This easy cottage cheese egg bake is packed with roasted broccoli, mushrooms, and baby spinach, making it a protein-rich, vegetarian recipe. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, it’s light, fluffy, and simple to prepare. Perfect for meal prep or entertaining, it’s a nutritious and flavorful dish that pairs well with a salad, fruit, or crusty bread.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For broccoli and mushrooms:

• 2 cups small to medium broccoli florets
• 8 ounces sliced baby bella or cremini mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 scallion, thinly sliced

For egg and cottage cheese base:

• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 cup 2%-4% cottage cheese
• 1 cup torn baby spinach
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan
• 1 tablespoon minced chives

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F, placing a sheet pan on the middle rack.
2. Toss the broccoli and mushrooms with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the hot sheet pan and roast for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Once roasted, toss the garlic and scallions with the vegetables on the pan.
4. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Whisk eggs, milk, cottage cheese, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
6. Assemble the egg bake by layering 3/4 of the roasted vegetables, half the spinach, and half the parmesan in the pie dish. Pour the egg mixture over, then top with the remaining vegetables, spinach, parmesan, and chives.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the center is set and edges are lightly browned.

Nutrients

• Calories: 162 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Protein: 13 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 172 mg
• Sodium: 686 mg
• Potassium: 429 mg
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Vitamin A: 1024 IU
• Vitamin C: 29 mg
• Calcium: 146 mg
• Iron: 1 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. From roasting vegetables to assembling the dish, the steps are straightforward and manageable for even novice cooks. The combination of roasted broccoli, mushrooms, and spinach offers a medley of flavors and textures, while the cottage cheese and eggs create a creamy, satisfying base. It’s also a healthy choice, packed with protein and essential vitamins, making it ideal for those on a balanced diet.

The recipe’s adaptability is another standout feature. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a light dinner option, or preparing meals for the week, this dish fits the bill. Plus, it pairs beautifully with sides like fresh salads, seasonal fruits, or a slice of hearty bread.

The Health Benefits of This Dish

This cottage cheese egg bake is not just delicious but also brimming with nutritional benefits. Let’s break it down:

• Protein Powerhouse: With eggs and cottage cheese as primary ingredients, this dish is loaded with high-quality protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
• Vegetable Goodness: Broccoli, mushrooms, and spinach bring a host of vitamins and minerals to the table. Broccoli is rich in vitamin C, calcium, and fiber, while mushrooms provide antioxidants and B vitamins. Spinach, on the other hand, is a fantastic source of iron, vitamin A, and magnesium.
• Low in Carbs: This recipe is an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or keto-friendly diet, as it has only 7 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
• Heart-Healthy Fats: The inclusion of olive oil and cottage cheese provides heart-healthy fats, which are beneficial for overall cardiovascular health.
• Micronutrient Boost: With significant amounts of potassium, calcium, and iron, this dish supports essential body functions like bone health, nerve function, and blood cell production.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Entertaining

This cottage cheese egg bake is a meal prep superstar. It’s easy to make ahead, reheats beautifully, and maintains its flavor and texture for several days. You can prepare it on a Sunday evening and enjoy it as a quick breakfast or lunch throughout the week. It’s also freezer-friendly, making it an excellent choice for batch cooking.

When entertaining guests, this dish can be a showstopper. The vibrant colors of the roasted vegetables and the golden, fluffy egg bake make it visually appealing. Serve it alongside a fresh fruit platter, a simple green salad, or even some roasted potatoes for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.

Cooking Tips and Variations

To ensure the best results and add some variety to this recipe, consider the following tips and variations:

• Customize the Vegetables: While broccoli, mushrooms, and spinach are a fantastic combination, you can switch things up with other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus.
• Add Some Heat: If you enjoy a little spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture before baking.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with other cheeses like feta, cheddar, or gruyere for a different flavor profile. You can mix and match cheeses to suit your preferences.
• Herb Infusions: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme can elevate the dish’s flavor. Sprinkle them on top after baking for a fresh and aromatic touch.
• Make It Meaty: If you’re not vegetarian, you can add cooked and crumbled sausage, diced ham, or shredded chicken for an extra layer of protein.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it accessible to those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that all additional ingredients are certified gluten-free if you’re adding variations.

Serving Suggestions

The versatility of this egg bake extends to how you can serve it. For breakfast, pair it with a cup of coffee and some fresh fruit like berries or melon slices. At brunch, serve it alongside a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette. For dinner, complement the dish with roasted potatoes or a slice of crusty bread for a hearty, satisfying meal.

For gatherings, you can cut the egg bake into small squares or wedges and serve it as an appetizer or part of a buffet spread. Its vibrant colors and rich flavor make it a standout addition to any table.

Why Cottage Cheese Is a Star Ingredient

Cottage cheese might not always be the first choice for many, but it shines in this recipe for several reasons. Its creamy texture blends seamlessly with the eggs, creating a rich and fluffy consistency. Additionally, cottage cheese is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s an excellent source of protein and calcium, low in fat, and versatile in both savory and sweet recipes. By incorporating cottage cheese, this dish remains light yet satisfying, without compromising on flavor or nutrition.

Conclusion

This easy cottage cheese egg bake is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can create a dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and health benefits make it a must-try for anyone looking to add a flavorful, protein-packed recipe to their repertoire.