If you’ve been following my healthy food blog, you may have noticed a few cottage cheese-based recipes. That’s because this ingredient is incredibly versatile. Take this cottage cheese egg bake, for instance; it’s a complete wholesome meal on its own. Just load it up with veggies of your choice, and you’re set. It also makes a perfect, easy meal-prep breakfast for busy mornings.
I sometimes call this cottage cheese egg bake my “protein frittata,” and my whole family loves it. I don’t have to worry about the kids getting enough protein and veggies to kick off their day. It’s a win-win situation for everyone!
Today, I have two delicious versions for you: one with veggies and goat’s or regular Greek feta for a salty and flavorful kick, and another with spicy chorizo sausage. Once you try these recipes, you’ll never want to eat boring old sugar-loaded cereal for breakfast again.
As a nutritionist, I’m always on the lookout for meals that pack a protein punch without sacrificing flavor. This egg bake with cottage cheese does just that, making it perfect for health-conscious eaters and those following a keto-friendly diet.
Why Cottage Cheese?
Cottage cheese is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s low in calories but high in protein, making it ideal for anyone looking to build muscle or maintain a healthy weight. When combined with eggs, you’ve got a breakfast that’ll keep you full and energized all morning.
Nutritional Benefits of Cottage Cheese
Let’s break down why cottage cheese is such a fantastic ingredient:
- High-quality protein: Cottage cheese contains casein protein, which is slow-digesting and helps keep you feeling full.
- Low in calories: A half-cup serving typically contains only 80-100 calories.
- Rich in calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Good source of B vitamins: Particularly B12, which is crucial for energy production.
Two Tasty Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipes
I’ve whipped up two delicious versions of this high-protein meal prep staple. Whether you’re a veggie lover or a meat enthusiast, there’s a baked cottage cheese eggs recipe for you.
1.Vegetarian Delight: Spinach, Pumpkin, and Feta Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
This vegetarian cottage cheese egg bake is a symphony of flavors. The sweetness of roasted pumpkin perfectly balances the salty tang of feta cheese. Spinach adds a nutritious boost and beautiful color.
Servings – 4.
Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup roasted pumpkin cubes
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat feta or any featta will work too
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs until well combined.
- Add cottage cheese to the eggs and mix gently.
- Fold in roasted pumpkin, spinach, feta, thyme, and garlic powder.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until set and golden on top.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Roast Pumpkin
While you can use raw pumpkin in this recipe, pre-roasting pumpkin brings out its natural sweetness and creates a tender texture. Here’s the process:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and dry a small pumpkin (sugar pumpkin or butternut squash work well).
- Cut the pumpkin in half and scoop out the seeds and peel the skin off.
- Cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Toss cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can also use air fryer for baking the pumpkin.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
- Let cool before using in the recipe.
2. Roasted Peppers and Spicy Chorizo Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
For those who crave a bit of heat, this cottage cheese egg bake with roasted peppers and chorizo is a flavor explosion. The spicy sausage adds a kick that complements the creamy eggs perfectly.
Servings – 4.
Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups cottage cheese (full fat or low fat, up to you)
- 1 cup roasted bell peppers, sliced (homemade or jarred)
- 1 spicy chorizo
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
- In a non-stick skillet, fry up diced chorizo sausage and set aside
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs until well combined.
- Mix in cottage cheese gently.
- Stir in roasted peppers (see instructions below how to roast them), cooked chorizo, onion, smoked paprika, and cayenne if using.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until set and lightly browned on top.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Roast Bell Peppers
While you can use jarred roasted peppers, homemade ones offer superior flavor and texture. Here’s how to roast them:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Wash and dry the bell peppers.
- Place whole peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning every 5-10 minutes, until the skin is charred and blistered all over.
- Remove from the oven and place in a heat-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let steam for 10-15 minutes.
- Once cool enough to handle, peel off the skin, remove seeds, and slice as needed.
Tips for the Perfect Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
- Don’t overmix: Gently fold ingredients to keep the texture light and fluffy.
- Use full-fat cottage cheese: This provides extra creaminess and better texture.
- Drain excess liquid from vegetables: This prevents a watery egg bake.
- Experiment with herbs and spices: Create your own flavor combinations!
- For a softer texture: Remove the egg bake from the oven when it’s just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Customization Options
One of the best things about this cottage cheese egg bake is its versatility! Here are some ways to make it your own:
- Swap vegetables: Try broccoli, mushrooms, or zucchini instead of spinach or peppers.
- Change the cheese: Experiment with cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère instead of feta.
- Add herbs: Fresh basil or dill can add an exciting burst of flavor.
- Spice it up: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat to the vegetarian option if you like!
Make-Ahead Meal Prep Magic
These egg bakes are perfect for high-protein meal prep! Make a batch on Sunday so you’ll have breakfast sorted for the week ahead—simply reheat a slice each morning for a quick start to your day.
And because this cottage cheese egg bake has some many nutrients in there who says you can’t have it for a light, protein-loaded, low-carb lunch?
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil; they can be frozen for up to 3 months!
- Reheat: Microwave slices for about 60-90 seconds or warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
This dish isn’t just delicious – it’s also incredibly good for you! Here’s why:
- High in protein: Keeps you full longer while supporting muscle health!
- Low carb: Great option if you’re watching your carbohydrate intake!
- Nutrient-dense: Packed with vitamins from eggs and veggies!
- Versatile: Easy to adapt based on dietary needs!
- Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free—suitable even if you have celiac disease!
Serving Suggestions
While this cottage cheese egg bake is delightful on its own, here are some ideas to round out your breakfast or brunch:
- Fresh fruit salad adds sweetness!
- Whole grain toast provides extra fiber and makes it more filling!
- Avocado slices offer healthy fats!
- Greek yogurt gives additional protein!
- A side of mixed greens boosts your vegetable intake!
Whether you’re following a low-carb or keto-friendly diet or just looking for satisfying breakfast options that won’t weigh you down—these cottage cheese egg bakes have got you covered! They’re proof that healthy eating can be both delicious AND convenient.
So next time you’re staring at that tub of cottage cheese in your fridge, remember, greatness awaits! Whip up one of these egg bakes today & start your day off right with protein-packed goodness that’ll delight both your taste buds AND your body!
Happy baking & enjoy your cottage cheese egg bake adventure!
