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This high-protein cottage cheese veggie bake is a go-to when I need something warming and wholesome that keeps everyone at the table happy and full. It layers creamy cottage cheese and tender veggies under a golden cheddar topping for a dish that works at breakfast lunch or dinner. With gluten free ingredients and a short prep time it is the kind of recipe that brings comfort without slowing you down.
I started making this bake on weekends when I wanted something nourishing but did not want to fuss with complicated steps. My family asks for it when we have extra veggies to use up and no one ever complains about eating their greens this way.
Ingredients
- Cottage cheese: provides a creamy protein rich base look for a brand with minimal additives for best taste
- Large eggs: bind everything together and add more protein choose fresh eggs for fluffiest results
- Frozen mixed veggies: give color texture and vitamins pick a mix you love if using fresh chop them evenly
- Shredded cheddar cheese: adds a gooey sharp topping buy a block and shred it yourself for best melt
- Garlic powder: brings savory depth without overpowering buy garlic powder that smells fresh and not dusty
- Onion powder: adds subtle sweetness and rounds out the flavors use a fine powdered version for even mixing
- Salt and pepper: finish and highlight the other flavors choose freshly ground pepper for a little kick
- Olive oil: keeps the bake from sticking plus brings richness use extra virgin for fullest flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish thoroughly with olive oil using your hands to get into corners. This stops sticking and makes serving easier later.
- Mix the Base:
- Whisk cottage cheese and eggs together in a large bowl until they are creamy and blended with no lumps left. This sets the foundation for the bake’s tender texture.
- Combine the Veggies and Cheeses:
- Stir in frozen mixed veggies shredded cheddar cheese garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper mixing very well so every bite will be even and flavorful.
- Fill the Pan:
- Spoon the mixture into your greased dish and use a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes up evenly and looks appealing.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Put the pan in the preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. The top should be golden brown and the center just set with a slight wobble when you shake the pan gently.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bake cool at least five minutes to firm up before slicing into squares and serving. This rest time helps the texture settle and makes for cleaner slices.
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Cheddar cheese is my favorite ingredient in this bake because of the way it melts into a bubbly golden top with pockets of gooey goodness. Watching my kids race each other for a corner piece always makes me want to make it again.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers as soon as the bake cools in a tightly sealed container. It keeps beautifully for up to four days. To reheat warm individual slices in the microwave or pop the dish back in the oven covered until heated through. Freezing is not ideal as the texture can become watery after thawing.
Ingredient Substitutions
No cottage cheese Try ricotta for a similar bake though it is a bit milder. Out of frozen veggies roast fresh ones first to reduce moisture. If cheddar is not your favorite try mozzarella or a pepper jack for a twist. You can tuck in some fresh spinach or chopped kale for more greens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot from the oven for breakfast with salsa or avocado on the side. For lunch or dinner pair with a leafy green salad or a bowl of tomato soup. It slices and packs well for meal prep or a picnic.
Cultural and Historical Context
Cottage cheese bakes like this are rooted in traditional home cooking where stretching dairy and eggs with seasonal vegetables made for an inexpensive family meal. With modern freezer mixes and year-round access to fresh produce this comfort food has only gotten more convenient and customizable over time.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables work well, but cook them first to remove any extra moisture before adding to the mixture.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store cooled squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- → How do I make the bake creamier?
For an extra creamy texture, stir in a little sour cream or Greek yogurt before baking.
- → Which cheese varieties pair well with this bake?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or feta are all tasty alternatives to try.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Make ahead and reheat portions as needed for a quick, protein-rich meal.