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This filling Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs dish turns everyday items into a high-protein morning meal that'll keep you going for hours. The mix of smooth cottage cheese and tangy cheddar works together to make a light, cheesy creation that's both warming and good for you.
I came up with this when I needed more protein in my mornings without eating meat every day. My family instantly loved how creamy it felt and how rich it tasted. Now we make it every weekend while we sip coffee and talk about our plans.
Ingredients
- Eggs: You'll need six large ones to build the foundation and pack in protein
- Cottage Cheese: Two cups makes everything creamy while boosting protein content
- Sharp Cheddar: A cup of freshly grated gives it deep flavor; try aged kinds for extra taste
- Salt and Pepper: Add to your liking; freshly ground pepper really makes a difference
- Optional Add ins: Try tossing in chopped spinach, colored peppers, mushrooms, cooked bacon, or diced ham
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Turn your oven to 375°F and wait for it to heat up completely. This temp helps the eggs cook right and melts the cheese without burning it.
- Grease the Baking Dish:
- Cover a medium baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Don't forget the corners where food likes to stick. This makes sure your finished dish comes out easily.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- Break eggs into a big bowl and beat them well. Dump in cottage cheese and grated cheddar, then stir until everything's mixed up nicely. Make sure the cottage cheese spreads out evenly.
- Season and Add Extras:
- Shake in salt and pepper how you like it. Now's when you can mix in extras like spinach, peppers, or bacon bits. Just fold them in gently without overdoing it.
- Pour and Bake:
- Dump the mixture into your greased dish, spreading it flat. Put it on the middle shelf of your hot oven and cook for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the top golden and the middle set but a little wiggly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let it sit for 5 minutes after baking. This helps it finish cooking and makes cutting easier. Slice into squares and eat while it's warm.
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I found out that using whole-fat cottage cheese instead of the lighter stuff makes everything way creamier. My grandma always told me never to cheap out on ingredients for egg dishes. The first time I brought this to a family breakfast, my cheese-crazy nephew said it beat his favorite restaurant's quiche hands down.
Storage Tips
This dish keeps well in the fridge. Just wrap leftovers in plastic or put them in a sealed container. They'll stay good up to three days in your refrigerator. When you want to warm up one portion, microwave it for 30 to 45 seconds or heat it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until it's hot through and through.
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Make-Ahead Options
This dish works great made ahead of time. You can mix up all the egg stuff the night before and keep it in a covered bowl in your fridge. Come morning, just pour it in your baking dish and cook it a few minutes longer. Or you can fully cook it ahead, cut it up, and store it for quick breakfasts throughout your week.
Serving Suggestions
Though it tastes great by itself, this egg bake goes really well with other foods too. Try it with whole-grain toast to add some carbs. A basic green salad with lemon dressing gives a nice fresh contrast to the rich eggs. For a full brunch spread, add some fresh fruit, good coffee, and maybe some crispy bacon on the side.
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't stress if you need to change things up based on diet needs or what's in your kitchen. If dairy's an issue, swap the cottage cheese for silken tofu and use a non-dairy shredded cheese instead. Want a different cheese flavor? Try feta or goat cheese rather than cheddar for a more tangy taste. You can't skip the eggs, but liquid egg substitute will work if you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I mix the ingredients ahead?
Sure! Blend everything the night before, chill it in the fridge, and bake it fresh when you're ready.
- → Which other cheeses work here?
Try swapping in mozzarella, gouda, feta, or Swiss for new and exciting flavors.
- → Can I toss in veggies or meats?
Absolutely! Add some diced peppers, mushrooms, spinach, ham, or even crispy bacon for extra yum.
- → When is it done baking?
It’s ready when the top browns nicely and a knife comes out clean after testing the center.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep extra portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before digging back in.