If you’re in search of a satisfying and nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, look no further than this High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese. This dish is the ultimate comfort food that’s packed with all the good stuff—colorful veggies, creamy cottage cheese, and protein-rich eggs make for a wholesome dinner option that can easily be enjoyed any day of the week. If you want to ensure your family gets a hearty dose of vitamins and minerals, this recipe is a fantastic way to work your way towards that goal!
This High-Protein Veggie Bake is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. The combination of various vegetables—such as zucchini, broccoli, and bell peppers—combined with cottage cheese creates a flavorful and creamy base. The addition of eggs helps bind everything together while providing a significant boost in protein content. Plus, it’s baked to golden perfection, making it both visually appealing and deliciously tempting. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to bring to a gathering, this veggie bake is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich cottage cheese.
- Simple Preparation: Quick prep time (only 15 minutes) makes it easy for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful & Satisfying: A great way to enjoy a hearty yet healthy meal.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices.
- Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for novice cooks wanting to create something delicious.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking part, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bake will cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden crust. You’ll need an oven-safe baking dish to hold your veggie mixture; a 9×9 inch square dish works wonderfully for this recipe. If you don’t have one, an equivalent-sized casserole dish will do fine too.
Gather your cutting board and knife to chop your vegetables, and opt for a mixing bowl for blending the ingredients. A whisk is handy for mixing the eggs and spices together. Don’t forget to have some cooking spray or a small amount of additional olive oil ready to grease your baking dish effectively. Keeping your workspace organized will streamline the cooking process.
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
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it allows for an even distribution of heat when you bake your dish. Next, lightly grease your baking dish using cooking spray or a bit of olive oil—this prevents your yummy bake from sticking and makes for easier cleanup!
Step 2: Mix the Veggies
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and red onion. This mixture will serve as the main body of your bake. Stir gently until the ingredients are evenly distributed, allowing the creamy cottage cheese to coat the vibrant vegetables nicely.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano. This egg mixture adds flavor and binds the vegetables together, creating a delightful texture. Make sure to whisk until it’s well combined, with no traces of separated egg whites or yolks.
Step 4: Combine and Transfer
Pour the egg mixture over the vegetable mixture, stirring well so that every piece of veg is coated. Once well combined, transfer this vibrant mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Ensure that it lays flat for even cooking throughout.
Step 5: Add the Final Touch
Now it’s time for the cheese! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of your veggie mixture. This will create a delightful, melted layer of cheesy goodness that everyone loves. Pop the baking dish into the oven and allow it to bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven but allow it to cool slightly before slicing into the bake. This resting time lets the dish firm up a bit, making it easier to serve without falling apart. When ready, slice and enjoy!
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for an extra protein boost.
- Vegetables: Swap in your favorite veggies such as kale, asparagus, or mushrooms for variations in flavor and texture.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like paprika or cumin to enhance the flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your veggies are chopped into similar sizes for even cooking.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, bake it a little longer, keeping an eye to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with quinoa or whole-grain bread for a well-rounded meal.
Tips
- Double the recipe for meal prep and enjoy it throughout the week; it keeps well in the fridge!
- Add some fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving for an aromatic finish.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses like feta or cheddar for different flavors.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free!
How long can I store leftovers?
It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep!
Can I add grains to this dish?
Indeed! Adding cooked quinoa or rice can create a heartier meal if you wish.
Conclusion
The High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and nutrition that everyone will love. This dish perfectly marries the simplicity of cooking with the delight of enjoying a colorful and healthy meal. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables and can easily be customized to suit your preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe today, leave us a comment with your thoughts, and share your variations! Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy the wholesome goodness of this High-Protein Veggie Bake!
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High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese is a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect any day of the week.
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
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish using cooking spray or a bit of olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and red onion. Stir gently until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano.
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetable mixture, stirring well to coat. Transfer to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and set.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
This dish can be customized with different vegetables or proteins as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 25 g