Looking for a hearty and nutritious breakfast option? The cottage cheese egg bake is a fantastic choice that combines creamy cottage cheese with fluffy eggs, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs, making it a versatile addition to your breakfast table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this bake is sure to please!
Ingredients
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1/2 cup chopped spinach or your choice of vegetables
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4, with a preparation time of 10 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the bake) contains approximately 220 calories, 18g protein, 15g fat, and 4g carbohydrates. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, and milk.
3. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Add the shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach or your chosen vegetables.
6. Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until set and golden on top.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter version, or use egg whites for a healthier option. Feel free to replace the vegetables with whatever you have on hand, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This cottage cheese egg bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, avocado slices, or whole-grain toast. For an extra treat, serve it with a dollop of salsa or hot sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.
– Avoid overmixing the egg mixture; it should be smooth but not overly beaten.
– Make sure to bake until fully set; undercooked eggs can be unsafe.
– Adjust seasoning to taste; bland seasoning can make the dish unappetizing.
– Experiment with vegetable combinations to avoid monotony.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
– For a creamier texture, add a dollop of sour cream.
– Let the bake sit for a few minutes before slicing to hold its shape.
– Customize the cheese based on your preference for richness.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pour it into the baking dish and bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This cottage cheese egg bake is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add meat to the recipe?
Yes, you can add cooked bacon, sausage, or ham to the egg mixture for added flavor and protein. Just ensure it’s well-cooked before mixing.
How do I know when the bake is done?
The bake is done when it is set in the center and lightly browned on top. You can insert a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean.
Can this dish be served cold?
Yes, the cottage cheese egg bake can be enjoyed cold, making it a great option for meal prep or picnics.
Conclusion
The cottage cheese egg bake is not only a delicious breakfast option but also a nutritious one that can easily be customized to suit your taste. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or as a make-ahead meal for busy mornings!
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach or other vegetables
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, and milk.
- Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the chopped spinach or your chosen vegetables.
- Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until set and golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
