Start your day right with a delicious and incredibly easy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole! This fantastic recipe takes the humble egg casserole to new heights by incorporating cottage cheese, adding a delightful creamy texture and a powerful protein punch.
Numerous health organizations highlight that the high protein content in cottage cheese can contribute to satiety and muscle health. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of cottage cheese.
It’s a simple, healthy solution for breakfast, brunch, or even meal prep, making busy mornings effortlessly delicious. Get ready to enjoy a versatile dish perfect for any day of the week.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
This simple cottage cheese egg bake casserole is a game-changer for your kitchen. Busy parents and beginners will especially appreciate its straightforward nature.
- High Protein for Satiety: Packed with protein from eggs and cottage cheese, it keeps you full and energized.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: Minimal steps mean less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying.
- Fluffy, Custardy Texture: The cottage cheese creates an incredibly light and moist consistency.
- Perfect for Meal Prepping: Prepare a batch once and enjoy wholesome breakfasts all week long.
- Infinitely Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, and proteins.
Ingredients
To create this delightful Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole, gather these fresh ingredients:
- 14 large eggs
- 2 cups cottage cheese (low fat or full fat)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup loose fresh basil leaves
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
Notes & Substitutions: The beauty of this high-protein egg bake is its flexibility. For the cottage cheese, both low-fat and full-fat varieties work wonderfully, impacting richness slightly. Feel free to swap Parmesan for other cheeses like sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, or tangy feta. Boost your veggie intake by adding sautéed bell peppers, fresh spinach, shredded zucchini, or chopped kale. For a heartier meal, include cooked breakfast sausage, crispy bacon bits, or diced ham. If fresh basil is unavailable, use one tablespoon of dried basil, noting the flavor will be more concentrated.
Equipment
You won’t need many special tools for this easy egg bake. Gather these kitchen essentials:
How To Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole
Making your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time.
Step 1: Prep the Dish and Oven Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. Evenly arrange the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves along the bottom of the prepared dish. This creates a flavorful base for your egg bake.
Step 2: Mix the Egg Base In a large mixing bowl, combine the 14 large eggs, 2 cups of cottage cheese, and 1/2 cup of milk. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended and slightly frothy. If using, add the 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cracked black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake Carefully pour the egg and cottage cheese mixture over the tomatoes and basil in your prepared baking dish. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed across the dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the casserole appears puffy and the eggs are fully set in the center. A slight jiggle is acceptable, but it should not look liquid.
Step 4: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the cottage cheese egg bake casserole from the oven. Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before attempting to slice it. This cooling period helps the casserole set properly, making it easier to cut into neat squares. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, high-protein breakfast.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieve the Best Texture: Avoid overbaking your cottage cheese egg bake; it can become rubbery if cooked too long. Always use a high-quality cottage cheese for the best creamy consistency. Whisk the eggs and milk vigorously to incorporate air, which contributes to a lighter, fluffier texture.
Flavor Enhancements: For a deeper flavor, consider sautéing any added vegetables before incorporating them into the egg mixture. Toasting your dry spices for a minute in a dry pan can unlock more aromatic depth. A tiny pinch of nutmeg in the egg base offers a lovely, subtle savory warmth that complements the cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Always grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking, especially with cheesy casseroles. Do not overfill the casserole dish, as the eggs will puff up during baking. Resist the urge to check for doneness too early; opening the oven frequently can cause the casserole to sink.
Troubleshooting: If your egg bake seems runny after the recommended time, extend the bake time by 5-10 minutes. If the top is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with foil. If it turns out rubbery, adjust your oven temperature or reduce cooking time slightly for your next attempt.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
This cottage cheese egg bake is incredibly versatile for various meals and dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this comforting casserole warm, cut into individual squares. It makes an ideal high-protein breakfast, a satisfying brunch centerpiece, or even a light dinner. Pair it beautifully with a slice of whole-grain toast, a fresh fruit salad, or a crisp green side salad for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions: Store any leftover Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For reheating, simply warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in a preheated oven until heated through.
Freezing Guidelines: This egg bake is wonderfully freezer-friendly. Cut the cooled casserole into individual portions and wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Creative Variations:
- Meat Lovers: Incorporate cooked crumbled sausage, crispy bacon bits, or diced ham into the egg mixture.
- Veggie Packed: Add steamed broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, or finely diced bell peppers.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses like creamy feta, tangy goat cheese, or a Mexican blend.
- Spice It Up: Introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Nutrition
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole provides a wholesome, protein-rich meal. Here’s a look at the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1/9th of casserole):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 194 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Protein | 17g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 4g |
| Trans Fat | 0.03g |
| Cholesterol | 304mg |
| Sodium | 492mg |
| Potassium | 245mg |
| Fiber | 0.2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Vitamin A | 677IU |
| Vitamin C | 6mg |
| Calcium | 151mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Please note that nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this egg bake ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can assemble the entire Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven to bake in the morning for an easy breakfast.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It certainly is! This recipe freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for convenient future meals. Freeze individual portions and reheat them as needed for quick breakfasts.
What kind of cottage cheese should I use?
Both low-fat and full-fat cottage cheese varieties work equally well in this recipe. Choose whichever best suits your dietary preferences; both will contribute to the casserole’s creamy texture.
How do I know when the casserole is cooked through?
The casserole is cooked through when it appears puffy, is set in the center, and no longer jiggles excessively when gently moved. The edges should be golden brown.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile and welcomes numerous customization options. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
For food safety, the USDA recommends that egg dishes reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Final Thoughts
You now have the ultimate recipe for a delicious, high-protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole! This simple dish proves that healthy and satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated. With its easy preparation, incredible flavor, and fantastic meal prep potential, it’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen. Give this versatile recipe a try this week and experience just how simple and delicious your mornings can be. Share your creations and enjoy!
Easy High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 casserole dish. Arrange the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil along the bottom of the dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, and milk; add parmesan cheese if using. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then pour the mixture on top of the basil and tomatoes.
- Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the casserole is puffy and the eggs are set. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
Hi there, I’m chef living in New York City. Every morning, I wake up to the sounds of my little one’s laughter and the comforting routine of preparing breakfast for my family my husband, our child, and my beloved mother, who’s become both my rock and my inspiration since my father passed away. As the only daughter left in our family, I feel a deep responsibility to carry on his memory whenever I step into the kitchen.
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
