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If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s equally perfect for busy mornings, hearty lunches, or easy dinners, look no further than this Irresistibly Easy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe for Meal Prep Recipe. It’s packed with fresh veggies, creamy cottage cheese, and sharp cheddar, all baked to golden, cheesy perfection. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just want a comforting dish that feels homemade, this bake is pure joy in every bite and will quickly become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this bake comes from simple, wholesome ingredients that blend together beautifully to deliver amazing flavor and texture. Each component plays a special role: eggs provide protein and structure, cottage cheese brings creaminess, and the fresh veggies add color and a vibrant freshness that keeps every slice from feeling heavy.
- Cooking Oil: Two tablespoons to lightly sauté veggies and keep everything from sticking, butter also works wonders if you prefer a richer taste.
- Large Eggs: Twelve fresh eggs are the foundation, offering lift and protein-packed goodness that holds the bake together perfectly.
- Cottage Cheese: Two cups give a creamy, tangy bite that keeps the bake moist and delightfully tender.
- Dijon Mustard: One tablespoon adds a subtle, sophisticated zing that balances the richness.
- Bell Pepper: One cup of diced red, yellow, or orange peppers provides sweetness and a pop of color.
- Yellow Onion: One cup finely diced onion delivers essential savory depth to the flavor base.
- Baby Spinach: Three packed cups, roughly chopped, inject freshness and a mild earthiness; kale or Swiss chard are tasty alternatives.
- Garlic: Two cloves minced, because fresh garlic instantly brightens and elevates this dish.
- Paprika: Half a teaspoon adds warm, smoky notes; swap for smoked paprika if you want a deeper flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Half a teaspoon, optional, to amp up the garlicky goodness effortlessly.
- Salt: Half a teaspoon, adjusted to taste, enhances every flavor layer without overpowering.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Two cups divided, melting into the bake with gooey, tangy richness that completes the dish.
How to Make Irresistibly Easy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe for Meal Prep Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating your cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic last, sautéing just until fragrant. Then stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. This aroma-filled step builds the flavorful foundation of the entire bake, so savor it!
Step 2: Mix the Egg and Dairy Base
While the veggies are cooling slightly, crack the eggs into a large bowl. Whisk them thoroughly until they’re light and frothy. Blend in the cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. This creamy egg mixture is the heart of the bake, ensuring every slice stays moist yet fluffy once baked.
Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Cheese
Gently fold the sautéed vegetables into the egg mixture, taking care not to overmix. Then, stir in one cup of the sharp cheddar cheese. This integration means every forkful delivers a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and veggie-packed goodness.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. Pour the mixture evenly into the dish, then sprinkle the remaining cup of sharp cheddar cheese on top to create that irresistible golden crust. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the bake is set in the center and bubbling at the edges. Let it cool slightly before slicing to maintain its shape!
How to Serve Irresistibly Easy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe for Meal Prep Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives lifts the flavors beautifully, adding a burst of green and freshness to each slice. For a little extra zing, add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce, depending on your mood.
Side Dishes
This bake is a star on its own but also pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp garden salad or roasted sweet potatoes. For a fuller meal, steamed asparagus or sautéed mushrooms bring additional textures and colors that complement the bake’s cheesy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings or meal prep boxes, slice the bake into squares and arrange on a platter with colorful veggies or fruit. You can even serve warm slices atop toasted English muffins for a quick and delicious breakfast sandwich option that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, cover your leftover egg bake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and flavorful for about 4 to 5 days, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or grab-and-go breakfast.
Freezing
This Irresistibly Easy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe for Meal Prep Recipe freezes beautifully! Simply wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Keep frozen for up to 2 months—great for those times when you need a homemade meal in a flash.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. The bake retains its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, so it’s just as enjoyable the next day.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in this egg bake?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives a wonderful tang and meltiness, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta for varied flavors and textures.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, swap the cottage cheese and cheddar for your favorite dairy-free alternatives. Just make sure the substitutes melt and bind well to keep the bake’s delightful texture.
How long does this egg bake keep in the refrigerator?
Properly stored, it stays fresh for about 4 to 5 days, making it ideal for meal prep and easy weekday meals.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Definitely! Cooked bacon, sausage, or ham can be folded in with the vegetables to add savory depth and protein.
Is this recipe suitable for keto or low-carb diets?
Yes, this recipe is low in carbs and high in protein and fats, fitting well within keto and low-carb meal plans.
Final Thoughts
Give this Irresistibly Easy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe for Meal Prep Recipe a try—you’ll wonder how you ever prepped meals without it. With minimal ingredients, straightforward steps, and comforting flavors, it’s more than just an egg bake, it’s your new favorite kitchen companion that makes busy days easier and tastier. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Irresistibly Easy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Recipe for Meal Prep Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Irresistibly Easy Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a perfect meal prep recipe that combines protein-rich eggs and cottage cheese with vibrant vegetables and sharp cheddar for a wholesome, flavorful dish. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a protein-packed snack, this bake is easy to prepare and bake, delivering comforting, cheesy goodness in every slice.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Cooking Oil (can substitute with butter if preferred)
- 12 large Eggs (fresh eggs yield the best results)
- 2 cups Cottage Cheese (use low-fat or full-fat based on dietary needs)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (may substitute with yellow mustard if desired)
- 1 cup Bell Pepper (diced; use red, yellow, or orange for best flavor)
- 1 cup Yellow Onion (finely diced; essential for flavor base)
- 3 cups Baby Spinach (packed, roughly chopped; can substitute with kale or Swiss chard)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced; freshly minced is best)
- ½ teaspoon Paprika (can substitute with smoked paprika for a different flavor)
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon Salt (adjust based on preference and dietary restrictions)
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (divided; can substitute with any cheese that melts well)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Then add the roughly chopped baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the egg base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 12 large eggs, 2 cups cottage cheese, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, paprika, garlic powder (if using), and salt until fully combined. Stir in half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Combine vegetables and egg mixture: Add the sautéed vegetable mixture to the egg and cheese mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly distributed.
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking oil or butter. Pour the egg and vegetable mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the egg casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-55 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Cut into 8 equal slices and serve warm. This dish refrigerates well and can be reheated for meal prep throughout the week.
Notes
- You can substitute kale or Swiss chard for the spinach if desired.
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- Adjust salt quantity or cheese type to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Make sure to let the bake cool slightly before slicing to ensure clean slices.
- Use fresh eggs for the best texture and flavor.
- Perfect for meal prep and can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
