Cottage Cheese & Egg

When it comes to wholesome and satisfying meals, few dishes are as versatile and nutritious as an egg bake. Eggs are a staple in many kitchens, loved for their simplicity, protein content, and endless adaptability. This Cottage Cheese & Egg Bake takes the classic egg dish to a whole new level by adding cottage cheese, mozzarella, fresh herbs, and spices for an extra boost of flavor and creaminess. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to start their day with a protein-packed breakfast or brunch.

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If you’re in search of a delicious, easy-to-make dish that fits into various dietary preferences—whether you’re eating low-carb, high-protein, or simply aiming for a balanced meal—this cottage cheese and egg bake is the perfect solution. With minimal prep work and only 30 minutes in the oven, it’s an excellent recipe for busy mornings or weekend brunches. Plus, it can be customized with your favorite add-ins, making it as versatile as it is delicious.

Why Cottage Cheese and Eggs Are a Winning Combo

Eggs have long been praised as a breakfast superfood. They’re packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals that help you stay full and energized throughout the day. Adding cottage cheese to the mix not only enhances the flavor and texture of the dish but also increases the protein and calcium content. Cottage cheese is rich in casein protein, which digests slowly and keeps you satisfied for longer periods. Plus, its creamy texture makes the eggs incredibly soft and fluffy.

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, too. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner. Whether you’re serving it to your family or keeping it all to yourself, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this Cottage Cheese & Egg Bake so special:

• 6 Large Eggs: Eggs are the foundation of this dish. They provide structure, richness, and an excellent source of high-quality protein. Eggs are also incredibly nutrient-dense, offering vitamins like B12, riboflavin, and selenium.
• 1 Cup Full-Fat Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese adds creaminess and a mild, tangy flavor to the egg bake. Full-fat cottage cheese is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but you can use a lower-fat version if you prefer. Cottage cheese is a fantastic source of protein and calcium, and its curds melt into the eggs as they bake, making the dish soft and velvety.
• 1/4 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, adding a gooey, cheesy layer to the dish. Its mild flavor complements the cottage cheese and eggs, while also contributing to the overall creaminess.
• 2 Tbsp Chopped Fresh Chives: Chives bring a subtle onion flavor that enhances the taste of the eggs without overpowering them. Their fresh, slightly sharp flavor adds a wonderful contrast to the richness of the cheese.
• 1 Tbsp Chopped Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds a pop of color and a mild, earthy flavor to the dish. It’s an easy way to introduce a bit of brightness and freshness to the bake.
• 1/2 Tsp Garlic Powder: Garlic powder infuses the eggs with a subtle savory depth that pairs well with the cheese and herbs. If you love garlic, you can increase the amount or even use fresh minced garlic.
• 1/2 Tsp Onion Powder: Onion powder enhances the flavor of the chives and adds a savory undertone to the egg bake. Like garlic powder, it’s an easy way to bring out extra flavor without needing to chop any additional ingredients.
• 1/4 Tsp Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika gives the dish a gentle smoky flavor and a bit of warmth. It also adds a lovely reddish hue to the top of the bake, making it look even more appetizing.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Seasoning is key to any egg dish. A good pinch of salt and pepper will bring out the flavors of the other ingredients and balance the richness of the cheeses.
• Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: To ensure the egg bake doesn’t stick to the baking dish, a quick spray of cooking spray or a light brush of olive oil will do the trick.

How to Make Cottage Cheese & Egg Bake: Step-by-Step

This egg bake is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few minutes of mixing and 25-30 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a delicious, nutritious dish ready to go. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly preheated oven ensures that your eggs cook evenly and develop a nice golden-brown top.

While the oven is heating up, prepare your baking dish. Grease the dish lightly with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent the eggs from sticking. This will make it much easier to remove the slices once the egg bake is cooked. You can use a small springform pan for a nice presentation, or any small baking dish that you have on hand.

2. Beat the Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, crack the six large eggs and whisk them until they are well beaten. Whisking the eggs thoroughly helps to incorporate air, which will result in a light, fluffy texture once the eggs are baked.

3. Add the Cheeses, Herbs, and Spices

Now, it’s time to add all the delicious flavors to your beaten eggs. Start by adding the 1 cup of full-fat cottage cheese and the 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. The cottage cheese will add creaminess and protein, while the mozzarella provides that irresistible cheesy goodness.

Next, toss in the 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley. These herbs will add freshness and a burst of color to the dish.

To season the eggs, add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika. These spices will add depth and a subtle smokiness, taking the flavor of the egg bake to the next level. Finally, season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Use a whisk or spatula to gently mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Pour the Egg Mixture into the Baking Dish

Once all the ingredients are combined, pour the egg mixture into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly so that it cooks consistently. If you want to add extra toppings, now is the time! You could sprinkle a bit more mozzarella cheese on top, or even add some cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for added flavor and texture.

5. Bake the Cottage Cheese & Egg Bake

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know the egg bake is done when the eggs are fully set and the top is a beautiful golden-brown color. The edges should be slightly puffed up, and the center should feel firm to the touch.

If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil the egg bake for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of the cooking time. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

6. Cool and Serve

Once the egg bake is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve.

Use a sharp knife to cut the egg bake into squares or wedges, depending on the shape of your dish. The inside should be creamy and fluffy, with little pockets of melted cheese and soft cottage cheese curds scattered throughout. The top will have a lovely golden-brown color, with specks of herbs and smoked paprika adding visual appeal.

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Serving Suggestions

This Cottage Cheese & Egg Bake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch. Here are a few ideas to serve it up in style:

1. With Toast and Avocado: Serve a slice of egg bake with a side of whole-grain toast and some avocado slices. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy eggs.
2. On a Bed of Greens: For a lighter option, serve the egg bake on a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice for a simple, refreshing salad.
3. With Fresh Fruit: Balance the richness of the egg bake with a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries, blueberries, or a citrus salad.
4. Add Protein: If you want to make the meal heartier, you can serve the egg bake with a side of bacon, sausage, or smoked salmon.
5. Topped with Hot Sauce or Salsa: If you like a bit of heat, drizzle your slice of egg bake with hot sauce or salsa for an extra kick of flavor.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your Cottage Cheese & Egg Bake turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Full-Fat Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese gives the egg bake the best texture and flavor. However, if you’re watching your fat intake, you can use low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese, though the result will be slightly less creamy.
• Customize with Add-Ins: This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach. You can also switch up the cheese and use cheddar, feta, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Don’t Overbake: Be careful not to overbake the eggs, as they can become dry. The eggs should be fully set but still moist in the center. If you’re unsure, gently press the center of the egg bake with your finger—it should feel firm but slightly springy.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is great for meal prep. Make a batch at the beginning of the week, store it in the refrigerator, and enjoy slices throughout the week. It reheats well in the microwave or oven.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can store the egg bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

This dish also freezes well. To freeze, let the egg bake cool completely, then cut it into individual portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw a portion in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Final Thoughts

The Cottage Cheese & Egg Bake is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and wholesome ingredients, this egg bake is a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re hosting brunch, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a nutritious breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Give it a try, customize it to your liking, and enjoy the deliciousness of this protein-packed egg bake!