If you’re searching for a nutritious dish that’s both filling and flavorful, I have just the thing for you — my High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe is a total home-run in my kitchen. It’s packed with protein, easy to throw together, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick dinner. Trust me, once you try this egg bake, you’ll find it’s a dependable, crowd-pleasing recipe that keeps everyone fueled and happy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein and Nutrients: Thanks to cottage cheese and eggs, it’s a powerhouse to keep you full longer.
- Super Easy to Make: You don’t have to be a pro—just mix, layer, and bake!
- Versatile and Flavorful: Loaded with fresh veggies and cheeses that add both taste and texture.
- Great for Meal Prep: Slices reheat beautifully, perfect for busy mornings or grab-and-go meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that blend together beautifully. When you use fresh veggies and good-quality cheeses, the whole dish tastes so much richer. Here’s what I like to stock up on before I whip this up.
- Eggs: The base for the bake, eggs give structure and protein; I always use large eggs for consistent results.
- Full-fat cottage cheese: It adds creaminess and an extra punch of protein — don’t skip full-fat for the best texture.
- Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color; dice it small so it cooks evenly.
- Yellow onion: Brings a mellow savoriness; finely diced to blend smoothly into the bake.
- Fresh spinach: I toss in lots of greens for flavor and nutrients — it wilts down perfectly during baking.
- Gruyere or gouda cheese: These melt beautifully and give a subtle nuttiness that pairs well with eggs.
- Cheddar cheese: For that classic sharpness and golden finish on top.
- Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper: Essential to make the flavors pop in a balanced, savory way.
Variations
One of my favorite things about the High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you’re catering to specific tastes or just want to switch things up, there’s plenty of room for creativity.
- Swap veggies: I love trying mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes based on what’s fresh in my fridge — each adds a unique flavor.
- Cheese options: Sometimes I use feta or parmesan to change the flavor profile; it’s all about what cheese you love most.
- Spice it up: Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes gives it a little kick, perfect for spice lovers like me!
- Make it dairy-free: Using dairy-free cottage cheese alternatives and skipping one of the cheeses works great if you’re avoiding dairy.
How to Make High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies and Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish well. I use a non-stick spray to keep cleanup simple. While the oven’s warming, chop your red bell pepper, onion, and spinach into small, bite-sized pieces so they’ll cook evenly and be pleasant to bite into. Spread these chopped veggies in an even layer at the bottom of the dish — this base adds great texture and flavor.
Step 2: Mix the Egg and Cottage Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, crack all twelve eggs and whisk them thoroughly until the yolks and whites are fully combined. You’ll want to break the yolks well to avoid any uneven cooking or texture. Next, add in the full-fat cottage cheese, your garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a quarter cup of shredded gouda cheese. Stir everything together into a smooth, protein-packed mixture.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour this egg and cheese mixture right over your veggies in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly so each slice will have a good balance of eggs and veggies. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top for that bubbly, golden crust we all love. Place the dish on the middle rack and bake for about 50-55 minutes or until the egg bake is set but still a little tender in the middle.
Step 4: Cooling and Serving
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and resist the temptation to slice it immediately — letting it cool for at least 15 minutes helps the bake firm up, making your slices neat and clean. When it’s cool enough, cut into squares and serve warm. You’ll love how creamy and fluffy it is, with a wonderful savory flavor in every bite!
Pro Tips for Making High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe
- Don’t Rush the Cooling Step: I learned that slicing too soon makes the bake crumble, so take those extra minutes.
- Full-fat Cottage Cheese Is Key: This makes the bake super creamy and prevents dryness.
- Even Veggie Pieces: Chopping veggies finely ensures they cook fully and don’t release too much water.
- Check Doneness with a Knife: Insert a knife into the center; it should come out mostly clean for perfect texture.
How to Serve High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe
Garnishes
I usually top my slices with a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley for a fresh herbal pop. Sometimes I add a dollop of salsa or avocado slices for extra creaminess and zing—these garnishes make each bite more exciting and personalized.
Side Dishes
It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a simple mixed greens salad, or even roasted sweet potatoes on the side. These contrasting textures and flavors balance the richness of the egg bake perfectly. When I serve it for brunch, I often add some crisp bacon or turkey sausage to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For holidays or brunch parties, I’ve turned this egg bake into a layered casserole with colorful veggies stacked in strata style—it’s as pretty as it is tasty. You can also bake it in muffin tins for individual servings, which are perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or kid-friendly portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they keep well for up to 4 days. I recommend placing parchment paper between layers if you stack the slices so they don’t stick together. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeks!
Freezing
Freezing works great too—just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When I want to enjoy a quick meal, I defrost overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently. You’ll find the texture stays creamy and delicious.
Reheating
I prefer reheating slices in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes to restore that freshly baked feel and melt the cheese delightfully. Microwave works too if you’re in a hurry—just cover to retain moisture and heat in 30-second bursts to keep it from drying out.
FAQs
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Can I use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but keep in mind that full-fat cottage cheese gives the best creamy texture and flavor. Low-fat versions tend to make the bake a bit drier and less rich, so if you prefer those, consider adding a splash of milk or a tablespoon of olive oil to balance it out.
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How do I know when the egg bake is fully cooked?
The best way is to insert a knife into the center—it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs attached. The bake will be set and slightly puffed up but still soft to the touch. Overbaking can dry it out, so keep an eye close after 50 minutes.
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Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This egg bake is naturally gluten-free as it uses only eggs, veggies, cheeses, and seasonings. Just double-check that any added seasoning blends you use don’t contain gluten fillers.
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Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. It holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it an excellent option for prepping breakfasts or lunches ahead of time. Just slice and portion it out for quick reheating throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe turns out every single time — it’s like a warm, satisfying hug on a plate. It’s become one of my go-tos whenever I want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll enjoy the creamy texture combined with the fresh veggies, and your family or guests will thank you for such a tasty, wholesome dish. Give it a try and let it become your new favorite protein-packed comfort food!
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High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a wholesome and satisfying breakfast casserole packed with eggs, creamy full-fat cottage cheese, and nutrient-rich vegetables. Featuring diced red bell pepper, yellow onion, and spinach, layered with a blend of gouda, gruyere, and cheddar cheeses, this bake offers a delicious mix of flavors and textures perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Baked to perfection until set and lightly golden on top, it’s an excellent high-protein, low-carb option to start your day.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large red bell pepper – diced
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- 4 cups chopped spinach
Dairy & Eggs
- 12 large eggs
- 16 ounces full-fat cottage cheese
- ¼ cup shredded gruyere or gouda cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures your bake will come out easily after cooking.
- Layer the veggies: Add the diced red bell pepper, yellow onion, and chopped spinach in an even layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This forms a flavorful vegetable base for the egg mixture.
- Mix eggs and cheese: Crack all 12 eggs into a large mixing bowl and whisk thoroughly to fully break the yolks. Stir in the full-fat cottage cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and ¼ cup of the shredded gouda (or gruyere) cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Combine and assemble: Pour the egg and cottage cheese mixture evenly over the vegetable layer in the baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly, then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake until set: Place the baking dish on the middle oven rack and bake for 50-55 minutes. The egg bake is done when it is set in the center and a knife inserted comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes. This resting time helps the bake to set further and makes slicing easier. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cottage cheese for creaminess and flavor.
- Chop vegetables into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the bake.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out mostly clean when the bake is fully cooked.
- Let the egg casserole cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 370mg