Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This High-Protein Cottage Cheese Veggie Bake is a nutritious powerhouse packed with protein and fiber. Cottage cheese serves as the base, providing a creamy texture and a good amount of protein, while the assortment of vegetables adds flavor, color, and nutrients. The bake is hearty and filling, yet light enough to enjoy as a main or a side dish. It’s also customizable—use your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and makes for great leftovers.

Ingredients

2 cups cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat, depending on preference)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or your preferred cheese)
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing or sautéing vegetables)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish with olive oil.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add the zucchini and spinach to the skillet, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften and the spinach wilts. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir in the beaten eggs until everything is well mixed.
Add the sautéed vegetable mixture to the cottage cheese mixture and stir to combine.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. If desired, sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs for added texture and crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra veggies if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 people
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or cauliflower. These will all complement the flavors of the dish and boost its nutritional value.
Use Different Cheese: You can swap out the mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, or feta for different flavors.
Add Protein: To make this dish even more protein-packed, add cooked chicken, turkey.
Spicy Version: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture to give the bake a bit of heat.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cottage cheese, dairy-free cheese, and eggs substitutes like flax eggs for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover High-Protein Cottage Cheese Veggie Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the bake in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

This dish also freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this bake ahead of time. Assemble the entire dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I use non-dairy cottage cheese?

Yes, there are several non-dairy cottage cheese alternatives available that work perfectly in this recipe, such as those made from soy, almond, or coconut milk.

How do I prevent the bake from being too watery?

To prevent excess moisture, make sure to sauté the vegetables and cook off any excess water before adding them to the cottage cheese mixture. Also, draining the cottage cheese before use can help reduce extra liquid.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes, you can easily add cooked chicken, turkey, or beef to the bake for an extra source of protein. Simply stir it into the vegetable mixture before adding it to the cottage cheese mixture.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs (or omit them entirely). Double-check that all other ingredients, such as the cottage cheese, are gluten-free.

Can I make this bake without eggs?

Yes, you can use an egg substitute like flax eggs, chia seeds mixed with water, or a commercial egg replacer to make this recipe egg-free.

What can I serve this bake with?

This veggie bake is delicious on its own or paired with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a full meal. You could also serve it with some whole-grain toast or a side of quinoa for added texture.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works fine in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before using it in the filling.

How do I know when the bake is done?

The bake is done when the top is golden brown, the sides are bubbly, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The eggs will set, and the cheese will melt, giving the casserole a firm texture.

How can I make this bake spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chopped fresh chili peppers to the veggie mixture for some extra heat.

Conclusion

The High-Protein Cottage Cheese Veggie Bake is the perfect balance of healthy, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed meal, a filling lunch, or a side dish to complement dinner, this bake is versatile and easy to make. The creamy cottage cheese mixed with sautéed vegetables creates a deliciously hearty and nutritious dish that will leave you feeling full and nourished. With plenty of room for customization, it’s a dish you can enjoy in countless ways!