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If you’re looking to start your day with a boost that’s both satisfying and packed with nutrition, this High Protein Vegetarian Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe is your new go-to. Each sandwich combines fluffy baked eggs loaded with greens and creamy cottage cheese, sharp cheddar’s rich tang, and savory vegetarian sausage nestled between perfectly toasted English muffins. It’s a hearty breakfast that fills you up and keeps your energy steady, all while celebrating vibrant flavors and textures that make mornings something to truly look forward to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create a breakfast sandwich bursting with flavor, nutrition, and satisfying texture. Each one plays an essential role, from protein-packed eggs and sausage to fresh broccoli for a touch of green goodness and sharp cheddar for richness.
- 6 large eggs: The star protein that forms the fluffy base of our egg bake, giving each sandwich structure and substance.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the eggs and vegetables, balancing flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a gentle sweetness and aromatic lift.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: A little spice that awakens your palate with every bite.
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets: Brings color, crunch, and a fresh earthiness that pairs beautifully with eggs.
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese: Adds creaminess and boosts the protein content, making the sandwiches extra hearty.
- 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 oz each): For that glorious melt and tangy richness that elevates every sandwich.
- 6 vegetarian sausage patties: Offers savory, smoky flavor and a satisfying bite; my favorite is Morning Star Farm brand.
- 6 English muffins: Toasted until golden and crispy, they hold the sandwich together perfectly.
- Cooking spray: To lightly grease the baking dish, ensuring your egg bake releases easily and cooks evenly.
How to Make High Protein Vegetarian Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F. This moderate temperature allows the eggs to cook gently, keeping them tender and fluffy. Lightly spray a 10.5 x 7.5-inch baking dish with cooking spray so your egg mixture won’t stick later on. This small step makes all the difference when it’s time to slice your bake into perfect portions.
Step 2: Whisk the Eggs and Seasonings
Crack the eggs into a medium bowl and add the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk everything together with a fork until the mixture is fully beaten and smooth. This thorough whisking ensures an even consistency and helps the spices distribute uniformly, so every bite is packed with delicious flavor.
Step 3: Layer in the Broccoli and Cottage Cheese
Pour the egg mixture into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped broccoli evenly over the top, then gently press it down so the florets sit just beneath the surface of the eggs. Next, dollop the cottage cheese on top — about six heaping tablespoons — spreading it evenly so each slice of your final bake contains a creamy burst of this tangy cheese.
Step 4: Bake and Prepare the Sausage Patties
Pop the egg bake into the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, until the eggs are set and firm but still moist. While the bake is cooking, you can prepare the vegetarian sausage patties. I like to give them a quick 30-second zap in the microwave to thaw, then brown them in a skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant. This adds that irresistible smoky, savory element to your sandwiches.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Once your egg bake has cooled for a few minutes, slice it into six even pieces. Toast the English muffins until they have a lovely golden crispness, then build your sandwiches by layering one egg slice on the bottom, topping it with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese, and then placing a browned vegetarian sausage patty on top. Cap it all off with the top half of the English muffin. Feel free to add extras like a dash of hot sauce if you want some heat!
How to Serve High Protein Vegetarian Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Consider adding fresh greens like arugula or spinach for a peppery crunch. A few slices of ripe avocado bring buttery creaminess that beautifully complements the sharp cheddar and savory sausage. A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a swipe of tangy mustard can add exciting flavor contrasts that take your sandwich to the next level.
Side Dishes
Pair these sandwiches with some fresh fruit like berries or sliced oranges for a bright burst of sweetness that balances the savory components. Roasted potatoes or a simple mixed green salad can round out the meal with extra texture and color, making it a full and satisfying breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, consider slicing the sandwiches into smaller sliders so everyone can sample a bite. Wrapping them in parchment paper or parchment-lined baskets adds charm for a picnic-style presentation. You could even lightly grill the assembled sandwiches on a panini press to melt the cheddar perfectly and add a crispy crunch to your English muffins.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These sandwiches keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days. Once they’ve cooled completely, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, parchment paper, or aluminum foil to preserve freshness and prevent any moisture loss. Having breakfast ready to go during busy mornings has never been easier!
