High-Protein Cottage Cheese Veggie Bake
This High-Protein Cottage Cheese Veggie Bake is a simple, nutritious, and protein-packed meal combining creamy cottage cheese with sautéed fresh vegetables and a melty cheddar cheese topping. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it offers a wholesome, flavorful, and customizable dish that satisfies hunger and supports healthy eating.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, tomatoes; fresh or frozen)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or thyme), chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic and chopped onions until fragrant, then add the vegetables. Cook until they soften slightly to enhance flavor and even baking.
- Mix the Cottage Cheese and Eggs: While the vegetables cool, whisk together the cottage cheese and eggs in a mixing bowl until smooth, creating a creamy, protein-rich base that helps bind the bake.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold the sautéed vegetables into the cottage cheese and egg mixture along with fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to evenly distribute ingredients without breaking the vegetables.
- Assemble and Bake: Grease a baking dish and pour in the mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden and the bake is set in the middle.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bake to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the bake firm up for cleaner, easier serving.
Notes
- Drain excess liquid from cottage cheese for a firmer bake if preferred.
- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best taste and texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when sautéing to ensure vegetables soften evenly.
- Let the bake rest after cooking to help proteins set and improve slice neatness.
- Consider adding crunchy toppings like breadcrumbs or nuts for added texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: cottage cheese bake, high protein, vegetable bake, healthy dinner, gluten free, protein rich, easy recipe