Mornings can be busy, but you don’t have to miss out on a good breakfast. Imagine starting your day with the smell of a tasty protein-packed breakfast casserole ready to go. That’s what this easy cottage cheese egg bake offers!
This breakfast is packed with eggs, cottage cheese, and veggies. It’s a meal that will keep you going all morning. It’s great for big groups or busy weekdays when you need a quick breakfast.
With just a few ingredients and little prep, you can make this cottage cheese egg bake fast. Let’s explore how it can change your morning routine for the better!
Table of Contents
The Perfect Protein-Packed Breakfast
Start your day with a tasty and healthy high protein breakfast. This cottage cheese egg bake has 14 grams of protein per serving. It will keep you full and energized all day.
Why pick a high protein breakfast? Eating protein in the morning helps:
- Increase satiety and reduce hunger
- Support muscle maintenance and growth
- Stabilize blood sugar levels
High Protein Breakfast Benefits
Adding protein-rich foods to your breakfast is smart. Protein takes longer to digest than carbs, keeping you full longer. This can stop you from snacking too much later.
Also, eating protein at breakfast helps keep your muscles strong. It’s especially good for those who exercise regularly.
Cottage Cheese: A Nutritional Powerhouse
Cottage cheese is a key ingredient in this breakfast bake. It’s packed with nutrients. A single cup of Daisy Brand cottage cheese has:
- 26 grams of protein
- High levels of B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, and selenium
- Casein protein, which helps prevent muscle breakdown
Let’s compare cottage cheese to other breakfast foods:
| Food | Protein per Serving |
|---|---|
| Cottage Cheese (1 cup) | 26 grams |
| Egg (1 large) | 6 grams |
| Whole Wheat Bread (1 slice) | 3.5 grams |
Adding cottage cheese to your breakfast is a smart move. It’s creamy, mild, and full of nutrients. This cottage cheese egg bake is a great way to kick off your day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Get these key egg bake ingredients for a tasty and healthy breakfast casserole. It will make your morning better and keep you full.
Eggs
This cottage cheese egg bake starts with a dozen large eggs. They offer 20 grams of protein per serving. Eggs are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a great breakfast choice.
Cottage Cheese
Full-fat cottage cheese (4%) is a main ingredient, making the dish creamy and protein-rich. With 2 cups, it ensures a filling and satisfying meal.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Large Eggs | 14 |
| Full-fat Cottage Cheese | 2 cups |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Shredded Parmesan Cheese (optional) | 1/2 cup |
Vegetables
This recipe adds color and flavor with 1.5 cups of cherry tomatoes and 1/2 cup of fresh basil. You can also use baby spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions to make it your own.
Seasonings and Herbs
Enhance the taste with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings blend well with the other ingredients, making a balanced and tasty breakfast casserole.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. With a variety of ingredients to choose from, you can create a unique and flavorful egg bake that caters to your tastes and dietary preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Want to make a cottage cheese egg bake? Follow these easy steps to make a tasty breakfast casserole. It’s perfect for a morning boost.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish lightly.
- Put sliced tomatoes and fresh basil leaves at the bottom of the dish. Make sure they cover the whole area.
- In a big bowl, mix 4 large eggs, ⅓ cup (80g) cottage cheese, ⅓ cup (80ml) milk, ¼ cup (25g) Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the egg mix over the tomatoes and basil. Make sure it spreads evenly.
Want more protein? Add 1.5 oz (43g) diced ham or your favorite meat to the egg mix. You can also add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to make it your own.
- Put the dish in the oven and bake for 35 minutes. The eggs should be set, and the top golden.
- Take the dish out of the oven. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
This recipe makes 6 servings. Each serving has 23g of protein, 17g of fat, and only 3g of carbs. It’s great for low-carb or keto diets. The eggs, cottage cheese, and Cheddar cheese make a creamy, protein-rich dish that keeps you full all morning.
Customizing Your Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
This cottage cheese egg bake recipe is super versatile. You can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. It’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch.
Vegetable Variations
Try adding different veggies to your egg bake for a tasty twist. You can use:
- Bell peppers
- Zucchini
- Butternut squash
- Kale
For a vegetarian breakfast, skip the meat and add more veggies. It’s already packed with spinach and cherry tomatoes. These add vitamins and antioxidants.
Meat and Cheese Options
Want more flavor and protein? Add cooked meats like:
- Sausage
- Bacon
- Ham
Try different cheeses for a unique taste. Swap parmesan for cheddar, mozzarella, feta, or pepper jack.
Herb and Spice Combinations
Change up the herbs and spices for new flavors. Here are some great combos:
| Herb/Spice | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Basil and oregano | Italian-inspired |
| Cumin and chili powder | Mexican-inspired |
| Dill and lemon zest | Fresh and bright |
| Smoked paprika and thyme | Smoky and savory |
Customize your egg bake with veggies, meats, cheeses, and herbs. You’ll have endless egg bake variations to keep your mornings exciting.
Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to serve your cottage cheese egg bake, you have plenty of options. This protein-packed breakfast casserole is great for feeding a crowd. It’s also perfect for quick weekday breakfasts or lunches.
Toppings and Garnishes
Elevate your egg bake with tasty toppings and garnishes. These add flavor, texture, and look great. Here are some delicious options:
- Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, basil, or chives
- Diced avocado for a creamy, nutrient-rich addition
- Salsa or hot sauce to add a zesty kick
- A sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Colby Jack
- Crispy, crumbled bacon for a savory crunch
Side Dishes
To round out your breakfast or brunch, pair your cottage cheese egg bake with sides. These sides add variety and balance to your meal:
| Side Dish | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Fresh fruit salad | Provides a refreshing, sweet contrast to the savory egg bake |
| Whole-grain toast | Offers complex carbohydrates and fiber for sustained energy |
| Roasted potatoes | Adds a hearty, satisfying element to your meal |
| Simple green salad | Contributes vitamins, minerals, and a light, fresh component |
By using these serving suggestions, you can make a well-rounded, appealing, and nutritious meal. Mix and match toppings and sides to suit your tastes and dietary needs. This way, everyone at the table will enjoy their cottage cheese egg bake experience.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips
Start your day off right with the cottage cheese egg bake. It’s perfect for meal prep and saves you time. It’s a great choice for busy families.
After baking and cooling, cut the casserole into portions. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days. On busy mornings, just microwave a portion for 1-2 minutes. You’ll have a protein-rich breakfast in no time.
This recipe makes 6 servings, each with 17.8 grams of protein. Eggs and cottage cheese together make a nutritious breakfast. They keep you full and energized all morning.
| Meal Prep Tips | Details |
|---|---|
| Servings | 6 |
| Refrigerator Storage | 3-5 days |
| Freezer Storage | Up to 3 months |
| Reheating (Microwave) | 1-2 minutes per serving |
| Reheating (Oven) | 15-25 minutes at 350°F |
Successful meal prep means finding recipes that are easy to make, store, and reheat. This cottage cheese egg bake is perfect!
For even more convenience, make the egg bake in individual silicone muffin liners or a muffin tin. This makes grabbing a single serving easy. It simplifies your meal prep routine.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftover cottage cheese egg bake needs proper storage to stay fresh. Here’s how to keep your breakfast casserole in top shape.
Refrigerator Storage
To store your egg bake in the fridge, just follow these steps:
- Let the casserole cool down to room temperature.
- Put it in an airtight container or wrap it with plastic or foil.
- Write the storage date on the container.
- Put it in the fridge.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is a good choice for longer storage:
- Let the egg bake cool down first.
- Wrap it in plastic or foil for individual portions.
- Put the portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Mark the bag with the freezing date.
- Freeze it for up to 2 months.
Tip: Freeze in portions for easy reheating and portion control.
Reheating Guidelines
Ready to enjoy your egg bake again? Here’s how to reheat it:
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Microwave | Unwrap and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, until warm. |
| Oven | Preheat oven to 350°F. Unwrap and bake in a dish for 10-15 minutes, until warm. |
Follow these tips for reheating, and enjoy your cottage cheese egg bake for days. It’s great for meal prep and busy mornings.
Nutritional Information
This cottage cheese egg bake is a great choice for high protein breakfast nutrition. It’s packed with nutrients and has a lot of protein. This makes it a great way to start your day feeling full and energized.
One serving of this egg bake, which is two squares, has about 375 calories and only 6 grams of net carbs. It makes 12 squares, perfect for meal prep or feeding a group. The egg bake nutrition is boosted by spinach, cottage cheese, and eggs.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (2 Squares) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 375 kcal |
| Net Carbs | 6 grams |
| Protein | 32 grams |
| Fat | 22 grams |
This breakfast casserole is a top-notch protein source, with 32 grams per serving. Protein helps build and repair tissues, maintain muscle, and keeps you full. The cottage cheese nutrition facts are impressive, offering low calories, high protein, and calcium.
“Eating a high-protein breakfast has been shown to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness throughout the day, which can help with weight management and overall health.”
It’s also rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. The mix of eggs, cheese, and veggies gives you a balanced start to your day.
Frequently Asked Questions
When making a cottage cheese egg bake, you might have questions. Here are answers to some common ones about this easy breakfast casserole recipe.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This cottage cheese egg bake recipe serves 6 people. It’s great for a family breakfast or brunch.
What is the preparation time for this recipe?
Preparing this recipe takes about 15 minutes. This includes whisking eggs, chopping veggies, and putting everything together.
How long does it take to cook the egg bake?
Cooking this cottage cheese egg bake takes about 45 minutes in a preheated oven.
What is the nutritional information per serving?
