Embracing the flavorful and nutritious, high-protein breakfast bars can be a delightful culinary challenge that pays off with a delicious reward. Did you know that a serving of these bars can pack a whopping 21 grams of protein? Imagine starting your day with a bite that tastes like savory comfort food and feels like an excellent choice for your health. With a crispy cheese topping and a tender, veggie-filled base, these high-protein bars are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Easy High Protein Egg Broccoli Breakfast Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, High Protein
Description
Delicious and nutritious breakfast bars packed with protein, perfect for meal prep and a satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients
- 2 Teaspoons Olive Oil
- 1 ½ Cups Spinach, chopped
- 8 Chicken Sausage Breakfast Links, pre-cooked and sliced
- 1 Cup Broccoli Florets, fresh or frozen
- 2 Teaspoons Oregano
- 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
- 8 Eggs
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheese of choice
- 1 Tablespoon Oat Flour (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped sausage, spinach, broccoli, oregano, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook until the spinach wilts and the broccoli softens. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half of the cheese, and oat flour (if using).
- Combine the sausage and vegetable mixture with the egg mixture.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes or until set.
- Cool, slice into bars, and serve.
Notes
These bars can be refrigerated for a week or frozen for a month. Reheat at 350°F for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 440mg
Why This Easy High Protein Egg Broccoli Breakfast Bars Never Fails
Breakfast should be the most satisfying meal of the day, and these Easy High Protein Egg Broccoli Breakfast Bars nail it every time. They are not only simple to put together but also elevate your morning routine with wholesome ingredients. You’ll learn that this recipe is a fantastic way to make the most out of your mornings without compromising flavor or nutrition. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep, serving as a great backup when mornings get hectic.
Ingredient Lineup
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these protein-packed bars:
- 2 Teaspoons Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing and adds healthy fats.
- 1 ½ Cups Spinach, chopped: A nutrient-dense addition that packs iron and vitamins.
- 8 Chicken Sausage Breakfast Links, pre-cooked and sliced: Packed with flavor and protein, they serve as the meaty backbone of this recipe.
- 1 Cup Broccoli Florets, fresh or frozen: A delightful crunch that’s rich in fiber and vitamin C.
- 2 Teaspoons Oregano: This aromatic herb adds a burst of flavor.
- 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder: Enhances the overall taste profile with a subtle sweetness.
- ½ Teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For a hint of heat to perk up your palate.
- 8 Eggs: The star ingredient, providing protein and structure.
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheese of choice: Adds creaminess and a beautiful golden crust.
- 1 Tablespoon Oat Flour (optional): A light binder if you want extra fluffiness.
Let’s Cook
Ready to roll up your sleeves? Follow these easy steps:
- Start by adding your olive oil to a pan on the stove and heat over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add in your chopped breakfast sausage, spinach, broccoli, oregano, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper. Cook until the spinach has wilted and the broccoli has softened, then remove it from the heat and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half of your cheese, and the oat flour if you are using it. This mixture will give your bars a moist and fluffy texture.
- Once the mixture comes together, add in your sausage, spinach, and broccoli mixture and mix to combine it with the eggs.
- Transfer your mixture to a greased 8×8 or 9×11 dish, and top with your remaining cheese for that glorious cheesy finish!
- Finally, bake at 350°F for 35 minutes or until the eggs have set and the cheese is fully melted. The kitchen will smell divine!
- Once it is cooled, slice it into 8 bars; serve and enjoy! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week, or in the freezer for one month.
Nutrition Breakdown
In one serving of these delightful bars, you can expect approximately:
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: About 250
- Protein: 21 grams
- Carbohydrates: 9 grams
- Fat: 16 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
These bars offer a robust profile of protein, thanks largely to the eggs and chicken sausage, making them an ideal choice to kick-start your day.
Perfect Pairings
These Easy High Protein Egg Broccoli Breakfast Bars shine on their own but are fantastic when paired with a fresh fruit salad or some Greek yogurt for a creamy balance. They’re particularly delightful in the cooler months when served warm alongside a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea. Think of hosting a brunch where these bars steal the spotlight, complemented by your favorite pastries or fresh juices.
How to Store It Right
To keep these bars fresh and tasty, let them cool completely before storing. They can be refrigerated in an airtight container for about one week or frozen for up to a month. For optimal reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or use a microwave for short bursts of 30 seconds until warm. A tip: If reheating, cover them with a damp paper towel to ensure they don’t dry out.
Pro Tips
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to swap in feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist!
- Add More Veggies: Sneak in grated carrots or bell peppers to ramp up the nutritional content even more.
- Make It Ahead: These bars freeze beautifully, making them perfect for grab-and-go mornings.
- Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or chives before serving can elevate the flavor profile.
- Experiment with Spices: Try adding a pinch of paprika for a smoky depth.
Flavor Experiments
Want to switch it up? Here are a few fun ideas:
- Seasonal Twist: Add roasted butternut squash in the fall for sweetness and vibrant color.
- Gourmet Variation: Try mixing in some crumbled blue cheese and sautéed mushrooms for a savory delight.
- Playful Option: Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes and basil for a Mediterranean flair.
Learn from My Mistakes
Even the best chefs have their flops. Here’s what to avoid:
- Skipping Ingredients: Don’t omit the spices—they elevate the dish. Add a mix of herbs and spices for complexity.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bars; overbaked eggs can turn rubbery. Trust your instincts and check for a slight jiggle before pulling them out.
- Ignoring Resting Time: Allow the bars to cool—this makes cutting them a lot easier and helps flavors meld.
- Not Pre-greasing: Always grease your baking dish to prevent sticking; trust me, scraping will not be fun!
- Serving Too Hot: Let cool slightly to avoid burns and to allow the flavors to fully develop.
What to Do with Leftovers
Leftover bars don’t have to go to waste! Here are some inventive ways to use them:
- Brunch Casserole: Chop them up and layer into a new casserole dish with more eggs and veggies for a brunch feast.
- Lunch Wrap: Sliced bars can be rolled up in whole grain tortillas with greens for a quick lunch on the go.
- Snack Attack: Pair bar slices with a dollop of avocado or hummus for a filling snack that still packs protein.
Quick Questions
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Feel free to prepare the mixture the night before and bake in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
What can I substitute for chicken sausage?
Ground turkey or a plant-based sausage is a great alternative if you want to tweak the recipe for dietary preferences.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free oat flour and ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I know when the bars are done?
Look for set edges and a slight jiggle in the center—they’ll firm up as they cool.
With all these insights, you’re ready to conquer the kitchen and impress family or guests with these Easy High Protein Egg Broccoli Breakfast Bars. Enjoy the deliciousness!