Baked cottage cheese eggs are a healthy and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the richness of eggs, all baked together to create a delicious, protein-packed dish. With minimal ingredients and a simple preparation method, these eggs are perfect for those looking for a nutritious meal to start the day.
This recipe is versatile and can be customized with your favorite spices, herbs, or vegetables. You can enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with toast, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Protein-Packed
With both cottage cheese and eggs as the base, this dish is loaded with protein, making it a perfect option for a filling breakfast or post-workout meal.
2. Simple to Make
With just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish can be prepared in no time. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you still want something wholesome.
3. Customizable
You can add vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or bell peppers to this dish for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs and seasonings to create your own variation.
4. Low-Carb Option
This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
5. Versatile
Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or even as a light dinner. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and can be served at any time of day.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or thyme) for garnish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Variations
- Veggie Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs: Add chopped spinach, tomatoes, onions, or bell peppers to the mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheesy Cottage Cheese Eggs: Mix in your favorite cheese varieties like mozzarella or feta to enhance the flavor.
- Spicy Cottage Cheese Eggs: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for some extra heat.
- Herbed Cottage Cheese Eggs: Experiment with fresh or dried herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano to add an aromatic touch.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a small baking dish (about 8×8 inches) with olive oil or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, salt, and pepper. If you’re adding cheese, herbs, or vegetables, stir them into the mixture.
Step 3: Pour into the Baking Dish
Pour the egg and cottage cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden. Check with a toothpick to ensure the eggs are fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavor and color.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use fresh eggs: The fresher your eggs, the better the texture and flavor of this dish.
- Don’t over-bake: Keep an eye on the eggs as they bake. Over-baking can make them dry, so it’s best to take them out as soon as the eggs are fully set.
- Grease the pan: Make sure your baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking, especially if you’re using a non-stick dish.
- For extra fluffiness: Whisk the eggs vigorously before mixing in the cottage cheese to incorporate more air, which will make the eggs fluffier as they bake.
How to Serve
- With Toast: Serve the baked cottage cheese eggs with a slice of whole grain toast or an English muffin for a more substantial breakfast.
- With a Side Salad: Pair it with a fresh side salad for a balanced, nutritious lunch or dinner.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms make a delicious side that complements the creamy eggs.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover baked cottage cheese eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Freezing
This dish can also be frozen for later use. Allow the baked eggs to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the eggs in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use egg substitutes in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with egg replacers like flax eggs or chia eggs. However, the texture may vary slightly.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake the next day.
3. Can I use non-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use non-fat or low-fat cottage cheese, but keep in mind that the texture and richness might be slightly different.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
5. Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use mozzarella, feta, or any other cheese of your choice to customize the flavor.
Conclusion
Baked cottage cheese eggs are a healthy, easy, and delicious dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. With their creamy texture, rich flavor, and high protein content, they’re a great choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Plus, they’re highly customizable, so you can add your favorite ingredients to make them truly your own. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a nutritious addition to your meal plan, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
PrintBaked Cottage Cheese Eggs Recipe
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings (can be adjusted for more servings) 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs are a healthy, easy-to-make dish that pairs the creaminess of cottage cheese with the richness of eggs. Baked to perfection, this dish is perfect for a high-protein meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat, depending on preference)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small baking dish (8×8-inch or similar) with olive oil or butter. -
Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. -
Crack the Eggs:
Carefully crack the eggs into the cottage cheese mixture, spacing them out evenly. Season the eggs with a little more salt and pepper, and add paprika if desired for color and flavor. -
Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your liking. If you prefer runnier yolks, bake for 18 minutes; for firmer yolks, bake closer to 25 minutes.
-
Garnish and Serve:
Once the eggs are done, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with chopped chives for freshness. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes to the cottage cheese mixture before baking for added flavor and nutrition.
- For extra creaminess, you can mix a little bit of heavy cream or milk into the cottage cheese before combining with the eggs.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for various flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Low Carb
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs, Cottage Cheese and Eggs, Healthy Baked Eggs, Protein-packed Breakfast, Easy Brunch Recipe