The High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is your ultimate healthy comfort dish — simple, satisfying, and incredibly nourishing. It’s a one-dish wonder that combines creamy cottage cheese, fluffy eggs, and a medley of fresh vegetables baked into a golden, protein-rich meal. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this dish delivers flavor and nutrition in every bite. The texture is light yet hearty, with a mild cheesiness that pairs beautifully with herbs and veggies. What makes this recipe stand out is its high protein content from both the eggs and cottage cheese, keeping you full and energized for hours. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or feeding your family, this wholesome bake is a must-try that never disappoints.
Full Recipe
Ingredients
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6 large eggs
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1 cup (250 g) cottage cheese
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½ cup (120 ml) milk
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1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 small zucchini, grated and drained
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2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach, chopped
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
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Butter or oil for greasing the baking dish
Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Vegetables: Wash, chop, and prepare all your vegetables. Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel to prevent the bake from becoming watery. Chop the spinach, onion, and bell pepper finely.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add the zucchini and spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
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Mix the Egg Base: In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk until smooth. Add the milk, cottage cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried basil. Whisk well to combine everything into a creamy, frothy mixture.
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Add Cheese and Vegetables: Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, followed by the sautéed vegetables. Mix everything evenly so the flavors distribute beautifully throughout.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Pour and Bake: Pour the egg mixture into the prepared dish. Smooth the top using a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set. You can test it by inserting a knife — it should come out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the egg bake to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with fresh herbs, avocado slices, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Nutrients
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Calories: 220 kcal per serving
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Protein: 21 g
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Carbohydrates: 6 g
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Fat: 12 g
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Fiber: 1 g
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Calcium: 220 mg
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Iron: 7% of daily value
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Vitamin A: 25% of daily value
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake because it’s the perfect mix of nutritious and delicious. It’s easy to make, high in protein, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or high-protein diet, this dish fits right in. It’s also ideal for meal prep — you can bake it once and enjoy it for days. The texture is creamy yet firm, the flavor savory and comforting, and the ingredients clean and wholesome. Plus, it’s one of those rare healthy recipes that feels indulgent, like you’re eating something far richer than it really is.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
This recipe takes inspiration from traditional breakfast casseroles and frittatas, but with a healthier twist. By incorporating cottage cheese, it boosts the protein content and creates a lighter, creamier texture. Cottage cheese has long been a favorite in European and American kitchens for its versatility in both savory and sweet dishes. Pairing it with eggs and vegetables turns it into a modern protein-packed meal that aligns perfectly with today’s focus on clean eating and fitness-friendly cooking.
Ingredient Spotlight
Cottage Cheese: The star ingredient, packed with casein protein and calcium, adds creaminess and richness without heavy fat.
Eggs: A natural source of complete protein and healthy fats, eggs create structure and volume in the bake.
Mozzarella & Parmesan: These cheeses provide a melty texture and enhance the flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Vegetables: Spinach, zucchini, and bell pepper add vitamins, color, and freshness while keeping the dish light.
Herbs & Spices: Garlic powder and basil infuse aroma and elevate the overall taste, making it restaurant-worthy with minimal effort.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This dish is a dream for meal preppers! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 8 minutes. To keep the texture perfect, avoid overcooking during reheating. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months — just thaw overnight in the fridge before warming. It’s one of those rare dishes that tastes just as good (or even better) the next day.
Common Variations to Try
The fun part about this bake is that it’s endlessly customizable. Add cooked bacon, turkey, or sausage for extra protein and a smoky touch. Swap out vegetables based on the season — mushrooms, kale, or asparagus all work beautifully. If you love spice, add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped jalapeño. For a Mediterranean flair, toss in olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese. Vegetarians can enjoy it as-is, while meat lovers can make it heartier with a few easy additions.
Pairing Recommendations
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light side salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice. It also complements roasted sweet potatoes or a slice of whole-grain toast for a more filling meal. For drinks, try fresh orange juice, black coffee, or green tea to balance the richness. If serving for brunch, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or cucumber adds a refreshing touch.
Health Benefits
The High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake isn’t just tasty — it’s packed with nutrition. The combination of eggs and cottage cheese provides high-quality protein that supports muscle repair, metabolism, and satiety. Cottage cheese is rich in calcium for bone health, while eggs supply choline, which is essential for brain function. The added vegetables boost fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C, supporting immune health and digestion. It’s also low in carbs, making it suitable for weight management and diabetic-friendly diets.
Conclusion
This High-Protein Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is more than just a recipe — it’s a lifestyle meal. It’s quick to make, easy to store, and keeps you full and energized. The creamy texture from the cottage cheese, the richness of eggs, and the freshness of the vegetables create a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you enjoy it hot from the oven or as a grab-and-go breakfast, it’s a dish that delivers both comfort and nutrition. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep it on repeat — because healthy food should always taste this good!