Each serving of the cottage cheese egg bake has:
- 174 calories
- 9.1g total fat
- 3.1g saturated fat
- 317mg cholesterol
- 607mg sodium
- 4.7g total carbohydrates
- 0.1g dietary fiber
- 2.4g sugars
- 18.2g protein
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can try different cheeses like mozzarella, gruyere, goat cheese, pepper jack, or an Italian blend.
How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Is it recommended to freeze the egg casserole?
It’s not recommended to freeze the egg casserole. Freezing and thawing can change the texture.
Is this egg bake considered a healthy breakfast option?
Yes, this cottage cheese egg bake is a healthy breakfast. It’s high in protein, low-carb, keto-friendly, low in fat, and gluten-free.
The nutritional information provided is based on calculations from an online calculator and may vary based on cooking methods and ingredients used.
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe Variations
Want to try something new for breakfast? These egg bake recipe variations are sure to delight. You can make a spinach feta egg bake, a bacon cheddar breakfast casserole, or a colorful vegetarian supreme version. Just a few tweaks can change up your morning meal.
Spinach and Feta
Add a Mediterranean twist to your egg bake with sautéed spinach and feta cheese. The mix of creamy cottage cheese, tangy feta, and spinach is a flavor dream. It’s also a healthy start to your day, full of protein and vitamins.
Bacon and Cheddar
For a classic taste, add crispy bacon and shredded cheddar to your egg bake. This bacon cheddar breakfast casserole is perfect for a savory morning meal. The salty bacon and sharp cheddar pair well with the creamy cottage cheese and fluffy eggs.
Vegetarian Supreme
Looking for a meat-free option? Fill your egg bake with your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and zucchini add color, texture, and nutrients. You can customize it with your favorite veggies, making it a flexible and healthy choice.
Choosing any of these variations makes your cottage cheese egg bake a nutritious and tasty breakfast. It has 16 grams of protein and only 219 calories per serving. Plus, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it for a quick breakfast on busy days.
Tips for Involving Kids in the Kitchen
Cooking with kids is a great way to bond and teach them important skills. The Cottage Cheese Egg Bake recipe is perfect for this. Here are some tips to make it fun and educational for everyone:
- Assign tasks based on their age and skills. Young kids can whisk eggs or arrange ingredients. Older kids can chop veggies or measure ingredients.
- Teach kitchen safety first. Show them how to use kid-safe knives and handle hot dishes. Keep their area clean to avoid germs.
- Use cooking to teach about nutrition, math, and science. Talk about cottage cheese’s protein benefits. Have them count eggs or discuss how the dish changes as it cooks.
Remember, patience and supervision are key when cooking with kids. Enjoy the mess and quality time together. This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake recipe serves 12-16, giving you lots of chances to cook with your kids.
When making recipes for kids, use fun and colorful ingredients. The Cottage Cheese Egg Bake can be customized with your family’s favorite ingredients. Let your kids choose toppings for the dish.
Cooking with kids is messy and requires extra time and patience, but it’s so worth it. The memories made and skills learned will last a lifetime.
By cooking with your kids, you’re teaching them healthy eating habits. So, gather your ingredients, put on aprons, and make a delicious Cottage Cheese Egg Bake together!
Why This Recipe Works
This cottage cheese egg bake is a top pick for easy breakfast recipes. It’s a tasty and nutritious breakfast idea great for busy mornings or big gatherings. Its customizable ingredients and simple steps make it a hit with families.
Easy to Prepare
Making this recipe is a breeze. You need just a few ingredients and a short time to get a yummy breakfast. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Whisk eggs and cottage cheese in a big bowl.
- Add your favorite veggies, meats, and spices.
- Put the mix in a greased 9×13 inch pan.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, until it’s set in the middle.
Nutritious and Filling
This egg bake is not just tasty but also very healthy. It’s full of protein from eggs and cottage cheese. This keeps you full and energized all morning. Here’s what you get per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 155 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 8.1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2.9 g |
| Fiber | 0.7 g |
Versatile and Customizable
This recipe is also super flexible. You can change it up to fit your taste and diet by swapping out ingredients. Try adding your favorite veggies, meats, and cheeses. Some fun options include:
- Spinach and feta
- Bacon and cheddar
- Vegetarian supreme with bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms
Customizing your cottage cheese egg bake means you’ll always have a tasty breakfast ready. It’s sure to be a hit with your family.
Conclusion
The cottage cheese egg bake is a tasty and filling breakfast. It’s packed with protein and easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can have a healthy meal ready in 25 minutes.
This recipe is great because you can make it your own. Try different veggies, meats, and spices to match your taste. It’s also low in calories and fat, making it perfect for diets like keto.
Looking for a quick breakfast or a meal to impress friends? The cottage cheese egg bake is perfect. You can store leftovers for days or freeze them for months. Try it out and see how easy it is to start your day right!