Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs: A Delicious and Nutritious Breakfast
Looking for a hearty, nutritious, and incredibly easy breakfast recipe? Look no further than Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs. This dish combines the creamy goodness of cottage cheese with the rich flavors of sharp cheddar cheese and eggs, creating a perfect start to your day. It’s not only delicious but also packed with protein to keep you energized all morning. Follow this simple recipe and enjoy a breakfast that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- Eggs: 6 large
- Cottage Cheese: 2 cups (about 450 grams)
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: grated, 1 cup
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensuring your oven is preheated will help the dish cook evenly and achieve the perfect texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of butter. This will prevent the eggs and cheese from sticking to the dish and make for easy cleanup.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 6 large eggs, 2 cups of cottage cheese, and 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until all the ingredients are well blended. The mixture should be evenly distributed with no large lumps.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper to the egg and cheese mixture to taste. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor.
Step 5: Pour into Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. To check if the eggs are done, insert a knife into the center of the dish. If it comes out clean, the eggs are cooked through.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with toast, a fresh salad, or even a side of fruit.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs
Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor and texture, use fresh eggs and high-quality cheeses. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in the taste of your dish.
Customize Your Dish
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes. You can add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the egg mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Cooked bacon or ham also makes a great addition for those who enjoy a heartier breakfast.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Make It Ahead
If you have a busy morning, you can prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply pour it into the baking dish and bake as directed.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat or even fat-free cottage cheese if you prefer. However, the texture and flavor might be slightly different.
What other cheeses can I use?
You can experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for a unique twist. Each cheese will bring its own flavor profile to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. Just ensure that any added ingredients like cheeses are also suitable for vegetarians.
Can I freeze Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. After baking