Start your day right with this delightful cottage cheese egg bake! This dish combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with fluffy eggs and colorful veggies, creating a wholesome breakfast or brunch option. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also offers a burst of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for meal prepping or serving guests, this cottage cheese egg bake is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Fresh herbs for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the bake) contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 15g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and cottage cheese until smooth.
3. Add diced bell peppers, chopped onion, and spinach to the mixture.
4. Stir in the shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
6. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Spread the mixture evenly using a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until set and golden on top.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute cottage cheese with ricotta for a creamier texture. You can also use any vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to customize the flavors. For a vegan version, use silken tofu and replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture.
Serving and Pairings
This cottage cheese egg bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some sliced avocado. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or whole grain toast for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for about 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just ensure it’s well-sealed.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking to prevent a dry texture.
– Ensure the eggs are well-whisked for a fluffy bake.
– Do not skip greasing the baking dish; it prevents sticking.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Let the bake cool slightly before slicing for cleaner pieces.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor.
– Add spices like paprika or chili flakes for a kick.
– For a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese before mixing.
– Incorporate cooked bacon or sausage for added protein.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and bake it in the morning. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
Is cottage cheese egg bake suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include your favorite vegetables. Just ensure they are chopped small enough to cook evenly.
How do I know when the bake is done?
The bake is done when it is set in the middle and has a light golden color on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Can I freeze the cottage cheese egg bake?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just ensure it’s cooled completely and stored in an airtight container for up to a month.
Conclusion
This cottage cheese egg bake is a versatile and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal. Easy to prepare, it offers a great way to enjoy protein and vegetables in a delicious form. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the wholesome goodness packed in every bite!
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup bell peppers diced
- 1/4 cup red onion chopped
- 1 cup spinach chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and cottage cheese until smooth.
- Add diced bell peppers, chopped onion, and spinach to the mixture.
- Stir in the shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the mixture evenly using a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until set and golden on top.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Nutrition
