Wake up to a game-changing protein-packed breakfast that will transform your morning routine. The cottage cheese egg bake is not just another recipe – it’s a culinary revelation that brings excitement to your breakfast table.
Inspired by the Land of 10,000 Recipes food blog, this easy breakfast recipe has captured the hearts of home cooks across the country. Featured on popular TV shows like Fox9 Good Day and Twin Cities Live, this dish proves that nutritious meals can be both delicious and simple to prepare.
Imagine a breakfast that delivers over 20 grams of protein in a single slice, packed with vegetables and creamy cottage cheese. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting a weekend brunch, this cottage cheese egg bake is your ultimate solution.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- High-protein breakfast with 20+ grams of protein per slice
- Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep and feeding a crowd
- Customizable with various vegetable and meat add-ins
- Quick 35-minute cooking time
Why This Protein-Packed Breakfast Will Become Your New Favorite
Start your day with a tasty breakfast casserole. It’s not just filling; it’s packed with nutrients. This meal will change your morning and help you reach your health goals.
Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese and Eggs
Your breakfast is a nutritional powerhouse. Cottage cheese and eggs give you a big protein boost:
- One serving has up to 28 grams of protein
- It’s full of calcium, vitamin D, and B12
- It helps your muscles and keeps you energized
Time-Saving Breakfast Solution
Busy mornings need smart meals. This casserole is your quick, healthy meal solution. Make it ahead and start your day stress-free.
“Nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, the simplest meals are the most powerful.” – Nutritional Expert
Perfect for Meal Prep
Save time and eat well with this versatile meal. Here’s why it’s great for meal prep:
- Refrigerate up to 2 days before baking
- Easy to portion and store
- Reheats perfectly for quick meals
This breakfast casserole has only 194 calories per serving. It’s not just a meal; it’s a healthy choice that saves you time.
Essential Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
Making a tasty cottage cheese egg bake needs the right ingredients. These ingredients add nutrition and flavor to your breakfast. This dish is packed with protein and is a great way to start your day.
Main Components for Your Egg Bake
The base of your baked eggs is built on quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 7 large eggs – the main protein source
- 12 oz 2% cottage cheese
- 10 oz frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers
Boost your cottage cheese egg bake with these seasonings:
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Recommended Kitchen Equipment
To make your egg bake just right, you’ll need these tools:
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Optional: Blender for smoother texture
- Meal prep containers for storage
“The secret to a great egg bake is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and seasoning them perfectly.”
Pro tip: Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to your baked eggs. This recipe is flexible, letting you make a breakfast that’s both tasty and healthy.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Making the perfect breakfast bake is simple! This cottage cheese egg dish is quick to make and full of flavor. Just follow a few easy steps.
First, get all your ingredients ready. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps your dish bake evenly and get a golden top.
- Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan well to avoid sticking
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk 12 eggs in a big bowl until smooth
- Add Cottage Cheese: Mix in 1 cup of cottage cheese for extra protein and creaminess
- Season Your Mixture: Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for flavor
- Incorporate Vegetables: Mix in chopped spinach, diced zucchini, and cherry tomatoes
- Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded parmesan cheese
- Bake to Perfection: Pour into the pan and bake for 45 minutes
Your breakfast bake will come out puffy and golden. Let it cool for 15-20 minutes. This lets the eggs set perfectly.
Pro Tip: For the best taste, use fresh ingredients and don’t overmix your eggs!
This dish is packed with protein, serving 4 and about 24 grams of protein per serving. Each slice has only 216 calories. It’s a great choice for a healthy breakfast.
Nutritional Information and Protein Content
Start your day with a low-carb breakfast that’s full of nutrients. The cottage cheese egg bake is a protein-rich meal. It keeps you full and energized all day.
Macronutrient Breakdown
Each serving of this egg bake is packed with nutrients:
- Protein: 22 grams
- Calories: 266 total
- Fat: Approximately 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: Around 6 grams
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients
Your meal is filled with important nutrients from two key ingredients:
- Cottage Cheese: Offers calcium, probiotics, and slow-digesting casein protein
- Eggs: Provides vitamin D, selenium, and choline for brain and bone health
Daily Nutritional Value
This breakfast meets a big part of your daily nutritional needs. Cottage cheese and eggs make a meal that’s full of nutrients. It helps with muscle recovery, keeps energy up, and boosts overall health.
A single serving has more protein than many traditional breakfasts. It’s a great choice for those who care about their health.
Customization Options and Variations
Make your vegetarian breakfast special with this versatile brunch recipe. It lets you get creative in the kitchen. The cottage cheese egg bake is a great base for making a dish that’s just right for you.
