High-Protein Cottage Cheese & Turkey Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Hi, I’m Sarah Jansen—a traveler and food blogger who has eaten her way across bustling city cafés, quiet countryside kitchens, and beachside brunch spots around the world. And yet, no matter where I go, I keep coming back to one thing: the beauty of a hearty, high-protein breakfast.

Today, I’m sharing one of my absolute go-to recipes: a High-Protein Cottage Cheese & Turkey Sausage Breakfast Casserole. This dish has everything I crave in the morning—flavor, balance, and staying power. Packed with lean protein, creamy cottage cheese, wholesome eggs, and savory turkey sausage, it’s the kind of breakfast that feels indulgent while still being wonderfully nutritious.

This casserole is perfect for anyone trying to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. It’s meal-prep friendly, easy to customize, and ideal for feeding a family or fueling your week. Think of it as the perfect marriage between comfort food and mindful eating.

Overview of Cottage Cheese & Turkey Sausage Casserole

The Cottage Cheese & Turkey Sausage Breakfast Casserole is more than just another egg bake. The magic lies in its texture and balance of flavors: the creaminess of cottage cheese, the tender fluffiness of eggs, the heartiness of turkey sausage, and the subtle bite from fresh vegetables.

Unlike heavy breakfast casseroles loaded with cream, butter, and high-fat meats, this recipe focuses on clean protein and wholesome ingredients. Cottage cheese adds not just creaminess, but also a major protein boost. Turkey sausage keeps things flavorful while being leaner than pork sausage. And fresh vegetables bring color, nutrition, and freshness.

It’s:

• Protein-rich (over 25g per serving)
• Meal-prep ready (lasts up to 4 days in the fridge)
• Family-friendly (everyone from kids to grandparents loves it)
• Customizable (easy to swap veggies or add spices)

This dish is ideal for Sunday meal prep, holiday brunches, or simply when you want to start your day with a satisfying, no-fuss breakfast.

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese & Turkey Sausage Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible casserole:

• 12 large eggs – the base of the casserole, fluffy and protein-packed
• 2 cups cottage cheese – adds creaminess and extra protein
• 1 lb ground turkey sausage – lean but full of savory flavor
• 1 medium onion, finely diced – brings sweetness and depth
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped – colorful and vitamin-rich
• 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen, chopped) – for extra greens
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese – melty goodness
• ½ cup milk (any kind) – helps the eggs stay fluffy
• 1 tsp garlic powder – for seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika – adds warmth and smokiness
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil – to grease the baking dish

Optional add-ins: mushrooms, zucchini, jalapeños, or herbs like parsley and basil.

How to Make Cottage Cheese & Turkey Sausage Casserole

Making this casserole is straightforward, but the layering technique ensures it bakes evenly and holds together beautifully. Think of it as assembling a savory cake, each layer adding depth.

1. Cook the sausage and vegetables. In a skillet, brown the turkey sausage until cooked through. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened. Stir in spinach until wilted.
2. Mix the eggs. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the casserole. Spread the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly across a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly.
4. Bake. Place in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set.
5. Cool slightly before slicing. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes, then cut into squares and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray or grease with olive oil.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 6–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Vegetables.
Stir in diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Toss in chopped spinach, cooking until just wilted. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Whisk Eggs.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole.
Spread the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly in the casserole dish. Pour egg mixture over it. Top with shredded cheese.

Step 6: Bake.
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes. The casserole is ready when the center is firm and a knife inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Serve.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm, or let cool and store for meal prep.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 40–45 minutes
• Total time: ~1 hour

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 8 servings)

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

This casserole is an excellent high-protein, low-carb breakfast option that keeps you full and energized.

Serving of Cottage Cheese & Turkey Sausage Casserole

• Classic: Serve warm with a side of whole-grain toast or avocado slices.
• Light & Fresh: Add a fruit salad or fresh berries.
• Brunch-Ready: Pair with mimosas or fresh-pressed juice for gatherings.
• Meal-Prep Style: Cut into squares, pack in containers, and refrigerate for quick grab-and-go breakfasts.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, feta, or goat cheese for a flavor twist.
• Spice It Up: Add jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or hot sauce for heat.
• Veggie Boost: Mushrooms, zucchini, and broccoli all work beautifully.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cottage cheese and cheese alternatives.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
• Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze slices for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

This High-Protein Cottage Cheese & Turkey Sausage Breakfast Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a lifestyle dish. It shows you don’t need to sacrifice flavor for nutrition, and that meal prep can be exciting instead of boring.

As someone who is always on the go, I love having a breakfast that’s both travel-friendly and nourishing. It’s a recipe I return to time and again, whether I’m hosting brunch for friends or simply need a quick breakfast before heading out on my next adventure.

Cooking should feel joyful, not overwhelming, and this casserole strikes that perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and nourishment. Trust me—make it once, and it’ll become a weekly staple in your kitchen.