Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme

Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme Recipe - Native American Cuisine

Region / culture: Native America, USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the richness of eggs with the savory flavors of sausage, green bell pepper, and green onions, all topped with melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. The combination of ingredients not only makes it delicious but also nutritious, providing a good balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

History

The concept of baked scrambled eggs has been around for decades, evolving from the traditional stovetop scrambled eggs. The addition of vegetables, meats, and cheese transforms it into a more substantial meal. This particular recipe, with its combination of sausage, green bell pepper, green onions, and cheese, likely has its roots in American breakfast cuisine, where hearty, filling meals are favored to start the day. Over time, it has been adapted and modified by home cooks to include various ingredients based on personal preferences and dietary requirements.

Ingredients

0.5 cup diced green bell pepper
2 sliced green onions
0.5 lb (227 g) sausage
1 cup water
0.33 cup instant nonfat dry milk + 1 cup water (or 1 cup nonfat milk)
0.75 cup egg mix + 1.5 cup water (or 6 eggs)
0.5 cup grated cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
In a non-stick pan, brown the bell pepper and green onions using cooking spray. Set them aside.
Cook the sausage in a skillet until crumbly. Pour out any excess grease. Mix it with the bell peppers and onions.
Prepare the egg mixture using 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of water; mix thoroughly.
Add the egg mixture to the sausage mixture and mix well.
Pour the mixture into an 8 x 8 inches glass baking dish that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Top it with grated cheese.
Bake at 375°F, turning once or twice, until it is cooked thoroughly.

Variations

To lower the sodium content: Omit the sausage or use low-sodium meat, such as lean cooked ground beef or ground bison.
To lower the fat content: Omit cheese and/or sausage or use a low-fat sausage.
Add salsa, bacon bits, diced mushrooms, white onions in place of green onions, cut up diced pork, etc. (Eliminate sausage for vegetarian option)
This recipe is highly adaptable. Consider the following variations:
Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a healthier option.
Add mushrooms, tomatoes, or spinach for extra vegetables.
Substitute cheddar cheese with feta, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Whisk the eggs thoroughly with the milk and water to ensure a fluffy texture.

- Cook the sausage until it's nicely browned to enhance its flavor and texture in the dish.

- Use a non-stick pan for sautéing the vegetables to minimize the need for additional fats.

- Be sure to drain the sausage well to avoid a greasy final product.

- Experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavors and textures.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete meal. It pairs well with whole-grain toast or English muffins for those not following a low-carb diet.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the scrambled eggs in the oven provides a fluffy and evenly cooked texture that's hard to achieve on the stovetop. Be sure to preheat the oven for even cooking and use a glass baking dish for best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, consider the following substitutions:

- Almond milk or soy milk can replace the instant nonfat dry milk.

- Egg whites or a liquid egg substitute can be used in place of whole eggs to reduce cholesterol.

- Vegan cheese can substitute for regular cheese for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the sausage, bell pepper, and green onions mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply mix with the egg mixture and proceed with the recipe. This can save time during busy mornings.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the baked scrambled eggs with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Serving it in individual ramekins can also make for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a sparkling beverage can complement the richness of the eggs and sausage. For a non-alcoholic option, consider freshly squeezed orange juice or a tomato-based vegetable juice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Avoid overcooking to maintain the best texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme contains approximately 300-400 calories, making it a moderately calorie-dense meal. It's filling and satisfying, providing the energy needed to start the day.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the green bell pepper and green onions. The total carbohydrate content is approximately 5-10 grams per serving, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the sausage, eggs, and cheese. Using lean sausage and reducing the amount of cheese can lower the fat content. However, the fats present are essential for a balanced diet, contributing to satiety and flavor. The total fat content is approximately 20-30 grams per serving, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Proteins

Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme is an excellent source of high-quality protein, thanks to the eggs and sausage. The total protein content is around 20-25 grams per serving, making it an ideal meal option for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A (from the eggs and green bell pepper), Vitamin C (from the green bell pepper), calcium (from the cheese and milk), and iron (from the sausage). These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining good health and supporting bodily functions.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe include eggs, milk (from the cheese and dry milk), and potentially gluten (depending on the sausage used). Those with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients should make appropriate substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme is a balanced and nutritious meal, providing a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's relatively low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or build muscle mass.

Summary

Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious meal that's perfect for any time of day. With its balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals, it's a wholesome choice for those looking for a satisfying and healthy meal. The recipe is easily adaptable to suit various dietary needs and preferences, making it a staple for any home cook.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something new to try. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and frayed pieces of paper, I came across a small, weathered envelope tucked away in the back. Curious, I opened it and found a handwritten note from my dear friend, Margaret.

Margaret and I had been friends for years, sharing recipes and cooking tips with each other. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and techniques. In her note, she described a dish called Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme that she had learned from her grandmother. She raved about how delicious it was, and how it had become a staple in her household.

Intrigued, I decided to give the recipe a try. The ingredients were simple – eggs, milk, cheese, and a few seasonings – but the method was unique. Instead of scrambling the eggs on the stovetop, you baked them in the oven, resulting in a light and fluffy texture that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I followed Margaret's instructions carefully, whisking the eggs with milk and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg. I folded in shredded cheddar cheese and poured the mixture into a greased baking dish. Then, I popped it into the oven and waited anxiously for the eggs to set.

As the dish baked, a wonderful aroma filled my kitchen – the sharp tang of the cheese, the warm spices, and the rich, eggy scent. When I pulled the dish out of the oven, the eggs were golden and puffed up, with a bubbly, molten cheese on top. I couldn't wait to dig in.

I scooped a generous portion onto my plate and took a bite. The eggs were light and airy, with a creamy texture that melted in my mouth. The cheese added a sharp, salty flavor that balanced perfectly with the subtle sweetness of the nutmeg. It was a revelation – a simple dish that was bursting with flavor and comfort.

I immediately called Margaret to thank her for sharing the recipe with me. She laughed and said that she was glad I had enjoyed it. We chatted for hours, reminiscing about our favorite recipes and the times we had shared in the kitchen. It was a special moment, a bond forged through a love of good food and good company.

Since that day, Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme has become a favorite in my household. I have made it for family gatherings, brunches with friends, and lazy Sunday mornings with just my husband and me. Each time I make it, I think of Margaret and the joy that sharing recipes can bring.

I have added my own twist to the dish over the years, experimenting with different cheeses, herbs, and vegetables. Sometimes I sprinkle crispy bacon on top, or sautéed mushrooms and spinach. Other times, I serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a slice of crusty bread. No matter how I prepare it, Baked Scrambled Eggs Supreme always brings a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart.

As I grow older, I treasure the memories of that hot summer day and the discovery of this wonderful recipe. It reminds me of the power of food to bring people together, to create moments of joy and connection. And I am grateful for the friendship and love that have enriched my life, one delicious bite at a time.