Freezing
To keep your High Protein Vegetarian Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe on hand for longer, freeze wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure they’re well-sealed to avoid freezer burn and preserve that delicious flavor and texture.
Reheating
For best results, thaw sandwiches overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm them in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 1-2 minutes, or use a toaster oven for a crispier muffin exterior. Just be careful not to overheat to keep the eggs tender and the cheese delightfully melty.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini all work wonderfully and bring their own unique flavors and textures. Just chop them finely so they cook evenly with the eggs.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
The recipe is vegetarian, but not gluten-free as English muffins typically contain gluten. You can switch to gluten-free English muffins to make it safe for gluten-free diets without sacrificing deliciousness.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
This particular recipe relies heavily on eggs, cheese, and vegetarian sausage, so it’s not vegan as written. However, you can experiment with plant-based egg substitutes, vegan cheese, and vegan sausage patties for a similar effect.
How can I add more protein to this breakfast sandwich?
The eggs, cottage cheese, and sausage already make it very protein-rich, but you could add a spoonful of hummus, smoked tofu slices, or even a spread of nut butter for an extra boost if you want to get creative.
Can I prepare the egg bake in advance?
Yes! The egg bake can be made the night before, cooled, and refrigerated. Just warm it gently or assemble the sandwiches fresh in the morning for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t beat how satisfying and nutritious these High Protein Vegetarian Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe are. They’re proof that breakfast can be wholesome, flavorful, and quick once you have a little prep underway. I hope you’ll try making a batch soon and see how easily they become a favorite morning ritual for you and everyone at your table.
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High Protein Vegetarian Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These High Protein Vegetarian Breakfast Sandwiches are a nutritious and satisfying way to start your day. Packed with eggs, cottage cheese, broccoli, sharp cheddar, and vegetarian sausage patties, they offer a balanced blend of protein and flavor. Perfectly baked and assembled on toasted English muffins, these sandwiches are great for meal prep and can be enjoyed fresh, refrigerated, or frozen for convenience.
Ingredients
Egg Bake
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
Assembly
- 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese, about 1 oz each
- 6 vegetarian sausage patties (such as Morning Star Farms brand)
- 6 English muffins
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Spray a 10.5 x 7.5-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside to prepare for the egg bake.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: Crack the eggs into a medium bowl. Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly with a fork until fully combined. Pour the beaten eggs into the greased baking dish.
- Add Broccoli and Cottage Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the chopped broccoli over the top of the eggs. Gently push the broccoli down so it is covered slightly by the eggs. Spoon the cottage cheese over the broccoli, distributing about six heaping tablespoons evenly. Use a spoon to spread it out gently.
- Bake the Egg Dish: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the eggs until firm and completely cooked, approximately 40 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Cut the baked egg mixture into six equal slices.
- Cook Sausage Patties: While the egg bake is cooking, thaw the vegetarian sausage patties briefly in the microwave (about 30 seconds). Then brown them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and slightly crisp on the outside.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Toast the English muffins. Layer one egg bake slice on the bottom half of each muffin, add one slice of sharp cheddar cheese, then the browned vegetarian sausage patty, and top with the muffin crown. Add optional ingredients like hot sauce if desired.
- Cool and Store: Allow the sandwiches to cool completely. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, parchment paper, or tin foil. They can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months for meal prep convenience.
Notes
- For even cooking, finely chop broccoli so it embeds well within the baked eggs.
- You can substitute vegetarian sausage with any other plant-based sausage of your preference.
- To reheat frozen sandwiches, unwrap and microwave on medium power until warm or toast briefly in an oven.
- Feel free to add extras such as hot sauce, avocado, or spinach when assembling for more flavor and nutrition.
