Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs are a simple and healthy dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. With fluffy eggs and creamy cottage cheese, they bring a yummy twist to your morning routine.
I love how quick and easy this dish is to whip up! Just mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl that fills you up nicely. Who doesn’t want that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star ingredient that adds creaminess. If you’re a fan of a thicker texture, opt for a small-curd cottage cheese. For dairy-free options, you might use silken tofu blended until smooth.
Eggs: Large eggs are recommended for the perfect balance with cottage cheese. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use egg whites or even a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a vegan alternative.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients. If fresh isn’t available, frozen spinach works too! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in your dish.
Green Onions: These provide a mild onion flavor. You can substitute with chives or shallots if you prefer something different. Don’t skip on garnish—the extra green gives a fresh look!
Smoked Paprika: It gives a lovely, smoky touch. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can work, or even a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat.
How Do I Ensure My Eggs Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking eggs just right can be tricky, especially if you like them runny. Here’s how to nail it:
- Keep a close eye on your baking time! Start checking at 15 minutes for that perfect set.
- If you prefer runny yolks, they should jiggle slightly when you take the dish out. For firmer yolks, give it a few extra minutes.
- Using ramekins can help with quicker and even cooking if you prefer individual servings.
Remember, it’s okay to experiment a bit with your oven’s temperature, as all ovens can behave differently!
How to Make Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 4 large eggs
Fresh Additions:
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Seasonings:
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
For Greasing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 to 20 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be indulging in this creamy, protein-packed meal in about 30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is key to ensure everything cooks evenly!
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a baking dish or individual ramekins and lightly grease them with olive oil or butter. This helps prevent sticking and cleans up easier later!
3. Mix the Cottage Cheese Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, chopped spinach, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
4. Spread the Mixture:
Transfer the cottage cheese mixture to your greased dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite is delicious.
5. Add the Eggs:
Carefully crack the eggs on top of the cottage cheese mixture. Make sure to space them out evenly for nice cooking results. The egg yolks nestled in the cottage cheese will give a rich flavor.
6. Sprinkle with Smoked Paprika:
Sprinkle a little smoked paprika over the top for a beautiful color and a hint of smoky flavor. It adds a nice touch!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the egg whites should be set but the yolks can be left runny if you like them that way. For firmer yolks, bake a few extra minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once you take the dish out, sprinkle some extra chopped green onions on top for a fresh finish. Serve your baked cottage cheese eggs warm and enjoy them with toast or your favorite side!
Enjoy the creamy, rich goodness of your baked cottage cheese eggs with fresh greens! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese works just fine in this recipe. It will still provide creaminess while reducing calories. Just remember, the taste and texture may be slightly different compared to full-fat cottage cheese.
How Can I Customize the Vegetables?
Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions. Just make sure to chop them finely and sauté them first to remove excess moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cottage cheese mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly! When ready to bake, add the eggs on top right before placing it in the oven.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven, keeping in mind that eggs might continue to cook when reheated.
