Savory Egg and Cheese Loaf
This Savory Egg and Cheese Loaf is an incredibly versatile and easy recipe that you can enjoy as a breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of eggs, cheese, and almond flour creates a light, fluffy, and savory loaf that's perfect on its own or with added veggies and meats. It’s low-carb, keto-friendly, and a great way to get a high-protein, flavorful meal!
Ingredients:
6 large eggs
Eggs are the base of this recipe, providing structure, protein, and moisture to the loaf. They also help bind the other ingredients together and give it a rich flavor.1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Cheese not only adds flavor but also contributes to the loaf's texture, making it slightly creamy and golden when baked. Cheddar gives a sharper flavor, while mozzarella provides a gooey, mild texture. Feel free to use either or combine both for a richer taste.1/2 cup almond flour
Almond flour replaces traditional flour and is a great low-carb and gluten-free option. It helps give the loaf structure without adding unnecessary carbs. It also lends a slightly nutty flavor that complements the eggs and cheese.1/2 tsp baking powder
Baking powder helps the loaf rise slightly, creating a lighter and fluffier texture. This is particularly important since the almond flour doesn't have gluten to provide structure.Salt and pepper to taste
Basic seasonings are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the eggs and cheese. You can adjust the salt and pepper based on your taste preference.Optional: diced veggies or cooked meats
To customize the loaf to your liking, you can add diced veggies like spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions. You could also add cooked meats like bacon, sausage, or ham for extra protein and flavor. These optional ingredients make the loaf more filling and versatile.
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the loaf, ensuring it cooks through evenly while achieving a lightly golden crust. Grease a loaf pan (8x4 or 9x5 inches) with cooking spray or butter to prevent the loaf from sticking once it’s baked.Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until smooth and slightly frothy. This step incorporates air into the eggs, which helps make the loaf light and fluffy. Add the shredded cheese, almond flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk again to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. The mixture should be thick and well-combined.Optional Add-ins:
If you’re using diced veggies (like bell peppers, spinach, or onions) or cooked meats (such as cooked bacon, sausage, or ham), fold them into the egg mixture gently. Adding these ingredients will give your loaf added flavor and texture. Keep in mind that if you're adding veggies, make sure to chop them finely so they distribute evenly in the loaf.Pour into the Loaf Pan:
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out with a spatula to smooth the top. This ensures even cooking and a nice presentation once it’s baked. Make sure the mixture fills the pan about 3/4 of the way to allow room for rising.Bake:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf is set and lightly golden on top. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean, the loaf is ready. If the toothpick comes out with some wet egg mixture, bake for an additional 5 minutes, checking again.Cool and Slice:
Once the loaf is fully baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This allows the loaf to firm up, making it easier to slice. After it’s cooled slightly, carefully remove the loaf from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Slice it into thick pieces.Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the loaf warm on its own, or pair it with a side salad or some fresh avocado for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a dipping sauce or condiment, such as salsa, ranch, or hot sauce, depending on your taste.
Recipe Notes:
Texture Tips: If you like a more traditional, bready texture, you can add a teaspoon of psyllium husk to the batter. This will give it a slightly firmer, bread-like consistency.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to change up the flavor. Swiss or provolone would be great if you prefer a milder flavor. Parmesan or Gruyère could add a more sophisticated, sharp taste.
Storage: This savory egg loaf stores well. You can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds, or warm them in a pan for a few minutes to restore some of the crispy edges.
Freezing: If you want to keep it for longer, slice the loaf and freeze the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat, just pop the slices in the microwave or reheat in the oven.
Customizing the Loaf: This is a great base recipe that you can customize to fit your preferences. Try adding herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme for extra flavor. You can also experiment with spices such as paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder for an added kick.
Make it a Full Meal: This egg and cheese loaf makes a wonderful base for breakfast or lunch. You can enjoy it alongside a fresh salad, some crispy bacon, or even some avocado slices for a filling meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice):
- Calories: 180
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 14g
This Savory Egg and Cheese Loaf is a simple and delicious recipe that works for any occasion. It’s great for meal prep, an easy breakfast, or a light dinner. By adding your favorite fillings, you can make it uniquely yours and tailor it to your specific taste preferences. Enjoy this healthy and hearty dish!
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