Description
Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs
Ingredients:
6 large eggs
1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup chopped chives
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Beat eggs, then mix in cottage cheese and cheddar.
Season with salt and pepper, stirring evenly.
Pour into a baking dish and top with chives.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.
Let it cool slightly before serving.
#ProteinRichEggs #CottageCheeseMagic #GoldenBites
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect baked cottage cheese eggs every time.
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures consistent cooking. Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, crack and beat the 6 large eggs until the yolks and whites are fully incorporated and slightly frothy.
- Add Cheeses: To the beaten eggs, add the full cup of cottage cheese and the 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar. Use a spatula to fold and mix until the cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the eggs.
- Season: Sprinkle in the 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure seasoning is even.
- Transfer and Top: Pour the egg and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of chopped chives evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. The dish is done when the edges are pulling away from the dish, the center is set, and the top is a light golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the dish for 5-10 minutes. This allows the eggs to finish setting and makes for cleaner slices.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve a warm slice alongside toasted whole-grain bread and fresh avocado for a hearty breakfast. For a light lunch, pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. It also makes an excellent high-protein addition to a brunch buffet. Top individual servings with a dollop of salsa, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
How-to Summary
Beat eggs, mix with cottage cheese, cheddar, salt, and pepper. Pour into a greased dish, top with chives, and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and set. Let cool briefly before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely. You can assemble the mixture in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time if needed.
What cottage cheese fat percentage works best? Any fat percentage (non-fat, low-fat, or full-fat) will work. Full-fat cottage cheese will yield a richer, creamier texture, while low-fat versions keep it lighter.
Can I add other ingredients? Yes! This recipe is a great base. Consider adding sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, cooked crumbled sausage, or sun-dried tomatoes. Just ensure any add-ins are not too watery.
Why did my eggs turn out watery? Wateriness usually comes from the cottage cheese. Draining it in a fine-mesh strainer for 10-15 minutes before mixing can help. Also, avoid overbaking, as this can cause the proteins to tighten and squeeze out moisture.
How should I store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or a warm oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Preheating the Oven: Putting the dish into a cold oven leads to uneven cooking and a longer bake time.
- Overmixing the Eggs: Beat just until combined. Over-beating can incorporate too much air, leading to a puffy, then deflated, texture.
- Using a Cold Dish: Pouring the mixture into a cold, greased dish from the cupboard can slow initial cooking. Using a dish at room temperature is best.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into the bake immediately will cause it to fall apart. Letting it rest allows the structure to firm up.
Conclusion
This Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs recipe is a simple, protein-packed solution for any meal. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll achieve a deliciously golden, fluffy, and satisfying dish every time. Its customizability and make-ahead potential make it a reliable staple for busy mornings or entertaining. Enjoy the magic of combining simple ingredients for a truly rewarding result.