Here are some fun ways to change up your egg bake:
- Vegetable Additions:
- Fresh spinach leaves
- Roasted bell peppers
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Chopped artichoke hearts
- Cheese Variations:
- Sharp cheddar
- Crumbled feta
- Goat cheese
- Mozzarella
- Herb Enhancements:
- Fresh basil
- Chopped parsley
- Dill
- Green onions
Want a protein-rich breakfast? Try adding tofu crumbles or tempeh. This recipe is so flexible, you can make a tasty meal that fits your diet and tastes great.
Pro tip: Experiment with different combinations to discover your perfect brunch recipe variation!
Need a dairy-free option? Swap cottage cheese for silken tofu or cashew cream. It keeps the creamy texture and suits many diets.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Turning your cottage cheese egg bake into a make-ahead breakfast is easy. Just follow some smart storage tips. These tips will help keep your breakfast fresh and ready to eat all week.
Refrigeration Tips
Keep your egg bake fresh by storing it in an airtight container. Here’s how to do it right:
- Store in a sealed container
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
- Consume within 5 days
Freezing Instructions
Freezing your egg bake can make meal prep even easier. Here’s how to freeze it:
- Cut into individual servings
- Wrap each portion in plastic wrap
- Place in freezer-safe containers
- Freeze for up to 3 months
Best Reheating Methods
Reheat your breakfast easily with these methods:
Reheating Method | Instructions | Time |
---|---|---|
Microwave | Cover with damp paper towel | 30-45 seconds |
Oven | Preheat to 350°F | 15-25 minutes |
Pro tip: Always thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor!
Follow these tips for storing and reheating your cottage cheese egg bake. It becomes the perfect make-ahead breakfast. Enjoy convenience without losing taste or nutrition.
Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
To make the perfect easy breakfast bake, follow some key techniques. These tips will make your cottage cheese egg bake amazing every time.
- Cottage Cheese Selection: Pick full-fat cottage cheese to avoid a watery texture. Both large and small curd types work well.
- Egg Preparation: Whisk eggs well for fluffiness and a smooth mix.
- Moisture Management: Squeeze out extra moisture from frozen spinach or veggies to keep the right texture.
Pro chefs say blending eggs and cottage cheese first is key. This makes your breakfast creamy and smooth, pleasing everyone.
“The secret to a perfect egg bake is in the details and preparation.” – Breakfast Culinary Expert
Temperature and timing are key for your easy breakfast bake. Preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and follow the cooking guide closely. Let it cool for 15 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes cutting easier.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes total
- Cooling Time: 15 minutes
Make-ahead tip: You can prep the casserole up to 2 days early and refrigerate it. This makes mornings easier for busy people.
Conclusion
Your cottage cheese egg bake is more than a simple breakfast. It’s a meal full of protein that makes mornings better with little effort. This recipe is easy to make and lets you add your favorite ingredients for a healthy start.
This dish is easy to make and can be adjusted to fit your needs. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast or for meal prep. With eggs and cottage cheese, it gives you a boost of energy and keeps you full.
Meal prep doesn’t have to be hard. Learning to make this egg bake is a smart move for healthy eating. Try different cheeses, veggies, and spices to keep your breakfasts interesting. You’re just one recipe away from your new favorite breakfast.
Enjoy the ease, nutrition, and taste of this cottage cheese egg bake. Your taste buds and body will love this smart breakfast choice.
FAQ
How long can I store the cottage cheese egg bake in the refrigerator?
Can I freeze the cottage cheese egg bake?
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
How much protein does this egg bake contain?
Can I prepare this egg bake in advance?
What vegetables work best in this egg bake?
How do I reheat the egg bake?
Is this recipe low-carb?
Can I use different types of cheese?
What’s the best way to prevent a watery egg bake?
Source Links
- Cottage Cheese & Veggie Egg Bake
- Cottage Cheese Egg Bake (20 Grams of Protein) – iFoodReal.com
- Healthy Cottage Cheese & Spinach Egg Bake
- High Protein Egg Casserole with Cottage Cheese – Wholesomelicious
- Cottage Cheese Egg Bake (High Protein!)
Ingredients
Base:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- ½ cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
Seasonings:
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ cup cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled
- ¼ cup diced onions
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.
- Add Vegetables:
- Fold in the diced bell peppers, spinach, and any optional add-ins like cooked bacon or onions.
- Pour and Bake:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the egg bake cool for 5 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm as a breakfast dish or pair with a side salad for lunch.
Notes
- Customizable: Swap spinach with kale or add your favorite herbs like parsley or chives.
- Meal Prep: This egg bake is great for meal prepping. Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds