Cheesy Broccoli-Egg Breakfast Casserole

Submitted by Kittencalrecipezazz

"A 10-ounce package frozen broccoli pieces can be used in place of the cooked fresh broccoli if desired, and old cheddar cheese can be used in place of the three-cheese blend. This makes a great weeknight meal also served with a side salad!"

 

• Ready In: 1hr 10mins
• Ingredients: 12
• Serves: 4-6

ingredients

• 3⁄4 - 1 lb turkey sausage (casings removed or use pork sausage)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic (to taste) (optional)
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (cooked and well drained)
• 2 cups shredded 3-cheese gourmet cheddar blend cheese, divided
• 8 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1⁄4 cup half-and-half cream or 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• salt (I use about 1 teaspoon seasoned salt, but white salt will do fine)
• 1 pinch cayenne (optional or to taste)
• 1 -2 firm plum tomato, thinly sliced

directions

1. Set oven to 350 degrees.
2. Butter an 11 x 7-inch baking dish.
3. In a skillet cook the turkey sausage or pork sausage meat with onion and garlic (if using) until the meat is no longer pink; drain fat and transfer to a large bowl.
4. Toss together the sausage with cooked broccoli and about 1/2 cup three-cheese blend; spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. In a bowl whisk eggs, add in 1/2 cup shredded three-cheese blend, ricotta, half and half cream, salt, pepper and cayenne (if using) pour over the broccoli mixture in the baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar (or to taste) cheese, then arrange the tomato slices on top.
7. Bake covered for 30 minutes; uncover and continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes more.