Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole
A Savory Morning Surprise
Ever had a breakfast so good you could eat it for lunch and dinner too? Meet the Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole — a creamy, cheesy delight laden with flavors that dance on your palate! This dish is perfect for busy mornings or lazy brunches, providing all the comfort of a hearty meal in just one pan. Trust me, once you smell it baking, you’ll be counting down the minutes ‘til you can dig in!
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons you’ll want to whip up this casserole. First off, easy cleanup! Just one dish means less time washing up and more time enjoying your food. Plus, it’s affordable and uses ingredients you probably already have on hand. And let’s face it – who wouldn’t appreciate a dish that pleases everyone from picky eaters to health enthusiasts? 🙌
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 10 large eggs
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend of choice)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional add-in)
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (optional add-in)
- ½ cup cooked chicken ham or turkey bacon, diced (optional add-in)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl and whisk until yolks and whites are fully combined.
- Stir in the cottage cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Fold in optional add-ins like spinach, bell peppers, or turkey bacon. Stir gently!
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is firm. Check doneness with a knife—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
- Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, and then slice into squares. Serve warm.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole (Overview)
Making this casserole is a breeze! Crack some eggs, mix in the cottage cheese, and you’re halfway there. Don’t forget to fold in any optional ingredients for extra flavor. Pour it all in your greased dish and let the oven work its magic for about 45–55 minutes. Pro tip: Check on it halfway through for that perfect golden top!
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole
When it’s time to serve, cut it into squares and bask in the warm aroma wafting from the kitchen. Picture this: delightful golden squares with crispy edges, a creamy interior bursting with vibrant green spinach and rich, melty cheese. Pair it with a light side salad or some crusty toast for an eye-catching and tummy-filling brunch. Now that’s what I call presentation! 😋
How to Store Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole
Once you’ve savored your share, store any leftovers in the fridge. This casserole keeps well for about 3–4 days. Planning ahead? You can also freeze individual pieces! Just wrap ‘em tightly in plastic wrap and pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready for a quick bite, reheat in the oven or microwave – just don’t forget to watch it like a hawk!
Tips to Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole
- Don’t skimp on the cheese! The more cheese, the merrier, right?
- Add more veggies. Sneak in some mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Timing is everything. Make sure to let it cool for a few minutes before slicing to avoid a cheesy avalanche!
- Feel free to switch up spices based on your mood—paprika or chili flakes can add a nice kick!
Variation
Want to mix it up? Try swapping out cottage cheese for a plant-based alternative, like tofu or almond-based cream, to make it vegan! You can also change the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs or switching to feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before, store it in the fridge, and bake it right before serving.
Can I freeze leftover portions?
Yes! Just be sure to wrap them well before freezing. They’ll keep for about 1-2 months.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
You can use ricotta cheese or a vegan cream cheese for a different texture and taste.
Get ready to dig in! Your taste buds will thank you. 📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl and whisk until yolks and whites are fully combined.
- Stir in the cottage cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Fold in optional add-ins like spinach, bell peppers, or turkey bacon. Stir gently!
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is firm. Check doneness with a knife—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
- Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, and then slice into squares. Serve warm.
