Looking for an easy, delicious, and versatile dish to kickstart your day? This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole is exactly what you need! With the creaminess of cottage cheese and the sharpness of cheddar cheese, this casserole is packed with flavor and protein, making it a hearty breakfast or brunch option. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal effort, and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins, making it a great choice for busy mornings or weekend gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole is perfect for those who love savory breakfasts. The combination of eggs and cottage cheese gives it a rich, creamy texture while the cheddar cheese adds a delightful sharpness. The added seasonings of garlic powder and onion powder bring a burst of flavor to every bite. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd or making a batch for easy meal prep, this casserole is incredibly satisfying. Plus, you can easily swap in different ingredients like vegetables or meats to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
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8 large eggs
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1 cup cottage cheese (full fat or 2% for best flavor)
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1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup milk (optional, for extra fluffiness)
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Optional: chopped spinach, cooked bacon, diced peppers, green onions
Tip: You can find a list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick. -
Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, milk (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure everything is well combined to create a smooth mixture. -
Bake the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Bake the casserole uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and the top is golden and slightly puffed. -
Serve
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing. You can serve it warm for a delicious breakfast or chill it for an easy grab-and-go meal later.
Variations
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Cheese Variations: Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese depending on your preference.
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Add Protein: Stir in chopped cooked bacon, sausage, or even diced ham for an extra protein boost.
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Veggies: Add in some chopped spinach, kale, roasted veggies, or peppers for a healthy, colorful twist.
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Lower-Fat Version: If you’re looking for a lighter option, use egg whites only or opt for reduced-fat cottage cheese and cheese.
Heating/Storage
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Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh.
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Reheating: To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
10 FAQ
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it the next morning when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can swap the cheddar for any cheese you like—Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack all work well.
3. How can I make this casserole more filling?
Add some cooked sausage or bacon to the mixture for extra protein. You can also add potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier dish.
4. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and dairy-free cottage cheese to make it dairy-free. Just substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to eat.
6. Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?
Yes, you can use egg whites to make this recipe lower in fat and calories. Just make sure to use about 8 egg whites in place of the 8 eggs.
7. How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the egg mixture for an extra kick.
8. Can I use a larger baking dish?
If you’re using a larger baking dish, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Just keep an eye on it and make sure the center is set and the top is golden.
9. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this casserole in a slow cooker. Just spray the slow cooker insert with cooking spray, add the mixture, and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the center is set.
10. Can I make this casserole with only egg yolks?
While it’s possible to use only egg yolks, it will change the texture, making the casserole richer and more custard-like. For the best texture, we recommend using whole eggs.
Conclusion
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole is a simple yet delicious dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With its rich flavors from the cheese and the savory seasonings, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. Customize it with your favorite mix-ins, and you’ve got a versatile recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep. Try this easy-to-make, satisfying casserole today—it’s a dish you’ll come back to time and time again!
Print
Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
SEO Description: Start your day with this Cottage Cheese Egg Bake Casserole! Packed with protein, creamy cottage cheese, sharp cheddar, and flavorful seasonings, this easy-to-make breakfast or brunch dish can be customized with veggies, meats, or different cheeses. Perfect for busy mornings or meal prep!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
8 large eggs
1 cup cottage cheese (full fat or 2% for best flavor)
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup milk (optional, for extra fluffiness)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Optional: chopped spinach, cooked bacon, diced peppers, green onions
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
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Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, milk (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
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Bake the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.
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Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Slice into squares and enjoy
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for a new flavor twist.
- Add Protein: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or diced ham for an extra protein boost.
- Veggies: Add in spinach, kale, peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Lower-Fat Version: Use egg whites or reduced-fat cottage cheese for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: casserole
- Cuisine: American