Subscribe: Get Our Latest Recipes
×

high protein breakfast casserole with smashed potatoes

by | This recipe hasn't been reviewed yet!

Jump to Recipe
Leave a review

This post may contain affiliate links.

High Protein Breakfast Casserole with Smashed Baby Potatoes

If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying, and protein-packed breakfast that actually keeps you full, this High-Protein Breakfast Casserole with Smashed Baby Potatoes is about to become a staple in your routine. It’s loaded with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, creamy cottage cheese, melty cheddar, and a boost of greens—all layered over a crispy, golden potato base. Think of it as the perfect cross between a breakfast bake and a loaded brunch skillet… but way easier to prep ahead.

This recipe is ideal for meal prep, weekend brunch, or feeding a crowd. You can make it once and enjoy it throughout the week, and it reheats beautifully. Plus, it uses simple, everyday ingredients while delivering big flavor and a solid dose of protein in every bite. I’ve been eating this all week and can confirm that i’m not sick of it and in fact am more obsessed with the flavours as the days go by!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • High in protein and super filling
  • Perfect for meal prep or make-ahead breakfasts
  • Crispy potato base + creamy, cheesy topping
  • Customizable with different proteins and veggies
  • Easy to reheat for busy mornings

Tips for the Best Results

  • Don’t skip smashing the potatoes: This creates more surface area for crispiness and helps the base hold together.
  • Drain moisture from spinach: If using frozen spinach, squeeze out excess water to avoid a soggy casserole.
  • Let it rest before slicing: This step is key for clean slices and better texture.
  • Add extra veggies: Mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers all work well here.
  • Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or use hot sausage for a kick.

Storage & Meal Prep

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Final Thoughts

This High-Protein Breakfast Casserole with Smashed Baby Potatoes is everything you want in a breakfast: filling, flavorful, and easy to make ahead. The crispy potato base combined with the creamy, cheesy egg layer makes every bite incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or hosting brunch, this is one recipe that delivers every single time. If you’re serving this to a crowd I suggest pairing it with some toasted sourdough, a fruit salad or chopped fruit and yogurt parfaits with yogurt and granola!

How To Make high protein breakfast casserole with smashed potatoes

The Ingredients

Baby Potatoes: These form the crispy, golden base of the casserole. When smashed, they create the perfect texture—soft on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside.
Substitutes: Yukon gold potatoes (cubed and smashed), sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter twist or you could even do this tater tots or hashbrowns to make it easier

Pork Sausage: Adds rich, savory flavor and protein.
Substitutes: Turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter option.

Eggs: The backbone of the casserole, binding everything together while adding high-quality protein.
Substitutes: Egg whites (use about 2 cups) for a lower-fat version.

Cottage Cheese: This is the secret ingredient that makes the casserole extra creamy while boosting protein without heaviness. My favorite is always Good Culture
Substitutes: Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a similar texture.

Cheddar Cheese: Provides that classic melty, cheesy flavor. I love Tillamok sharp cheddar! I get mine at Costco for the best deal.
Substitutes: Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a reduced-fat cheddar if preferred.

Spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and freshness to balance the richness.
Substitutes: Kale (chopped and sautéed), arugula, or even bell peppers or mushrooms.

Seasonings: Simple spices bring everything together.
Options: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes for heat.

What You Need

The Steps

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the baby potatoes until fork-tender (about 12–15 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the potatoes on a greased baking dish and gently smash them with the bottom of a glass. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of oil. Bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden and crisp.
  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the pork sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed. Stir in spinach and cook for an extra 3 minutes until it has wilted.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, and seasonings until smooth.
  • Spread the cooked sausage over the smashed potato base. Pour the egg mixture over everything, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Bake for 25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
  • Option to divide into 6 and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • I recommend adding a splash of hot sauce before digging in!

Recipe Tips

This recipe makes 6 large servings (perfect for prepping ahead and taking with you) or 8-10 if you're hosting brunch and including other sides like a fruit salad, yogurt and toast.
 

 

high protein breakfast casserole with smashed potatoes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 510

Ingredients

  • 1 lb baby potatoes
  • 1 lb pork sausage
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups roughly chopped spinach
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the baby potatoes until fork-tender (about 12–15 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the potatoes on a greased baking dish and gently smash them with the bottom of a glass. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of oil. Bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden and crisp.
  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the pork sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed. Stir in spinach and cook for an extra 3 minutes until it has wilted.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, and seasonings until smooth.
  • Spread the cooked sausage over the smashed potato base. Pour the egg mixture over everything, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Bake for 25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
  • Option to divide into 6 and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • I recommend adding a splash of hot sauce before digging in!

Notes

This recipe makes 6 large servings (perfect for prepping ahead and taking with you) or 8-10 if you're hosting brunch and including other sides like a fruit salad, yogurt and toast.
 

Nutrition

Calories: 510kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 32gFat: 32g

This recipe hasn't been reviewed yet!

Submit a Review

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Meet Ivanka

Recipe creator, toddler mama & wellness enthusiast. Happy&Full is a blog all about quick and easy recipes for every day living! Eating well (and feeling well) doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

Learn More

Follow me here:

Featured Recipes

Everyday Green Smoothie

Everyday Green Smoothie

  Everyday Green Smoothie There is no better way to start your day than with a delicious and nutritious green smoothie. We've been having this smoothie daily for the last few years and when we don't have it, we are in serious withdrawal! If you want to...

Homemade Big Mac Burger Bowls

Homemade Big Mac Burger Bowls

  Big Mac Salad That same flavour and same comforting feeling that you can feel good about! We love this dinner when we need something quick but want to feel good after without compromising the flavour. Aside from cooking the beef, the remainder of prep is simple...

Crispy Potato Thins

Crispy Potato Thins

  Potato Thins If you are looking for the perfect, comforting, and EASY recipe, this is for you! The same delicious flavour as classic potato skins but way less effort! These require no scooping - just slice, bake and top! 3 medium russet potatoes1 tsp salt1 tsp...

Blender Oatmeal Banana Bread

Blender Oatmeal Banana Bread

,

  Blender Oat Banana Bread OK this COULD NOT BE an easier recipe! It’s a great way to use up spotty bananas. I love making a loaf on Sunday to have as a snack or breakfast throughout the week. Here, I'm using peanut butter cups instead of chocolate chips but...

partners and collaborators