Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a delightful high-protein dish that not only tastes great but is also perfect for any brunch occasion. Packed with Mediterranean flavors from spinach, sundried tomatoes, and Feta cheese, it offers a satisfying meal option suitable for potlucks, family gatherings, or even a wholesome breakfast at home. With 30 grams of protein per serving, this recipe stands out for its nutritious ingredients and ease of preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Each serving boasts 30 grams of protein, making it a filling choice for breakfast or brunch.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of spinach, sundried tomatoes, and Feta adds a Mediterranean flair that pleases the palate.
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip this up for unexpected guests or busy mornings.
- Great for Leftovers: This egg bake stores well in the fridge and makes a convenient meal for the next day.
- Gluten-Free Option: Naturally gluten-free, it’s suitable for most dietary preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious Cottage Cheese Egg Bake recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make preparation smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 12-inch pie plate skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Chopping board
Importance of Each Tool
- 12-inch pie plate skillet: Ideal for even baking and easy serving of your egg bake.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Whisk: Perfect for ensuring a fluffy texture by mixing eggs and cottage cheese effectively.
Ingredients
Dairy Ingredients
- 1 cup Cottage Cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 9 large Eggs
- 1/3 cup Feta Cheese (note 1)
Vegetables
- 1 cup Baby Spinach
- 1/2 cup Sundried Tomatoes (stored dry, not in oil, cut into stripes (note 2))
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). While it’s heating up, 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. Setting them aside will help incorporate them smoothly into your egg mixture.
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, and oregano until well combined.
2. Stir in sundried tomato strips and chopped spinach until evenly mixed.
Step 4: Bake the Mixture
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pie plate. Place it on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-25 minutes or until the eggs are fully set and the center is no longer jiggly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. After cooling:
1. Slice into quarters.
2. Serve immediately with fresh lettuce or roasted vegetables on the side.
Enjoy your flavorful Cottage Cheese Egg Bake!
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
Serving Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a delightful experience. Whether it’s for brunch with friends or a family breakfast, there are many ways to enjoy this nutritious dish.
With Fresh Greens
- Mixed Salad: Pair the bake with a fresh mixed salad of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes for a refreshing crunch.
- Arugula: Serve it on a bed of peppery arugula drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for added flavor.
Topped with Salsa
- Pico de Gallo: A zesty pico de gallo adds freshness and spice to each bite of the egg bake.
- Avocado Salsa: Combine diced avocados, onions, and lime juice for a creamy topping that complements the dish.
Accompanied by Toast
- Whole Grain Toast: Serve slices of whole grain toast on the side, perfect for scooping up the egg bake.
- Garlic Bread: For an extra kick, garlic bread can add a savory touch that pairs well with the flavors.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Seasonal Veggies: Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots can enhance your meal while adding nutritional value.
- Herb-Infused Veggies: Toss vegetables with herbs before roasting for aromatic additions to your plate.
How to Perfect Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
To achieve the best Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, consider these tips for perfecting your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and quality cheeses to elevate the flavor profile.
- Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak seasonings based on personal taste; adding herbs can enhance aroma.
- Preheat Properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve even cooking.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Keep an eye on baking time; overcooking can lead to dry eggs while undercooking leaves them runny.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the bake to cool slightly before slicing helps maintain its shape and makes serving easier.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins like bell peppers or turkey sausage for variety.
Best Side Dishes for Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
Pairing side dishes with your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the rich flavors of the egg bake.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a sweet contrast that complements the savory dish.
- Breakfast Potatoes: Crispy roasted or sautéed potatoes provide hearty texture alongside the fluffy egg bake.
- Smoothie Bowl: A nutrient-packed smoothie bowl topped with seeds and nuts offers a refreshing drinkable side.
- Oven-Baked Bacon: For meat lovers, crispy bacon adds a crunchy element that pairs beautifully with eggs.
- Herbed Quinoa: Lightly seasoned quinoa provides a healthy grain option that is both filling and nutritious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, it’s easy to overlook a few key points. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using too many eggs – Stick to the recipe’s egg count for the right texture. Too many can make it dense and rubbery.
- Not chopping ingredients properly – Ensure all ingredients, like spinach and sundried tomatoes, are chopped well. This helps them mix evenly throughout the bake.
- Skipping the cooling time – Allowing the bake to cool for 10 minutes is essential. It helps it set better and makes slicing easier.
- Overbaking – Keep an eye on your bake towards the end of cooking. Overbaking can lead to dry eggs; check for a firm center without jiggling.
- Neglecting seasoning – Don’t skip on salt or herbs! Well-seasoned dishes bring out flavors, so use the recommended spices.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes per slice, checking regularly.
- Stovetop – Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Cottage Cheese Egg Bake that might help you further.
What is a Cottage Cheese Egg Bake?
A Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a savory dish made primarily with eggs and cottage cheese, offering a high-protein meal option perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Can I customize my Cottage Cheese Egg Bake?
Yes! You can add various vegetables, herbs, or even different types of cheese based on your preferences and what’s available.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat-based ingredients. Always check labels on packaged items if you’re sensitive.
What can I serve with my Cottage Cheese Egg Bake?
Pair it with fresh salad greens or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. It’s also delicious when served alongside whole-grain toast.
Final Thoughts
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is not only packed with protein but also rich in Mediterranean flavors that everyone will love. It’s perfect for brunches or potlucks and can easily be customized to suit your taste. Try adding different veggies or cheeses to make it your own!
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a delectable, high-protein dish that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the richness of eggs and Mediterranean flavors. Featuring nutrient-packed ingredients like fresh spinach, sundried tomatoes, and tangy Feta cheese, this versatile bake is perfect for brunches, family gatherings, or a wholesome breakfast at home. With each serving delivering an impressive 30 grams of protein, it’s not only satisfying but also simple to prepare in just 10 minutes. This dish is ideal for meal prep, making leftovers a convenient option for busy days. Enjoy this nutritious treat warm or cold, and watch it become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Cottage Cheese
- 9 large Eggs
- 1/3 cup Feta Cheese
- 1 cup Baby Spinach
- 1/2 cup Sundried Tomatoes
- Salt
- Ground Pepper
- Dried Oregano
- Garlic Powder
- 1/3 cup Grated Cheddar Cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 12-inch pie plate skillet with olive oil.
- Roughly chop baby spinach and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, feta cheese, pepper, salt, garlic powder, grated cheddar, and oregano until well combined.
- Stir in chopped spinach and sundried tomatoes until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared skillet and bake for 15-25 minutes or until fully set.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing into quarters and serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 275mg
