Name: Gluten-Free Potato Breakfast Casserole with Cottage Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5–2 lbs (about 5 cups) Yukon gold or red potatoes, diced; 1 small onion (¾ cup diced yellow onion); 1 small/medium bell pepper (¾ cup diced); 3–4 large eggs (3 for slightly less custard filling); ¾ cup cottage cheese; ⅔ cup non-dairy milk or milk of choice; 1 ¾ to 2 cups shredded cheddar or colby jack cheese, divided (dairy-free if needed); 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil or butter; ¾ cup canned diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained; 1 to 1 ¼ teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ¾ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon kosher salt or to taste; Black pepper to taste; Optional: 1 cup cooked shredded chicken; Garnish: chopped fresh cilantro or green onions

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 12 reviews

If you are looking for a hearty and comforting breakfast that’s naturally wholesome and full of flavor, then this Gluten-Free Potato Breakfast Casserole with Cottage Cheese Recipe is going to be your next kitchen favorite. It beautifully balances tender potatoes with creamy cottage cheese and melted cheese goodness, all enhanced by aromatic spices and a bit of veggie crunch. Ready in under an hour, this dish fits perfectly into busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches, providing a satisfying and protein-packed start to your day without any gluten worries.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There are four white eggs placed together on the left side. Near them is a silver can lying on its side. Above the eggs is a large clear glass bowl filled with small yellow potato pieces. To the right of the potatoes is a glass measuring cup with a white liquid. Below the measuring cup are four smaller white bowls placed in a rough square. The top bowl holds shredded yellow cheese, the right bowl contains chopped white onions, the bottom bowl has white cottage cheese with a lumpy texture, and the left bowl contains diced green bell peppers. In the center of these four small bowls is a miniature bowl with a mix of red and green spices. All elements sit clearly on the white marbled surface, and the photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Gluten-Free Potato Breakfast Casserole with Cottage Cheese Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component brings something special—whether it’s the golden potatoes for a soft base, spices for a flavor punch, or cottage cheese to add creamy protein.

Yukon gold or red potatoes (1.5–2 lbs): These potatoes hold their shape well and offer a buttery texture perfect for baking.
Olive oil or butter (1½ tablespoons): Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies to tender perfection.
Yellow onion (¾ cup diced): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the casserole’s flavor.
Bell pepper (¾ cup diced): Adds a splash of color and a fresh, crisp bite.
Large eggs (3–4): Essential for binding all the ingredients and creating a delightfully fluffy custard texture.
Cottage cheese (¾ cup): This is the magic ingredient that ups the protein and creaminess without heaviness.
Non-dairy milk or milk of choice (⅔ cup): Keeps the casserole moist and tender as it bakes.
Canned diced tomatoes with green chiles (¾ cup, drained): Adds a little zing and a subtle kick to excite your taste buds.
Shredded cheddar or colby jack cheese (1¾ to 2 cups): Melts beautifully and elevates the casserole’s savory goodness.
Chili powder (1 to 1¼ teaspoons): Provides mild warmth and depth.
Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Brings an earthy, aromatic touch to the spice mix.
Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle smoky note without overpowering the dish.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory elements with subtle garlic flavor.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts the onion flavor for a rounder taste.
Dried oregano (¾ teaspoon): Adds a hint of herbaceous brightness.
Kosher salt (½ teaspoon or to taste): Balances and enhances all flavors.
Black pepper (to taste): Finishes the seasoning with mild heat.
Optional: Cooked shredded chicken (1 cup): For a protein boost and added heartiness.
Garnish: Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions: For a fresh and vibrant finish.

How to Make Gluten-Free Potato Breakfast Casserole with Cottage Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing your baking dish. Par-cooking your potatoes by steaming or boiling them until just tender gives the casserole a perfect texture, so they don’t turn mushy. While they cool, sauté diced onion and bell pepper in olive oil or butter until soft and fragrant — the aroma will instantly make your kitchen feel welcoming.

Step 2: Mixing the Custard Base

In a blender or a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, milk, and all the wonderful spices including chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. This blend is the heart of the casserole, infusing every bite with layers of warmth and zest. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, which give the custard a subtle kick and vibrant chunks of tomato flavor.

Step 3: Combining the Casserole Components

Gently fold the par-cooked potatoes, sautéed veggies, and the egg- and cottage cheese-based custard together in a large bowl. Add in 1¼ cups of shredded cheese, reserving some for topping, and mix everything evenly. If you want to add cooked shredded chicken, now is the time for extra richness and protein. This mixture will be thick, flavorful, and ready to fill your baking dish for the magic to happen.

Step 4: Baking Your Breakfast Delight

Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared dish and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top for a gooey, golden crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 to 40 minutes until set and golden around the edges. The smell will be irresistible as the spices, cheese, and tender potatoes meld into a delicious, satisfying breakfast casserole.

How to Serve Gluten-Free Potato Breakfast Casserole with Cottage Cheese Recipe

A white rectangular dish filled with a baked casserole that has one thick golden-yellow cheese layer on top, melted and slightly browned around the edges, sprinkled with small pieces of chopped green onions scattered evenly over the surface. The casserole sits on a white marbled textured surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or green onions not only adds a burst of color but also a fresh herbal note that perfectly balances the casserole’s richness. These garnishes bring brightness and a lovely textural contrast that completes the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines wonderfully on its own, but if you want to round out your breakfast, think about serving it with a crisp green salad, fresh fruit, or your favorite salsa on the side. These sides add freshness and variety, making your breakfast table feel extra inviting.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests or family? Serve this casserole in individual ramekins or bake it in a muffin tin for personal-sized portions that are perfect for brunch parties or quick grab-and-go meals during busy mornings. Topped with dollops of sour cream or avocado slices, each serving becomes a mini masterpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps its flavor and texture well, making it an excellent option for make-ahead breakfasts or leftovers for busy mornings.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it out before baking, wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you want a comforting breakfast, just thaw overnight and bake as usual — convenience meets deliciousness.

Reheating

To reheat, warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F until heated through (about 15–20 minutes), or microwave individual portions for a quick fix. Reheating carefully preserves the creamy texture and melty cheese that make this casserole so satisfying.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar and colby jack provide great flavor and melt, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or dairy-free alternatives to suit your preference or dietary needs.

Is cottage cheese essential in this casserole?

Cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein while keeping the casserole light. You can substitute ricotta or even Greek yogurt if you prefer, but the creamy texture is key to the custard base.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With some modifications, yes. Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese alternatives, and replace eggs with tofu or a flaxseed egg substitute. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is mild to moderate thanks to the chili powder and green chiles in the tomatoes. You can adjust the spice by adding more or less chili powder or using mild tomatoes if you prefer less heat.

Can I prepare this the night before?

Definitely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it fresh for the best texture and flavor — great for a stress-free breakfast ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

This Gluten-Free Potato Breakfast Casserole with Cottage Cheese Recipe has everything you could want in a morning meal: easy preparation, wholesome ingredients, and incredible flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this dish offers a warm hug of comfort and nourishment. I can’t wait for you to try it and find yourself reaching for seconds—enjoy every cheesy, spicy, and tender bite!