German Baked Eggs

If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table with happy smiles and satisfied appetites, this German Baked Eggs recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a cozy morning hug, warm and comforting, and just downright delicious. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve at special gatherings.

This fluffy, cheesy breakfast casserole is made with eggs, melted butter, cottage cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, hash browns, and a touch of flour and baking powder to keep things perfectly light and fluffy. Originally, this recipe was a Christmas tradition passed down from my mother-in-law, but it’s become a staple at countless brunches and family get-togethers. And trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to for your special occasions too.

Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, whipping up a special breakfast for the family, or just looking for a hearty meal to start the day right, this German Baked Eggs casserole checks all the boxes. It’s the definition of comfort food at its finest, with gooey cheese, tender hash browns, and rich, creamy cottage cheese all baked into eggy perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a must-try for so many reasons, but let’s break down exactly why you’re going to fall in love with this baked egg casserole.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients mixed together in one bowl, you can have this casserole prepped and ready for the oven in no time. No complicated steps or fancy techniques required—just good old-fashioned comfort cooking at its best.

Another reason this dish is a winner is its rich, creamy texture and cheesy goodness. The combination of cottage cheese and Monterey Jack cheese creates a wonderfully gooey and satisfying filling that melts in your mouth. And the hash browns? They add just the right amount of heft and heartiness to make this casserole feel like a complete meal.

It’s also perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re serving a big family brunch, hosting a holiday breakfast, or simply meal-prepping for the week ahead, this dish delivers generous portions that everyone will love. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so leftovers are just as delicious as the day it was made.

On top of all that, this recipe is totally customizable. Want to add some extra flavor? Throw in some chopped green onions, bell peppers, or even cooked turkey bacon for a meaty twist. Prefer a spicier kick? A dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes will do the trick. The possibilities are endless, and this base recipe provides a wonderful canvas for all your culinary creativity.

Health Benefits
You might be surprised to learn that this comforting breakfast casserole actually offers a decent amount of nutritional benefits, especially if you make a few simple adjustments to suit your dietary needs. Let’s break down why this dish isn’t just tasty but also nourishing.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Before diving into the ingredient list and instructions, let’s go over the practical details of making this delicious breakfast casserole.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes to 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 to 10 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: Approximately 350
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 25g
Sodium: 620mg
Calcium: 300mg
Iron: 1.5mg

Keep in mind that these nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and measurements you use. If you’re looking to reduce calories or fat, you can always adjust the ingredients as needed.

Ingredients List

Now, let’s get to the good stuff—what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole. Here’s a detailed list of the ingredients required for this German Baked Eggs recipe:

Eggs: You’ll need 12 large eggs. Eggs are the foundation of this dish, providing the structure and creamy texture that makes this casserole so special.
Butter: One stick of butter, melted. This adds richness and moisture to the casserole, ensuring a soft and decadent finish.
Cottage Cheese: Use 16 ounces of cottage cheese. It adds creaminess and protein, while also keeping the casserole light and fluffy.
Monterey Jack Cheese: Another 16 ounces of cheesy goodness. Monterey Jack melts beautifully, adding gooey, stretchy deliciousness to every bite.
Frozen Hash Browns: You’ll need 16 ounces of frozen hash browns, thawed. They provide a satisfying heartiness and texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy filling.
Baking Powder: One teaspoon of baking powder to help give the casserole a little bit of lift and fluffiness.
Flour: A quarter cup of flour is used to bind everything together. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to use a gluten-free flour substitute.
Salt & Pepper: Season to taste. A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper enhance all the flavors and bring the dish together.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make this cheesy, comforting German Baked Eggs casserole:

1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This keeps everything from sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.

2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

• Crack all 12 eggs into a large mixing bowl.

• Whisk them well until you’ve got a smooth, uniform mixture. You can use a fork, but a whisk makes it easier and quicker.

3: Add the Remaining Ingredients

• Melt the butter (about 30 seconds in the microwave should do it) and pour it into the egg mixture.

• Add cottage cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, hash browns, baking powder, flour, salt, and pepper.

• Stir everything together until well-combined. It’ll look a little chunky, but don’t worry—it all bakes up beautifully.

4: Pour & Bake

• Pour the mixture into your prepared 9×13 dish.

• Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

• Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set. A little jiggle is fine, but it shouldn’t be too wobbly.

