohydrates

For those watching their carbohydrate intake, the Denver Omelet Egg Bake is a great option. With minimal carbs, it can help keep blood sugar levels stable and support weight management goals.

Tips and Tricks

To make your Denver Omelet Egg Bake even more delicious and foolproof, consider these tips and tricks:

Use a non-stick casserole dish

A non-stick casserole dish makes the cleanup process much easier and ensures that the baked egg mixture doesn't stick to the sides or bottom. This tip also applies to lining the dish with parchment paper for added convenience.

Customize the vegetables and meat

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and meat options based on your preferences and dietary needs. Add mushrooms, spinach, or even leftover roasted vegetables to boost the nutritional value of the bake.

Add herbs and spices for extra flavor

Enhance the taste of your Denver Omelet Egg Bake by adding herbs and spices. Options like chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill), dried Italian seasoning, or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile and add a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

The Denver Omelet Egg Bake is delicious on its own, but you can level up your breakfast experience with these serving suggestions:

Pair with toast or English muffins

Serve a slice of the egg bake with a side of whole wheat toast or toasted English muffins. It's a classic combination that adds an extra touch of satisfaction to your breakfast.

Serve with a side of fruit

Complement the savory flavors of the bake with a side of fresh fruit. Berries, sliced melon, or a mixed fruit salad are all great options that provide a refreshing and nutritious contrast.

Top with fresh herbs or salsa

Sprinkle fresh herbs like chives or green onions on top of the egg bake to add a vibrant and fragrant element. You can also drizzle salsa or hot sauce over individual portions for a tangy and zesty kick.

Conclusion

The Denver Omelet Egg Bake is a versatile and delicious breakfast option that can satisfy a crowd or be prepped ahead of time for meal planning. With its fluffy eggs, savory ham, crunchy bell peppers, and melty cheese, it's a dish that provides both taste and nutrition. Whether you choose to stick with the classic recipe or explore variations like the vegetarian, spicy, or Mexican version, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences and dietary needs. With handy meal prep tips, storage options, and information about its nutritional benefits, the Denver Omelet Egg Bake is a fantastic addition to your breakfast repertoire. Give it a try and start your day on a flavorful and satisfying note!