Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a delightful high-protein brunch dish that combines the rich flavors of cottage cheese, spinach, and sundried tomatoes. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, this recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs an impressive 30 grams of protein per serving. Its Mediterranean flair makes it a standout choice for any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Each serving boasts 30 grams of protein, making it a filling breakfast option.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of only 10 minutes, you can spend more time enjoying your meal than preparing it.
- Versatile Dish: This bake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a light dinner option.
- Mediterranean Flavors: Enjoy the delicious combination of feta cheese, spinach, and sundried tomatoes that elevate this dish.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this recipe includes wholesome ingredients like spinach and cottage cheese.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake requires just a few essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick pie plate or skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Chopping board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick pie plate or skillet: Prevents the egg bake from sticking, allowing for easy serving and cleanup.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is crucial for combining all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Whisk: Helps to achieve a fluffy texture by properly mixing the eggs with other ingredients.
Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this delicious Cottage Cheese Egg Bake:
Dairy & Eggs
- 1 cup Cottage Cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 9 large Eggs
- 1/3 cup Feta Cheese (note 1)
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 1 cup Baby Spinach
- 1/2 cup Sundried Tomatoes (stored dry, not in oil, cut into stripes) (note 2)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/8 teaspoon Ground Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Toppings
- 1/3 cup Grated Cheddar Cheese (or grated mozzarella)
How to Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 12-inch pie plate skillet with olive oil. Set it aside while you prepare the mixture.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach
Roughly chop the baby spinach leaves and set them aside. You want them small enough to mix well but still recognizable.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, feta cheese, pepper, salt, garlic powder, grated cheddar cheese, and oregano until well combined.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Gently stir in the sundried tomato strips and chopped spinach into your egg mixture. Ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Pour Mixture into Pie Plate
Pour the prepared egg mixture into your oiled pie plate. Spread it out evenly for uniform cooking.
Step 6: Bake in Oven
Place the pie plate on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-25 minutes or until the eggs are set and no longer jiggly in the center.
Step 7: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps maintain structure when you cut it.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice into quarters and serve immediately. Pair with fresh lettuce or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your brunch experience.
Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: Serve with a light mixed greens salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Greek Salad: Pair with a Greek salad that features tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Roasted Vegetables
- Seasoned Zucchini: Roasted zucchini slices add a nice texture and flavor that complements the egg bake.
- Mediterranean Veggies: A medley of roasted bell peppers, eggplant, and onions can enhance the Mediterranean theme.
Bread Options
- Whole Wheat Toast: Crispy whole wheat toast is perfect for scooping up the egg bake or enjoying on the side.
- Pita Bread: Serve warm pita bread to dip into the fluffy egg bake for a fun twist.
Dipping Sauces
- Salsa: A fresh tomato salsa provides a zesty kick that pairs nicely with the savory flavors.
- Tzatziki Sauce: This cool cucumber yogurt dip complements the Mediterranean elements well.
How to Perfect Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
To achieve the best results with your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cheese can elevate the flavor significantly.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices like oregano or garlic powder based on your taste preferences.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Ensure the center is set but not overcooked; it should be firm yet moist.
- Let it Rest: Allowing it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing helps maintain its shape.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Serve Warm: This dish tastes best when served warm, enhancing its creamy texture and rich flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
Pairing side dishes with your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness to your plate.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the egg bake and adds healthy fats.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with herbs provides an excellent source of fiber and protein.
- Sweet Potato Hash: Crispy sweet potato hash is hearty and flavorful, making it an excellent companion.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a sweet touch that balances savory flavors.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs offers a comforting side option that complements well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, avoiding common mistakes can lead to a better final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your cottage cheese and eggs. Expired ingredients can ruin the taste.
- Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat can result in uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is at the right temperature before baking.
- Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing the pie plate may cause sticking. Use a light spray of olive oil to prevent this issue.
- Overmixing the egg mixture: Mixing too much can make your bake dense. Stir just until combined for a fluffy texture.
- Ignoring baking time: Baking too long will dry out your egg bake. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness around 15 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the Cottage Cheese Egg Bake to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a container.
Reheating Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this delicious Cottage Cheese Egg Bake.
Can I use different cheeses in my Cottage Cheese Egg Bake?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.
How do I customize my Cottage Cheese Egg Bake?
You can add veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms. Spices like paprika or fresh herbs can also enhance taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and silken tofu instead of cottage cheese for a creamy texture without dairy.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it fresh in the morning!
Final Thoughts
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is not only high in protein but also packed with Mediterranean flavors that everyone will love. It’s perfect for brunch or any potluck occasion. Feel free to customize it with your preferred ingredients to suit your taste!
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a deliciously nutritious dish perfect for brunch or family gatherings. Combining the hearty flavors of cottage cheese, fresh spinach, and sundried tomatoes, this high-protein bake delivers a satisfying meal that boasts an impressive 30 grams of protein per serving. The Mediterranean twist from feta cheese and oregano elevates this dish, making it not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. Ideal for busy mornings or potluck parties, this easy-to-make recipe can be prepared in just 10 minutes and baked to perfection in under half an hour. Enjoy this versatile bake warm or cold, and watch it become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 9 large eggs
- 1/3 cup feta cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a pie plate with olive oil.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, feta cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano until combined.
- Fold in chopped spinach and sundried tomatoes.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie plate and spread evenly.
- Bake for 15-25 minutes until the center is set.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (160g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 260mg
