Loaded Cottage Cheese Potato Bake
This loaded potato bake is a lighter, high-protein twist on the classic comfort food. Made with fluffy potatoes, creamy cottage cheese, and loaded with crispy bacon, cheddar, and green onions, it’s perfect as a hearty side dish or even a main meal.
Total time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
4–5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and diced
1 1/2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/4 cup milk (any kind)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt & pepper to taste
1/3 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4 slices)
1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
Optional toppings: more bacon, green onions, hot sauce, or jalapenos
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9″ or similar baking dish.
2. Cook Potatoes:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add diced potatoes and cook until fork-tender (about 10–12 minutes). Drain well.
3. Mash and Mix:
In a large bowl, mash the potatoes with milk, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and butter (if using). Add cottage cheese, half the cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy.
4. Add the Good Stuff:
Fold in crumbled bacon and green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning.
5. Assemble:
Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and extra bacon bits if desired.
6. Bake:
Bake for 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly, and cheese on top is melted and golden.
7. Garnish & Serve:
Let cool slightly, then sprinkle with additional green onions or chives before serving.
Tips & Notes
Cottage Cheese Texture: Blend cottage cheese if you prefer a smoother texture before adding it.
Make Ahead: Assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Lighter Version: Use low-fat cottage cheese and Greek yogurt to cut calories.
Add Veggies: Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for a nutrient boost.
Meatless Option: Skip the bacon or sub with vegetarian bacon crumbles.
Nutritional Value
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 17 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 2 g
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 520 mg