Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

This Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a delightful dish that brings together fluffy eggs, creamy cottage cheese, crispy bacon, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or a quick lunch, this recipe stands out for its protein-packed goodness and versatility. With the ability to adapt it to be gluten-free and make it ahead of time, it’s a true winner for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

This bake is not just delicious; it also comes with several notable benefits.

• Protein-Packed: Each serving offers a hearty dose of protein from eggs and cottage cheese, making it a great choice for breakfast or lunch.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Add different vegetables or use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this dish in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve, saving you time on busy mornings.
• Great for Gatherings: This egg bake serves 16, making it an excellent choice for brunches or family gatherings where you want to impress without too much hassle.
• Gluten-Free Option: With a simple substitute for flour, this recipe can easily accommodate gluten-free diets.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cooking spray
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking pan: The perfect size for evenly baking the egg mixture, ensuring all portions are cooked through.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling over.
• Whisk: Essential for thoroughly mixing the eggs and other ingredients for a fluffy texture.

Ingredients

Egg Mixture:

• 12 large eggs
• 16 ounces shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
• 32 ounces small curd cottage cheese (4% milkfat recommended)
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free substitute, like Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten Free Baking Flour)
• 1 teaspoon Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (plus extra for sprinkling)

Vegetables & Add-ins:

• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen, chopped spinach, thawed and drained very well (squeezed with paper towels)
• 1 cup small-diced red bell pepper, divided
• ½ cup minced yellow onion
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Bacon:

• 1 pound bacon, cooked and chopped (set aside ¼ cup for topping)

Optional Garnish:

• Chopped green onion

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How to Make Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Bacon

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Cook the bacon until chewy-crisp using your preferred method (stovetop or oven).
3. Cool the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Discard any large pieces of fat.

Step 2: Combine Egg Mixture

1. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
2. Set aside ¼ cup of the chopped bacon and ½ cup of the shredded Colby Jack cheese for topping.
3. Add the remaining bacon, remaining Colby Jack cheese, spinach, cottage cheese, melted butter, half of the red bell pepper, and all of the onion to the eggs. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

1. Sprinkle the flour, Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, black pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese over the egg mixture.
2. Stir until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch pan.
2. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese, bacon, and red bell pepper evenly over the top.
3. Add the reserved Colby Jack cheese on top along with a generous sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.
4. Cover with foil or a lid and bake for 40 minutes.
5. Remove cover and bake for an additional 20–30 minutes until the center is firm. If browning too much on top, re-cover.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove from oven and let sit for 15–20 minutes to allow it to firm up before cutting.
2. Garnish with chopped green onion if desired and serve warm.

How to Serve Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

This Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply enjoying a meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

For Brunch Gatherings

• With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside a colorful fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Toast: Pair with whole-grain toast or avocado toast for added texture and flavor.

As a Quick Lunch

• Green Salad: Accompany with a side of mixed greens drizzled with vinaigrette for a light option.
• Soup: Serve with a warm bowl of tomato soup for a comforting lunch combo.

For Meal Prep

• Reheat Portions: Portion leftovers into individual servings for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Wrap it Up: Slice and wrap pieces in tortillas for an easy-to-eat sandwich.

Garnish Options

• Chopped Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top for added freshness.
• Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the bake for a spicy kick.

How to Perfect Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

To ensure your Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Boldly Squeeze Spinach: Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach to prevent a watery bake.
• Boldly Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Boldly Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking process; if the top browns too quickly, cover it again with foil.
• Boldly Let it Rest: Allow the egg bake to sit after removing from the oven; this helps firm up the texture before serving.

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Best Side Dishes for Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

Pairing your Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Bold Green Smoothie: A blend of spinach, banana, and almond milk provides vitamins and energy.
2. Bold Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned carrots and zucchini make for a colorful and nutritious side.
3. Bold Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes adds texture and nutrients.
4. Bold Sweet Potato Hash: Crispy sweet potatoes add sweetness and crunch, perfect alongside the egg bake.
5. Bold Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with berries and granola for a satisfying contrast in textures.
6. Bold Whole Grain Muffins: Serve warm muffins on the side for a delightful breakfast treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake, it’s easy to overlook some important details that can affect the final dish. Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using wet spinach: If you don’t squeeze out as much water as possible from the spinach, your egg bake can become watery. Make sure to drain and pat the spinach dry with paper towels.
• Overcooking the eggs: Cooking the bake for too long can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on it during the last stages of baking and remove it once the center is firm.
• Skipping the resting time: Letting the egg bake rest after cooking is crucial for achieving the right texture. Skipping this step may result in a softer, less cohesive dish.
• Not greasing the pan properly: Failing to spray or grease your baking dish can cause the egg bake to stick. Always use nonstick cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal.
• Ignoring customization options: The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Not using different vegetables or cheeses can limit flavor variety. Explore adding your favorite ingredients!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake nutritious?

This dish is packed with protein from eggs and cottage cheese while including nutritious vegetables, making it a balanced meal option.

Can I make this Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving for a fresh taste.

How do I customize my Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake?

Feel free to swap out vegetables or add different types of cheese based on your taste preferences!

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free flour substitute like Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten Free Baking Flour.

Final Thoughts

The Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion—be it brunch or a quick lunch. With its high protein content and customizable ingredients, this dish caters to various dietary needs while remaining deliciously satisfying. Give it a try, and feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies and cheeses!

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Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake

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• Author: Emily
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 16 1x

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Description

Healthy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a mouthwatering dish that combines fluffy eggs, creamy cottage cheese, crispy bacon, and colorful vegetables. This protein-packed bake is perfect for brunch gatherings, quick lunches, or meal prep, making it a versatile option for any occasion. With the ability to customize ingredients and easily adapt to gluten-free diets, this egg bake is not only delicious but also nutritious. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures while nourishing your body with every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 large eggs
• 32 ounces small curd cottage cheese (4% milkfat recommended)
• 16 ounces shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1 pound bacon, cooked and chopped
• 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free substitute)
• 1 teaspoon Lawry's Seasoned Salt
• ½ cup minced yellow onion
• 1 cup small-diced red bell pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Cook bacon until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and add cottage cheese, melted butter, spinach, half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese, chopped bacon (reserve some for topping), onion, and half of the red bell pepper; mix well.
4. Sprinkle flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, and half of the Parmesan over the mixture; stir until combined.
5. Pour into the prepared baking pan and top with reserved bacon, remaining Colby Jack cheese, red bell pepper, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes; uncover and bake for an additional 20–30 minutes until the center is firm.
7. Let sit for 15–20 minutes before cutting. Garnish with green onions if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 300mg