Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite breakfast dish: the cottage cheese egg bake! Seriously, this dish is a game-changer. It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for lazy Sunday brunches or even quick weekday breakfasts. You can whip it up in no time, and it’s packed with protein, making it a satisfying way to start the day. I love how you can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand—spinach, bell peppers, onions, you name it! Plus, the creamy cottage cheese adds such a delightful texture. Trust me, every bite is a little slice of heaven. I can’t get enough of it, and I’m sure you’ll fall in love with it too!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup cottage cheese – This creamy base adds a wonderful richness and protein boost.
- 6 large eggs – The heart of this dish, providing structure and that classic egg flavor.
- 1 cup spinach, chopped – Fresh and vibrant, this adds color and a nutritious punch.
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced – Sweet and crunchy, it brings a lovely texture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup onion, diced – A must for that savory depth; you can use any onion you like!
- 1 cup shredded cheese – I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that melty goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing all the flavors together; don’t skip this!
How to Prepare the Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
Getting this cottage cheese egg bake ready is such a breeze! I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. First things first, you’ll need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key to ensuring your bake comes out perfectly fluffy! While that’s heating up, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the eggs and cottage cheese until they’re nice and smooth. It’s like a creamy dream come true!
Next up, toss in your chopped spinach, diced bell pepper, and onion. Mix it all together so every bite is filled with delicious flavors! Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Once everything is combined, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. I love using a 9×9-inch dish for this, but feel free to use what you have on hand. Finally, sprinkle that glorious shredded cheese on top for the ultimate melt factor.
Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until it’s set and golden on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone rushing to the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs and 1 cup of cottage cheese until smooth.
- Add 1 cup of chopped spinach, 1/2 cup of diced bell pepper, and 1/2 cup of diced onion, then mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with 1 cup of shredded cheese of your choice.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until set and the top is golden.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans!
- Nutritious and packed with protein thanks to the cottage cheese and eggs.
- Versatile—swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses for a personalized touch.
- Deliciously creamy and satisfying, making it a hit with everyone at the table.
- Great for meal prep; you can enjoy it all week long!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cottage cheese egg bake turns out absolutely fabulous! First off, don’t be afraid to get creative with your veggies. If spinach isn’t your thing, try kale or even zucchini! Just make sure to chop them finely so they cook evenly. Also, if you want an extra kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or some herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the flavor beautifully.
Now, about that baking time—keep an eye on it! Ovens can vary, so check your bake a few minutes early. You want it to be set in the middle and just starting to turn golden on top. If you love a crispy cheese layer, you can broil it for a minute or two after baking, but watch it closely so it doesn’t burn. Lastly, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing; this helps it hold its shape. Trust me, these little tips will make a big difference!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this cottage cheese egg bake! Each serving (about one slice) is estimated to have around 220 calories, making it a satisfying yet light option. You’ll find about 10 grams of fat, with 4 grams being saturated fat, and a hearty 20 grams of protein to keep you fueled for the day. The dish also contains around 8 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fiber. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so feel free to adjust as needed. It’s a nutritious way to kick-start your morning!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of cheese in the cottage cheese egg bake?
Absolutely! While I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella, you can experiment with any cheese you prefer. Feta, goat cheese, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a unique twist!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This egg bake is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast!
Is it possible to freeze the cottage cheese egg bake?
Definitely! Once it’s cooled, you can slice it into portions and freeze them in airtight containers. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with the cottage cheese egg bake?
This bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or some sliced avocado on the side. You could also serve it with toast for a heartier breakfast!
Can I customize the vegetables used?
Of course! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even roasted red peppers. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of your cottage cheese egg bake is super easy! Just let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking! Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
For more delicious recipes, check out this guide on cottage cheese or this creamy pasta recipe!
Print
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake: 5 Reasons You’ll Adore It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A savory dish made with cottage cheese and eggs, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and cottage cheese.
- Add spinach, bell pepper, onion, and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set.
Notes
- Can substitute vegetables based on preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: cottage cheese, egg bake, breakfast
