Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe

Hello, breakfast lovers! If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make, protein-packed, and bursting with cheesy goodness, this Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is for you. Perfect for brunch, meal prep, or a cozy family breakfast, this bake combines simple ingredients with bold flavors to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Introduction

The Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a versatile dish that’s as nutritious as it is tasty. This recipe brings together fluffy eggs, creamy cottage cheese, and the sharp flavors of cheddar and Parmesan to create a rich and hearty bake. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a favorite for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches. Add some chopped green onions and fresh parsley, and you’ve got a colorful, crowd-pleasing dish ready in no time.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, gather the following ingredients:

  • Eggs: 6 large
  • Cottage cheese: 2 cups (about 450 grams)
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded (about 100 grams)
  • Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup, grated (about 25 grams)
  • Flour: 1/4 cup (about 30 grams)
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted (about 30 mL)
  • Baking powder: 1 teaspoon (5 mL)
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL)
  • Chopped green onions: 1/4 cup (about 25 grams)
  • Fresh parsley: chopped, for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes: for garnish (optional)

These simple ingredients come together to form a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

Follow these steps to prepare your own Cottage Cheese Egg Bake:

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.

Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth and frothy. Add the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, flour, melted butter, baking powder, and salt. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.

Add Flavors: Fold in the chopped green onions, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and, if you like a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

  • Customize the Flavors: Add diced bell peppers, cooked bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
  • Prevent Sinking: To avoid heavy ingredients sinking to the bottom, coat them lightly in flour before folding them into the egg mixture.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Cooking Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake turns out perfectly every time:

  • Whisk Thoroughly: Ensure the eggs are whisked thoroughly to create a fluffy, even texture.
  • Grease the Pan: Use a nonstick spray or a thin layer of butter to grease the baking dish for easy removal.
  • Avoid Overbaking: Check for doneness at the 35-minute mark to prevent the bake from becoming dry. It should be golden brown on top and just set in the center.

Serving Suggestions

The Cottage Cheese Egg Bake pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to make a complete meal. Serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or buttery toast for breakfast or brunch. For a savory twist, consider adding avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream on top. This dish also works as a light lunch when paired with a green salad or roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Information

This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:

  • Calories: 250
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Protein: 17g
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Potassium: 200mg
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Vitamin A: 15%
  • Vitamin C: 4%
  • Calcium: 20%
  • Iron: 6%

Rich in protein and calcium, this dish is a great way to fuel your morning or keep you energized throughout the day.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This bake reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Reheat: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or cover the entire dish with foil and warm it in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.

Freezing Option: If you’d like to freeze the bake, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese? Yes, low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese works well, but it may slightly alter the texture and richness of the bake.

What other cheeses can I use? Feel free to substitute or add other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the mixture the night before, pour it into the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh the next morning for a quick and easy breakfast.

Related Recipes

If you love this Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, you might also enjoy:

Conclusion

This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re hosting brunch or prepping meals for the week, this bake is sure to please. Its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and customizable options make it a go-to recipe for busy mornings or cozy weekends. Try it today, and let us know how it turns out. Enjoy every bite of this cheesy, fluffy delight!

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