Description
This Ultimate High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese is a savory, nutrient-packed casserole that combines fresh vegetables with creamy cottage cheese and a blend of cheeses for a delicious, protein-rich meal. Perfect for meal prepping, this bake is easy to make and suitable for vegetarians and those following a gluten-free diet.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Dairy & Eggs
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup egg whites
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften. Then add the zucchini and broccoli and cook for another 3 minutes. Finally, stir in the spinach and cook just until wilted.
- Mix Egg and Cheese Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg whites, low-fat cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to create a well-combined mixture.
- Combine Vegetables with Egg Mixture: Fold the sautéed vegetables gently into the egg and cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Bake the Dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing into six servings and serving warm.
Notes
- This bake is excellent for meal prep and reheats well, making it ideal for quick breakfasts or lunches throughout the week.
- Feel free to swap or add other vegetables like mushrooms or kale to suit your taste or pantry availability.
- For an extra protein boost, stir in cooked quinoa or chopped cooked turkey before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
