Description
This Cottage Cheese and Veggies Bake is a nutritious and delicious casserole featuring a creamy mixture of cottage cheese, fresh vegetables, and melted mozzarella baked to golden perfection. It’s a wholesome dish ideal for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner, packed with protein and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Cheese
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Binding and Seasoning
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish thoroughly with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent the casserole from sticking during baking.
- Combine Vegetables and Cheese: In a large bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, chopped spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Then stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly.
- Mix Egg and Seasoning: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined, creating a smooth mixture.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the egg and seasoning mixture into the bowl containing the cottage cheese and vegetables, stirring thoroughly to integrate all ingredients evenly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the combined mixture evenly in the prepared 9×9 inch baking dish to ensure consistent cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top turns a golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the bake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for easier slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired to add a bright, fresh touch.
- Serve: Slice the bake into portions and serve warm, enjoying this hearty and vegetable-packed dish.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.
- Feel free to use a mix of bell pepper colors for a more vibrant dish.
- This bake pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour.