Description of this recipe
This carnivore breakfast casserole is the ultimate protein-packed meal to kickstart your day. It’s simple, satisfying, and adheres strictly to the carnivore diet, featuring ground beef, eggs, cheese, and optional carnivore-friendly additions like bacon, sausage, organ meats, and bone marrow. This casserole is perfect for meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or simply ensuring you have a nutritious and delicious breakfast ready to go.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity, convenience, and incredible flavor. If you’re committed to a carnivore diet, this is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying breakfast that keeps you full and energized for hours. It’s also incredibly versatile – you can easily customize it with your favorite carnivore-approved ingredients. Moreover, it’s an excellent way to incorporate nutrient-dense foods like organ meats into your diet in a palatable way. The creamy, cheesy texture combined with the savory ground beef creates a taste sensation that will make you look forward to breakfast every day! It is a brilliant way to meal prep a breakfast that will keep you full all morning.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (115g) shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt, to taste (optional)
- Butter or beef tallow, for greasing
- Optional (still carnivore-approved):
- Cooked bacon or sausage
- Organ meats (e.g., finely chopped liver)
- Bone marrow
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Thoroughly grease an 8×8-inch casserole dish with butter or beef tallow. This prevents the casserole from sticking and adds a rich flavor to the edges. Ensure the dish is evenly coated to make serving easier.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks to ensure even browning. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, if desired, though leaving a little adds to the overall flavor and moisture of the casserole. Season with a pinch of salt, if preferred, to enhance the beef’s natural flavor.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until smooth and well combined. This creates the custard base for the casserole, which will bind all the ingredients together and give it a creamy texture. Make sure there are no lumps of egg yolk remaining for the best consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the cooked ground beef evenly across the bottom of the greased casserole dish. If you are using any optional ingredients like cooked bacon, sausage, or organ meats, distribute them over the ground beef layer. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and nutrients. Pour the egg and cream mixture (the custard) evenly over the beef and any other additions. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and create a golden, bubbly crust during baking.
Step 5: Bake
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. The casserole is done when the center is just set (i.e., no longer jiggly) and the top is golden brown and bubbling. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the casserole with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve. Resting also helps to redistribute the moisture, preventing it from being too runny.
Cooking Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm, straight from the oven.
- Pair with a side of rendered beef fat or bone broth for added nutrients and flavor.
- Enjoy as a standalone breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven for a quick and convenient meal.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- If using organ meats, ensure they are finely chopped or ground for even distribution and a less noticeable texture.
- Feel free to experiment with other carnivore-approved ingredients like shrimp or fish.
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- To meal prep, assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
25-30 minutes
Total Time:
40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g per serving
- Sodium: Varies depending on salt added and cheese used
Conclusion
This Hearty Carnivore Breakfast Casserole is a game-changer for anyone following a carnivore diet. It’s a delicious, nutritious, and convenient way to start your day with a protein-packed meal that keeps you satisfied for hours. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your carnivore kitchen. Enjoy the versatility and customize it with your favorite carnivore-approved ingredients to create a breakfast that’s perfect for you.
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble it completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s very cold.
Q2: What other types of cheese can I use?
A: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can experiment with other carnivore-approved cheeses like provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp parmesan for a bolder flavor. Just ensure that the cheese you choose is a full-fat variety to adhere to the carnivore diet principles.
Q3: How can I incorporate organ meats without overpowering the flavor?
A: The key is to use organ meats in moderation and to prepare them properly. Finely chop or grind the organ meats (like liver or heart) into very small pieces. You can also sauté them lightly before adding them to the casserole to mellow out their flavor. Start with a small amount (e.g., 1-2 ounces) and adjust to your preference.
Q4: Can I add any vegetables to this casserole?
A: Since this is a carnivore diet recipe, the focus is on animal-based products. Adding vegetables would technically deviate from the strict carnivore diet. However, if you are following a more relaxed version of the diet, you could consider adding small amounts of non-starchy vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, but remember this will no longer be a true carnivore recipe.
Q5: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: To store leftover casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a little extra cheese on top before reheating can help to refresh the flavor and texture.
