Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs: A Comforting Breakfast Tradition
Introduction
Start your day with Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs—a wholesome, protein-packed dish that is as satisfying as it is delicious. This comforting recipe combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the richness of eggs, creating a fluffy and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that will delight your taste buds.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Egg-based dishes have long been a staple of breakfast traditions worldwide. In many cultures, eggs symbolize nourishment and vitality. Adding cottage cheese to this classic breakfast food brings a unique texture and flavor, elevating it to a heartier, more indulgent dish. Baked egg recipes like this one have their roots in home cooking, where simplicity and flavor come together to create a memorable meal.
Ingredients Quantity
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil, for greasing
Optional Additions
- Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Protein Boost: Incorporate cooked bacon, ham, or smoked salmon.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Cheese Variations: Replace mozzarella with cheddar, feta, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
Tips for Success
- Whisk Well: Beating the eggs thoroughly ensures a uniform mixture.
- Grease Generously: Use enough cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove the dish once the eggs are just set to avoid dryness.
- Cool Before Slicing: Allow the dish to cool slightly for easier serving.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil and set it aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk until well beaten. Add the cottage cheese, mozzarella, chives, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Pour and Spread: Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish cool slightly. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Description
This dish delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The cottage cheese melts into the eggs, creating a creamy, custard-like consistency, while the mozzarella adds a hint of gooey richness. Fresh herbs like chives and parsley brighten the dish, and the smoked paprika adds a subtle depth of flavor. The result is a perfectly baked, golden-topped egg dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 150-180
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
Conclusion and Recommendation
Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs are a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Serve them alongside whole-grain toast, fresh fruit, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, opt for low-fat cottage cheese and reduce the mozzarella. You can also incorporate more vegetables or use egg whites for a leaner alternative.
Enjoy this comforting, nutritious dish with your family or friends, and let its simple yet elegant flavors brighten your mornings.