If you’re looking for a comforting, protein-packed breakfast or brunch option that’s bursting with flavor and vibrant colors, look no further than this delightful Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Cheddar, Bell Peppers, and Green Onions Recipe. This dish perfectly balances creamy cottage cheese with sharp cheddar, alongside the fresh, crisp textures of bell peppers and green onions, making every bite a delicious celebration of taste and nutrition. It’s a straightforward recipe that brings wholesome ingredients together to create a warm, hearty bake that’s sure to become your new favorite go-to meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet crucial for creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in your cottage cheese egg bake. Each one adds something unique, from the richness of the eggs to the little bursts of freshness from the peppers and onions.
- 2 cups cottage cheese: Creamy and high in protein, it gives the bake a moist, tender texture.
- 6 large eggs: The foundation of the bake, binding all ingredients together with a fluffy richness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it adds a golden cheesy layer that complements the cottage cheese.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the mixture, making it smooth and easier to bake evenly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle depth of savory flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the aromatic profile without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle spicy kick to keep things interesting.
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions: Brings a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of green color.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps keep the bake moist and adds a slight richness.
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper: Adds sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color to brighten up the dish.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Cheddar, Bell Peppers, and Green Onions Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light coating of olive oil. This step is key to preventing sticking and making cleanup easier later on.
Step 2: Beat the Eggs
Crack six large eggs into a large mixing bowl. Using a whisk or fork, beat them until the yolks and whites become one smooth, pale yellow mixture. This ensures a fluffy and uniform bake.
Step 3: Combine Cottage Cheese and Seasonings
Add the cottage cheese directly into the eggs and stir gently until fully mixed. Then pour in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and evenly combined, creating a flavorful and rich base for the bake.
Step 4: Fold in Cheddar, Bell Peppers, and Green Onions
Next, sprinkle in your shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bell peppers. Mix them evenly into the mixture so that every slice will have a melty, cheesy burst paired with the crunch of bell peppers. Finally, fold in the chopped green onions carefully to keep their fresh texture intact.
Step 5: Add Olive Oil and Pour the Mixture
Drizzle the tablespoon of olive oil over the mixture and stir once more to incorporate it evenly. Then pour everything into your prepared baking dish, making sure to spread the mixture out evenly with a spatula or spoon for consistent baking.
Step 6: Bake Until Set
Place the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye out for the edges to turn a lovely light brown and for the center to set firmly. You can check by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cottage cheese egg bake is perfectly baked and ready!
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Cheddar, Bell Peppers, and Green Onions Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving experience, top each slice with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A dollop of sour cream or a light drizzle of hot sauce can add wonderful contrasts in flavor, perfect for those craving an extra zing or creaminess.
Side Dishes
Serve this bake alongside a crisp green salad or roasted cherry tomatoes for a balanced meal. Fresh fruit or a warm slice of crusty bread also pairs beautifully, turning this straightforward bake into a full and satisfying brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try slicing the bake into smaller squares and using them as savory breakfast sliders with mini buns and a slice of avocado. You could even customize each portion by adding different fresh toppings or sides to keep every serving exciting and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover cottage cheese egg bake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks during busy mornings or lazy weekends.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, cut the bake into portions and freeze them in individual airtight containers or zip-top freezer bags. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, retaining most of their texture and flavor after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your slices gently in the microwave or oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Adding a small splash of milk before microwaving helps preserve moisture and keeps the bake from drying out.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cottage cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, but keep in mind that cottage cheese provides a unique moisture and texture that’s hard to replicate. Ricotta is a decent alternative, but it might make the bake slightly creamier and less firm.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s an excellent option for meal prep because you can make it ahead of time, store it safely, and reheat it throughout the week while maintaining great taste and texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this egg bake?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the recipe for an extra veggie boost. Just be mindful not to add too much moisture-heavy produce as it could affect the bake’s consistency.
What if I don’t have cheddar cheese on hand?
Cheddar adds a sharp, melty goodness, but you can swap it for other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mild Colby. Each will lend a slightly different flavor profile but remain delicious.
How do I know when the egg bake is fully cooked?
The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean without wet batter clinging to it, your bake is done. Also, it should feel firm to the touch and have a lightly golden edge.
Final Thoughts
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Cheddar, Bell Peppers, and Green Onions Recipe is truly a gem of a dish that’s simple to prepare but full of layers of flavor and vibrant colors. It’s a perfect way to start your day or impress your brunch guests with minimal effort but maximum deliciousness. I urge you to give this recipe a try—it might just become a staple in your kitchen as it has in mine!
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Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Cheddar, Bell Peppers, and Green Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 45m
- Total Time: 1h 0m
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a delicious and protein-packed breakfast or brunch dish combining creamy cottage cheese, eggs, cheddar cheese, and fresh vegetables. Baked to perfection, it offers a savory, satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and flavorful, perfect for family gatherings or a wholesome start to your day.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables & Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure an even baking temperature for the egg bake.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote easy serving.
- Beat Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, crack the six eggs and beat thoroughly using a whisk or fork until yolks and whites are fully blended.
- Add Cottage Cheese: Incorporate the cottage cheese into the beaten eggs, stirring until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Mix in Seasonings and Milk: Pour in the milk, then add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a consistent mixture.
- Combine Cheese and Vegetables: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bell pepper, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Add Green Onions: Gently mix in the chopped green onions to maintain their texture and flavor.
- Incorporate Olive Oil: Drizzle the tablespoon of olive oil over the mixture and stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the prepared egg mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula or spoon.
- Bake: Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is set and edges begin to lightly brown.
- Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the bake; if it comes out clean, the dish is ready.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- Use whole milk or 2% milk for a creamier texture; skim milk can be used for a lighter version.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- Add other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes to increase nutritional value and flavor.
- Ensure the bake cools slightly before serving to allow it to set properly and be easier to slice.
- For a lower sodium option, reduce the salt or use low-sodium cottage cheese.
