Description
This Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake is a delicious, nutrient-packed casserole featuring a savory blend of cottage cheese, fresh mixed vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese. Lightly sautéed veggies create a tender base beneath a creamy cheese mixture, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a wholesome breakfast or easy dinner, this bake combines protein and veggies in a comforting, cheesy casserole.
Ingredients
Dairy and Eggs
- 16 ounces cottage cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli), chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Other
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or panko (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, eggs, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until fully combined to create the creamy base.
- Prepare Vegetables: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, and finely chopped onion.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and onion, and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked, enhancing their flavor and texture.
- Assemble Bake: Evenly distribute the sautéed vegetables in the base of a baking dish, creating a flavorful vegetable layer.
- Add Cheese Mixture: Pour the cottage cheese and egg mixture over the vegetables and spread it evenly to coat everything beneath.
- Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then add breadcrumbs or panko, if using, for a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bake cool for 5 minutes before serving warm, allowing it to set slightly for easier slicing.
Notes
- You can substitute mixed vegetables with any seasonal favorites such as spinach, mushrooms, or carrots.
- Breadcrumbs are optional but add a nice crispy topping. For gluten-free versions, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- This bake can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking if needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.