If you’re craving a breakfast that’s warm, nourishing, and packed with protein, Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs are the answer.
This dish blends fluffy baked eggs with the creamy richness of cottage cheese and just the right amount of melty cheddar, making every bite hearty yet light.
It’s simple enough for busy mornings but also versatile enough to serve at a cozy brunch gathering.
With minimal prep and pantry-staple ingredients, it’s a recipe that checks all the boxes—easy, filling, and oh-so-delicious.
My Opinion
Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of why it’s become one of my go-to breakfasts.
The cottage cheese melts into the eggs, creating a creamy texture that makes the bake feel indulgent without being heavy.
I’ve tried it both plain and with add-ins like spinach, tomatoes, and even crispy bacon, and honestly, it works beautifully every way.
What I love most is the balance—nutritious and wholesome, but still comforting like a classic egg casserole.
It’s the kind of meal that feels homemade and thoughtful, yet it only takes minutes to put together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Protein-Packed – Keeps you full and energized for hours.
- Quick & Easy – Just 10 minutes of prep before the oven does the rest.
- Versatile – Add veggies, herbs, or meats to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly – A dish that appeals to both adults and kids.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores and reheats beautifully for busy mornings.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional add-ins: spinach, tomatoes, onions, fresh herbs, cooked bacon or sausage
Ingredient Notes
- Cottage Cheese – Use full-fat for a creamier texture or low-fat for a lighter version.
- Cheddar Cheese – Swap with mozzarella for mild flavor or feta for a tangy kick.
- Milk – Adds extra moisture; whole milk works best but any type will do.
- Optional Add-Ins – Great way to use up leftover veggies or add more nutrition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is important because it ensures the eggs start cooking immediately once placed inside, giving the dish an even, fluffy texture.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter, olive oil, or a spritz of cooking spray. This prevents sticking, makes cleanup easier, and also helps the edges of the bake develop a nice golden color.
3. Whisk the Base Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, crack 6 eggs and whisk them until the yolks and whites are fully combined. This creates a smooth and uniform texture for the bake. Next, add in 1 cup of cottage cheese, 1/4 cup of milk, 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Continue whisking until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should look slightly lumpy from the cottage cheese but evenly blended overall.
💡 Tip: Use a hand whisk instead of a fork to get more air into the eggs, which helps make the final bake light and fluffy.
4. Add Optional Ingredients
Now’s the time to customize! Fold in optional add-ins like chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, cooked bacon, onions, or fresh herbs. Be careful not to overload the mixture—about 1/2 to 1 cup of add-ins is plenty. This keeps the texture balanced and prevents the bake from becoming too watery.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the egg mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan so that it bakes consistently. Give the dish a little tap on the counter to release any large air bubbles.
6. Bake Until Set
Place the dish on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set. You’ll know it’s done when:
- The edges are golden and slightly puffed.
- The center no longer jiggles when you gently shake the dish.
- A knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.
💡 Tip: Avoid opening the oven door too often during baking—it can cause the temperature to drop and make the eggs cook unevenly.
7. Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes. This resting period allows the eggs to firm up, making it easier to cut into neat squares or slices. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:
- Toasted whole-grain bread or garlic toast.
- Fresh fruit like strawberries, melon, or grapes.
- A light side salad for a complete brunch spread.
- A sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs on top right before serving.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave for a quicker option.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Variations
- Vegetarian – Skip meat add-ins and load up on veggies.
- Mediterranean Twist – Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta.
- Spicy Kick – Stir in jalapeños or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Cheese Lovers – Use a mix of cheeses like gouda, parmesan, or pepper jack.
Tips for Success
- Use full-fat cottage cheese for richer flavor and texture.
- Add extra seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika for more depth.
- Slice into squares and pack in containers for easy meal prep breakfasts.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, it works just fine and still provides great flavor and texture.
Can I make this gluten-free?
The base recipe is naturally gluten-free—just make sure add-ins are safe.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze portions in an airtight container for up to a month.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger baking dish and extend the baking time by 5–10 minutes.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fat: 12g
Conclusion
Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs are the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. They’re comforting yet healthy, versatile yet simple, and perfect for both busy mornings and relaxed weekend brunches. Whether you enjoy them plain or jazzed up with your favorite add-ins, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at the table.