Green Eggs & Ham: An Egg Bake Recipe

Green Chili Egg Bake

March 2 is quickly approaching. If you do not know what that means, perhaps ask your grade schooler? March 2 is affectionately known as “Dr. Seuss Day” and marks the author’s birthday. (Author/editor’s note: I only know this, because it happens to be my birthday as well!).

With this date fast approaching, I thought now would be a fun time to share a personal and household favorite recipe involving green eggs (more specifically… eggs and green chilis) and ham if desired. If you are interested in ways to add or “sneak” veggies, protein, or turmeric into your kid’s diet (or let’s be real, YOUR diet), try this recipe! In some parts of the country, this type of dish is referred to as an “egg bake.” In other regions, it is known as an “egg casserole” or “breakfast casserole.” From quiches and frittatas to egg bakes and egg casseroles, baked egg dishes are a culinary staple for many. It is easy to see why. They offer a great amount of protein for sustained energy and are incredibly versatile. Simply add veggies and/or meats of choice. They are also easy to prepare in large batches, simplifying meal prep or feeding a hungry crowd.

Versatility and variations: I love exploring different cheeses, veggies, and meat combinations. Each will render a completely new flavor and experience. The ratios in this recipe are also flexible and user friendly. For instance, many recipes call for 10 eggs and 3-4 cups of shredded cheese. For simplicity, I use a whole dozen eggs and a whole 12 oz bag of shredded cheese. Personally, my favorite variation of this dish is the original green chili recipe with additional onions and bell peppers added (to boost my veggie intake). Sometimes I change it up and add onions and spinach instead. If you are a garlic lover, garlic is another delicious addition. I always opt to include turmeric as it naturally brightens the yellow color and offers some additional health benefits.

Protein content: To paint a picture of protein potential, I have worked out the following based on a 12 oz bag of shredded pepperjack cheese (96g protein), 16 oz container of cottage cheese (48g protein), and 12 eggs (72g protein). This totals 216g protein per batch (keep in mind this number could go up if meats are added). If the batch is divided into 12 servings, each serving will render 18g of protein. If the batch is divided into 9 servings, each serving will offer 24g protein! According to my calculations, this might just be your solution to a quick, protein-packed breakfast.

Balancing the plate: Consider serving with a fiber source such as a whole grain (i.e. a side of savory grits, oatmeal, or a piece of toast) and some color (fruits or veggies!). These will add other nutrients and balance the plate with some much needed carbohydrates.

Food science fact (cooking tip!): Eggs will continue cooking or baking for a bit beyond removing from a heat source. Therefore, it is recommended to remove a smidge prior to being fully “done.” The proteins will continue to denature (cook) as heat dissipates from the dish.

Here we have some of the stars of this recipe: Protein-packed ingredients and green chilis (or Salsa Verde)

Green Chili Egg Bake

Ingredients:

• 1 pint cottage cheese (one 16 oz container)

• 10–12 eggs

• 3-4 cups of pepper jack cheese, shredded (one 12 oz bag)

• 2 (4 oz) cans green chilies, diced (or one 12 oz jar of Trader Joe’s Salsa Verde)

• ½ cup flour

• ¼-½ cup butter, melted (half stick to a full stick)

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.

3. Add remaining ingredients: Cottage cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, diced green chilies, melted butter, flour, baking powder, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully incorporated.

4. Pour the mixture into 9x13-inch baking dish.and spread evenly.

5. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

6. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious and protein-packed green chili egg bake! For the full "Green Eggs and Ham" effect (peak festiveness), incorporate ham into the recipe or serve with a side of ham. Finally, in honor of Dr. Seuss and this recipe, we feel it is appropriate to also serve you a side of poetry.

Green Chili Egg Bake, a poem (co-written with ChatGPT):

Oh, eggs and cheese, a perfect pair,

With tangy chilis in the air!

A little butter, a little bake,

A golden dish that’s yours to make!

Whisk it fast or whisk it slow,

Into the oven it must go!

Turmeric bright, a golden hue,

A bite of protein—just for you!

So grab a fork, don’t wait, don’t stop,

This eggy bake will make you hop!

A cheesy, rich, perfect treat,

For breakfast—or anytime you eat! 🥚

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