Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a high-protein breakfast option, this recipe has you covered. Packed with Mediterranean flavors and 30 grams of protein per serving, it’s not only filling but also incredibly easy to prepare. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful egg bake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Each serving packs around 30 grams of protein, making it ideal for fueling your day.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a light dinner option. Serve it warm or cold!
- Mediterranean Flavors: Enjoy the delightful combination of spinach, sundried tomatoes, and Feta cheese.
- Healthy Ingredients: This recipe incorporates nutritious components like cottage cheese and fresh vegetables.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, gather the necessary tools to ensure an easy and enjoyable cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick pie plate or skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Chopping board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick pie plate or skillet: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to slice the baked dish.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Whisk: Ensures that eggs and cottage cheese blend smoothly for a fluffy texture.
Ingredients
Dairy Ingredients
- 1 cup Cottage Cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 9 large Eggs
- 1/3 cup Feta Cheese
Vegetables
- 1 cup Baby Spinach
- 1/2 cup Sundried Tomatoes (stored dry, not in oil, cut into stripes)
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/8 teaspoon Ground Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Toppings
- 1/3 cup Grated Cheddar Cheese (or grated mozzarella)
How to Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 12-inch pie plate skillet with olive oil and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach
Roughly chop the baby spinach leaves. Set them aside for later use.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, feta cheese, pepper, salt, garlic powder, grated cheddar cheese, and oregano until well combined.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Tomatoes
Stir in the sundried tomato strips and chopped spinach into the egg mixture until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Pour Mixture into Pie Plate
Pour the prepared egg mixture into the greased pie plate.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pie plate on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-25 minutes or until the eggs are fully set and no longer jiggly in the center.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove from the oven. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 8: Serve
Slice into quarters and serve immediately with lettuce or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious Cottage Cheese Egg Bake!
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a meal at home, here are some serving suggestions.
Serve with Fresh Greens
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the bake.
- Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar cuts through the creaminess of the dish.
Add a Flavorful Sauce
- Salsa: A fresh tomato salsa adds a zesty kick that complements the Mediterranean flavors of the bake.
- Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the flavors.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Whole-Grain Bread: Serve slices of whole-grain bread for a hearty addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover egg mixture.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and flavor contrast to the softness of the egg bake.
Include Fresh Fruits
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado on the side introduces healthy fats and enhances the overall texture.
- Seasonal Berries: A handful of mixed berries provides a refreshing sweetness that balances savory flavors.
How to Perfect Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
To achieve an exceptional Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cheese enhance the overall taste and texture of your bake.
- Whisk Thoroughly: Ensure you whisk eggs and cottage cheese thoroughly for a smooth mixture without lumps.
- Check Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time. The bake is ready when it’s set in the center and no longer jiggly.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack can add unique flavors to your egg bake.
- Let it Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the bake to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing helps maintain its shape.
Best Side Dishes for Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
A well-rounded meal can be achieved by pairing your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent choices:
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until golden provide great texture and flavor contrast.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad offers a refreshing sweetness that balances out savory dishes beautifully.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits makes for a delightful side that adds creaminess and crunch.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns are classic breakfast fare that pairs perfectly with any egg dish.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs adds protein and fiber while enhancing nutritional value.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide comfort food vibes alongside your protein-packed egg bake.
- Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a nutritious option that complements brunch meals.
- Crispy Bacon or Sausage Links: For meat lovers, crispy bacon or sausage links add heartiness to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Cottage Cheese Egg Bake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that may affect your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
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Using the wrong type of cottage cheese: Opting for low-fat may not give you the same creamy texture. Choose full-fat cottage cheese for a richer bake.
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Overbaking: Baking too long can lead to rubbery eggs. Keep an eye on your egg bake and remove it once the center is set.
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Neglecting seasoning: Skipping salt and spices can result in bland flavors. Always season your mixture well before baking.
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Not chopping spinach properly: Large pieces of spinach can create an uneven texture. Chop it into smaller pieces to mix more evenly throughout.
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Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the bake immediately can cause it to crumble. Let it cool for 10 minutes for clean slices.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
- Cut into portions and wrap tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed, adding a splash of water if needed to create steam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about preparing and enjoying this delicious Cottage Cheese Egg Bake:
Can I use different vegetables in my Cottage Cheese Egg Bake?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini according to your preference.
How do I make my Cottage Cheese Egg Bake spicier?
To add a kick, include chopped jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes into your egg mixture before baking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Cottage Cheese Egg Bake stores well and makes a great option for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
Can I substitute other cheeses?
Yes! You can try other cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella, depending on your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is not only high in protein but also versatile and easy to customize. With Mediterranean flavors and a satisfying texture, it’s perfect for brunches or potlucks. Experiment with different veggies or cheeses to make it your own!
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, a nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal occasion. This versatile recipe is packed with 30 grams of protein per serving, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a high-protein breakfast or brunch option. With the rich taste of feta cheese, the freshness of spinach, and the tanginess of sundried tomatoes, each bite feels like a Mediterranean escape. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, this egg bake will impress family and friends alike while being effortlessly healthy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 9 large eggs
- 1/3 cup feta cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes (dry, cut into strips)
- Seasonings: salt, pepper, dried oregano, garlic powder
- Toppings: 1/3 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a pie plate.
- Chop spinach and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, feta cheese, seasonings, and cheddar until smooth.
- Stir in chopped spinach and sundried tomatoes.
- Pour mixture into the prepared pie plate and bake for 15-25 minutes until set in the center.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
