The High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese is a perfect combination of healthy, flavorful ingredients and simple preparation. This versatile dish is packed with protein from cottage cheese and eggs, while fresh vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and a satisfying texture. It works beautifully as a breakfast, lunch, dinner, or meal prep option, making it ideal for anyone looking to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy cottage cheese and melted mozzarella create a rich, cohesive base that holds the vegetables together while adding a delicate flavor, and the seasoning ensures every bite is balanced and satisfying.
Ingredients
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
1 cup bell pepper, diced
1 cup zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup spinach, chopped
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 eggs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Cooking spray or a small amount of additional olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Preparation Method
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or similar-sized baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. Wash and prepare all the vegetables as indicated in the ingredients list. Broccoli should be chopped into bite-sized florets, bell peppers diced, zucchini sliced, cherry tomatoes halved, spinach chopped, and red onion finely diced.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and eggs, whisking until smooth. Add the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano, mixing thoroughly so the seasonings are evenly distributed. Gently fold in all the chopped vegetables and shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring a uniform mixture so each portion contains a balance of vegetables and cheese.
Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is lightly golden. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bake is ready. Allow it to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape. Serve warm as a standalone dish or with a fresh salad or whole-grain bread on the side.
Tips for Perfect Results
For enhanced flavor, sauté the red onions, bell peppers, and zucchini in olive oil for 3–4 minutes before adding them to the mixture. To lower carbs, you can reduce the amount of zucchini or omit the cherry tomatoes. Both full-fat and low-fat cottage cheese work well depending on your dietary preference. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a flavor variation. For a crispier top, sprinkle an additional 1–2 tablespoons of shredded cheese over the mixture before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this bake ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh the next day for the best texture.
Can I freeze this veggie bake? Yes. After baking and cooling completely, cut it into portions and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely. Make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess water in the bake.
How can I make it spicier? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture for subtle heat.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep. Portion into individual containers and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Can I add extra protein? You can add cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu cubes to increase the protein content.
Print
High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese: A Nutritious and Delicious Meal
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A high-protein, veggie-packed casserole featuring cottage cheese, fresh vegetables, and a light mozzarella topping. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Cooking spray or a small amount of additional olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cottage cheese, eggs, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and oregano.
- Add all the vegetables and stir until evenly coated.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until eggs are set and cheese is golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use fresh vegetables for best flavor, but frozen works as well.
- Add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.
- Can be prepared ahead and reheated for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
The High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese is a versatile, nutritious, and flavorful dish that is simple to prepare and satisfying to eat. The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy cottage cheese, eggs, and melted mozzarella provides a perfect balance of texture and taste. This bake is ideal for anyone seeking a high-protein, healthy meal that can easily fit into a busy lifestyle or be prepared in advance. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it’s a reliable and delicious option for a balanced diet that everyone will enjoy.
