Description
This Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake is a wholesome, savory dish combining creamy cottage cheese, fresh mixed vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. It’s a nutritious and comforting meal perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner that brings together sautéed veggies and cheesy goodness in a simple, easy-to-make casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
Dairy and Eggs
- 16 ounces cottage cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli), chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Others
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or panko (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix cheese and eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, eggs, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and smooth.
- Prepare vegetables: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped mixed vegetables and finely chopped onion, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Sauté vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still retain some firmness.
- Layer vegetables: Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly across the base of a baking dish to create a flavorful vegetable layer.
- Add cheese mixture: Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the vegetable layer, spreading it evenly to cover all the vegetables.
- Top with cheese and breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by breadcrumbs or panko if using, to achieve a crispy golden topping.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the top turns golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Allow the bake to cool for about 5 minutes before serving warm to let the flavors settle and the bake firm up slightly.
Notes
- You can substitute mixed vegetables with your choice such as spinach, mushrooms, or carrots.
- For a gluten-free option, omit breadcrumbs or use gluten-free panko.
- Use low-fat cottage cheese if you desire a lighter bake.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving for added freshness.
