Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a delightful dish that brings together fluffy eggs, creamy cottage cheese, crispy bacon, and vibrant vegetables. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, potlucks, or a quick weekday lunch. Not only is it protein-packed and delicious, but it’s also a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to suit gluten-free diets. Enjoy this comforting bake hot from the oven or as a make-ahead option!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Protein-Packed: This dish is loaded with protein from the eggs and cottage cheese, making it a nutritious start to your day.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or leftover ingredients for an easy meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep this Cottage Cheese Egg Bake the night before and bake when ready to serve.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a group—each serving packs flavor and satisfaction.
• Gluten-Free Option Available: Simply swap in gluten-free flour for an inclusive dish everyone can enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation and baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking pan: Provides ample space for even cooking of the egg mixture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly for optimal flavor.
• Whisk: Ensures eggs are beaten well, creating a fluffy texture in your bake.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Cottage Cheese Egg Bake:

Egg Mixture:

• 12 large eggs
• 16 ounces shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
• 32 ounces small curd cottage cheese (4% milkfat recommended)
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free substitute)
• 1 teaspoon Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (plus extra for sprinkling)

Vegetables & Add-ins:

• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained very well
• 1 cup small-diced red bell pepper, divided
• ½ cup minced yellow onion
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Bacon:

• 1 pound bacon, cooked and chopped (set aside ¼ cup for topping)

Optional Garnish:

• Chopped green onion

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How to Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Cook the Bacon

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray your 9×13-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Cook the bacon until chewy-crisp using your preferred method. Allow it to cool on paper towels before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Combine Egg Mixture

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until well combined.
2. Reserve ¼ cup of chopped bacon and ½ cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese for topping later.
3. Add the remaining bacon, Colby Jack cheese, spinach, cottage cheese, melted butter, half of the red bell pepper, and all of the onion into the egg mixture. Stir until everything is mixed thoroughly.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

1. Sprinkle flour, Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, black pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese over the egg mixture.
2. Stir until fully combined to create a smooth batter.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the prepared egg mixture into your greased baking pan.
2. Evenly sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese, bacon bits, and diced red bell pepper on top.
3. Add reserved Colby Jack cheese along with freshly ground black pepper over everything.
4. Cover with foil or a lid; bake for 40 minutes.
5. Remove cover; bake uncovered for an additional 20–30 minutes or until set in the center.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Once baked, remove from oven; let it sit for 15–20 minutes to firm up before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped green onion if desired; serve warm for best taste!

With these steps followed closely, you’ll have a delicious Cottage Cheese Egg Bake that will impress family and friends alike!

How to Serve Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. It’s perfect for any meal and can easily be adapted to fit different tastes and occasions.

For Brunch Gatherings

• Serve with Fresh Fruit: Pair the egg bake with slices of seasonal fruit for a refreshing contrast.
• Offer Assorted Breads: Provide a selection of breads, such as croissants or whole-grain rolls, for guests to enjoy alongside the bake.

As a Quick Lunch

• Accompany with a Side Salad: A light green salad drizzled with vinaigrette enhances the meal, adding crunch and freshness.
• Pair with Soup: A cup of tomato or vegetable soup complements the flavors and adds warmth.

For Dinner Options

• Top with Avocado Slices: Adding creamy avocado on top provides healthy fats and an extra layer of flavor.
• Include Hot Sauce: Offer hot sauce or salsa on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

How to Perfect Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

To ensure your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality eggs and fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
• Bold Proper Drainage: Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to prevent excess moisture in your bake.
• Bold Even Mixing: Stir all ingredients well to ensure even distribution of flavors and ingredients throughout.
• Bold Temperature Check: Use a food thermometer; the center should reach 160°F for safe consumption.
• Bold Allow Resting Time: Let the bake rest before serving, as this helps it set and improves texture.

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Best Side Dishes for Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

Cottage Cheese Egg Bake pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to enhance your meal.

1. Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette adds freshness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring earthy flavors, making them an excellent complement.
3. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add a satisfying crunch that balances the soft texture of the egg bake.
4. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad provides bright flavors and is a refreshing addition to any plate.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a sweet counterpoint to the savory egg bake.
6. Sautéed Kale or Spinach: Lightly sautéed greens can enhance the dish’s nutritional content while keeping it deliciously simple.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing a Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not draining the spinach properly: Failing to squeeze out excess water from frozen spinach can lead to a watery bake. Always drain and press it with paper towels.
• Overmixing the egg mixture: Mixing too vigorously can create a dense texture. Mix just until combined for a fluffy outcome.
• Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the bake too early will result in a soft and runny texture. Allow it to rest for 15–20 minutes after baking.
• Using low-fat cottage cheese: While tempting for health reasons, low-fat versions may not yield the same creaminess. Opt for full-fat cottage cheese for best results.
• Ignoring the seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Don’t skip salt and pepper; adjust them according to taste.
• Not adjusting baking time: Oven temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on the bake towards the end of cooking time. Test for doneness before removing it.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the Cottage Cheese Egg Bake to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Cottage Cheese Egg Bake?

A Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a savory dish made primarily with eggs, cottage cheese, vegetables, and various add-ins like bacon or cheese. It’s high in protein and perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend like Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten Free Baking Flour.

How long does it take to cook?

The total cooking time is about 1 hour and 10 minutes, followed by an additional resting time of 15–20 minutes.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! You can swap out vegetables, use different cheeses, or even omit bacon for a vegetarian version of this Cottage Cheese Egg Bake.

Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving, making it perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.

Final Thoughts

This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or make it gluten-free with ease. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, potlucks, or enjoying it as a quick lunch option, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table!