5: Let It Rest

• Allow the casserole to cool for about 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up, making it easier to serve.

6: Enjoy!

• Slice, serve, and enjoy! Pair it with a drizzle of ketchup or hot sauce if you like. And if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with some chopped parsley or chives.

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How to Serve

This German Baked Eggs casserole is so versatile and delicious on its own, but if you’re looking to make a full brunch spread, here are some ideas:

• Classic Brunch Plate: Serve warm slices alongside crispy beef bacon or turkey sausage, fresh fruit, and toasted bread or biscuits.

• Breakfast Sandwich: Slice a piece and tuck it between a toasted English muffin or bagel with a slice of avocado or tomato.

• Veggie-Friendly Brunch: Pair it with a bright, fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter, balanced meal.

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Pairing Suggestions

To make this meal even more amazing, try serving it with:

• Freshly Brewed Coffee or Tea: The creamy, cheesy flavors of the casserole pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or a comforting herbal tea.

• Smoothies: A refreshing fruit smoothie balances the richness of the dish with something light and fruity.

• Breakfast Sides: Buttered toast, croissants, or even a simple fruit salad add a lovely touch.

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Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Want to make this ahead of time? You sure can!

  • To Freeze Unbaked: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

  • To Freeze Baked: Let the casserole cool completely before slicing. Store slices in airtight containers or wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating

• From the Fridge: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or the entire casserole in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until heated through.

• From Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 30 minutes or until hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making this German Baked Eggs casserole is pretty straightforward, but there are a few potential pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Not Draining Excess Moisture from Hash Browns:

   • Using frozen hash browns straight from the freezer can release excess moisture and make your casserole watery. Make sure to thaw and pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the mixture.

2. Overmixing the Ingredients:

   • When mixing the ingredients, especially after adding the baking powder and flour, overmixing can cause the texture to become dense instead of fluffy. Gently fold everything together until just combined.

3. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese:

   • While pre-shredded cheese can save time, it’s often coated with anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best, creamiest texture, shred your Monterey Jack cheese from a block.

4. Skipping the Butter:

   • Butter adds essential richness to the dish. Make sure it’s melted and fully incorporated into the mixture for even texture and flavor.

5. Underbaking or Overbaking:

   • The casserole should be golden and slightly firm in the center when done. Underbaking leaves it runny, while overbaking dries it out. Check at the 50-minute mark and adjust time as needed.

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Pro Tips for the Best German Baked Eggs

Ready to take your casserole to the next level? Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:

1. Add Veggies for Extra Flavor:

   • Toss in some sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach to boost both flavor and nutrition. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies if you’re serving this to picky eaters.

2. Use Full-Fat Cottage Cheese:

   • While low-fat options work, using full-fat cottage cheese makes the casserole ultra-rich and creamy. Trust me, it’s worth the extra calories.

3. Customize Your Cheese Blend:

   • Monterey Jack cheese is amazing for its mild creaminess, but you can mix it up with cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack if you like a bit of heat.

4. Prepare Ahead for Easy Mornings:

   • You can assemble this casserole the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Perfect for hassle-free holiday mornings or brunches.

5. Garnish for Presentation:

   • Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top right before serving. It adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that everyone will appreciate.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just swap the flour for a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose mix.

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
A: Yes, but it requires a little extra work. Grate the potatoes, then soak and rinse them to remove excess starch. Pat them dry before adding to the mixture.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop a portion in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Q: Can I add meat to this casserole?
A: Sure! Cooked and crumbled turkey sausage, beef bacon, or diced chicken work great. Just cook them before adding to the mix.

Q: What if I don’t have Monterey Jack cheese?
A: No worries! You can use mozzarella, cheddar, or even gouda. Monterey Jack just offers a creamy, mild flavor that works perfectly here.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes! Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until hot.

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Conclusion & Call to Action

And there you have it! A cozy, cheesy, irresistibly fluffy German Baked Eggs casserole that’s bound to become a staple at your brunch table. Whether you’re whipping it up for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to an easy, satisfying breakfast, this dish delivers big-time comfort with minimal effort.

I can’t wait to see how your casserole turns out! When you make it, be sure to snap a photo and share it on social media. Tag me and let me know what fun additions you tried—maybe a little bit of turkey sausage or some fresh herbs sprinkled on top? Whatever your spin, I’m excited to hear about it.

Happy cooking and happy brunching!

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