Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Spinach and Parmesan
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is one of those recipes that feels both wholesome and comforting at the same time. It’s light but filling, rich in protein, and packed with flavor from simple, familiar ingredients. The cottage cheese blends seamlessly into the eggs as it bakes, creating a soft, creamy texture without making the dish heavy. Spinach adds freshness and color, while Parmesan brings just enough sharpness to balance everything out.
This bake works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch. It’s easy to prepare, slices cleanly, and reheats well, which makes it ideal for meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a small group, this is a reliable, no-fuss dish that delivers every time.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6
Ingredients
Fresh spinach: 3 cups, roughly chopped
Onion: 1/2 cup finely diced yellow or green onions
Cottage cheese: 3/4 cup, 2% or full-fat
Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded or shaved
Eggs: 8 large eggs
Garlic powder: 1/4 teaspoon
Fine salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Place the chopped spinach in a bowl and gently squeeze out excess moisture.
In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk until fully combined.
Add the cottage cheese and whisk lightly to distribute evenly.
Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Fold in the diced onions and chopped spinach.
Add most of the Parmesan cheese, reserving a small amount for topping.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the surface.
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Best Results
Squeeze moisture from spinach to avoid a watery bake.
Use full-fat cottage cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
Small-curd cottage cheese blends more smoothly into eggs.
Let eggs sit at room temperature for even baking.
Don’t overwhisk, which can make the texture dense.
A ceramic or glass dish promotes gentle, even cooking.
Allow resting time so slices hold together cleanly.
Season carefully since Parmesan already adds saltiness.
Check doneness by gently shaking the dish; it should not jiggle.
Store leftovers tightly covered to keep them moist.
Variations
Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Use feta instead of Parmesan for a tangy twist.
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
Add red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Use kale instead of spinach, finely chopped.
Include cooked turkey or chicken for extra protein.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil before baking.
Make it dairy-light by reducing Parmesan slightly.
Bake in muffin tins for individual portions.
Add zucchini, grated and squeezed dry, for more vegetables.
Q & A
Does cottage cheese melt into the eggs?
Yes, it softens and blends, creating a creamy texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for preparing a day in advance.
Can I freeze this egg bake?
Yes, slice and freeze for up to 2 months.
Does it taste like cottage cheese?
No, the flavor becomes mild and neutral after baking.
How do I know it’s done?
The center should be fully set and not shiny.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and squeeze it very dry first.
Is this suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
Warm gently in the microwave or oven.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes, but too much can make it heavy.
What pairs well with this dish?
Fresh fruit, toast, or a light salad work well.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 210
Protein: 20–22g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 3–4g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: Moderate
Values may vary slightly depending on ingredients used.
Conclusion
This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Spinach and Parmesan is a simple, dependable recipe that delivers flavor, nutrition, and comfort in every bite. It’s easy enough for busy mornings but polished enough to serve at brunch. With high protein, minimal prep, and flexible variations, it’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether fresh from the oven or reheated later, it remains satisfying, balanced, and reliably delicious.