Cottage Cheese Egg Bake: A High-Protein Breakfast to Fuel Your Day
If you’re on the lookout for a quick, nutritious, and delicious breakfast or brunch option, then this Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is for you! It’s packed with protein, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to enjoy a filling meal on your own, this recipe is versatile, customizable, and sure to be a hit in your kitchen. Plus, it’s the perfect way to get your dairy fix with a healthy twist.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 6 large |
| Cottage Cheese (low-fat or full-fat) | 1 ½ cups |
| Milk (any kind) | 1 cup |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | ½ cup |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 small |
| Bell Pepper (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Spinach (fresh or frozen) | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black Pepper | ½ tsp |
| Garlic Powder | ½ tsp |
| Olive Oil (for sautéing) | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh Herbs (optional, for garnish) | For garnish |
Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
Recipe Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or an oven-safe casserole dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Sauté Vegetables
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. If you’re using frozen spinach, thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the pan. If using fresh spinach, add it to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add the sautéed vegetables into the mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Bake the Dish
Pour the egg and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra flavor and a cheesy crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is slightly golden. You can check doneness by inserting a knife in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
5. Cool & Serve
Let the Cottage Cheese Egg Bake cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Recipe Notes
- Cheese Options: You can swap cheddar cheese for any cheese you prefer, such as feta, mozzarella, or goat cheese.
- Veggie Add-ins: Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms. The more colorful, the better!
- Make it Spicy: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Low-Carb Version: If you’re following a low-carb diet, skip the cheese or use a lower-fat variety, and substitute the milk with almond milk for a lighter version.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container for best results.
- Freezing: You can freeze leftover portions for up to 2 months. Allow the egg bake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, bake it at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
[cal_calc]
Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect
- Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices to suit your taste—dried oregano, basil, or thyme would all make excellent additions.
- For a Fluffier Texture: Whisk the eggs well and add a pinch of baking powder to the mixture for a lighter, fluffier texture.
- Texture Variation: You can use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese for a creamier texture if desired.
How to Serve
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake can be served as the star of your breakfast or brunch table. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit, avocado toast, or crispy bacon for a complete meal. It’s also perfect for meal prepping—make it ahead of time for an easy grab-and-go breakfast!
Kitchen Tools Needed
- 9×9-inch baking dish or casserole dish
- Medium skillet for sautéing vegetables
- Whisk for egg mixture
- Knife and cutting board for chopping veggies
Health Benefits
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is packed with protein from the eggs and cottage cheese, making it a great choice for muscle repair and growth. Cottage cheese is also rich in calcium, which supports bone health. The veggies, including bell peppers and spinach, add a burst of vitamins and minerals, making this dish a balanced, nutritious meal.
FAQs
1. Can I make this Cottage Cheese Egg Bake dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free option like tofu or a dairy-free cream cheese, and use almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk.
2. Can I add meat to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked bacon, sausage, or ground turkey for extra protein. Just make sure to sauté the meat before adding it to the egg mixture.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this egg bake is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it in the morning when you’re ready to eat.
4. What can I serve with this Cottage Cheese Egg Bake?
This dish is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, toast, or roasted potatoes. You could even serve it with some fruit for a balanced breakfast or brunch.
5. How do I know when it’s done baking?
The egg bake is done when the top is lightly golden, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If the knife has any wet egg on it, continue baking for a few more minutes.
Final Thoughts
The Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a simple, delicious, and customizable recipe that’s perfect for any meal. It’s not only high in protein but also easy to prepare and store, making it ideal for busy mornings or meal prepping. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation.
