If you’re on the hunt for a breakfast or brunch dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Spinach and Cheddar Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of creamy cottage cheese, fresh spinach, and sharp cheddar baked together into a fluffy, flavorful casserole that’s both comforting and nutritious. Whether it’s a weekend family breakfast or a make-ahead meal for busy mornings, this egg bake delivers hearty satisfaction with every single bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A square piece of egg casserole is being lifted on a spatula from a white baking dish placed on a white marbled surface. The casserole has three visible layers: a bottom layer of soft, light yellow egg mixed with small bits of green spinach and red bell pepper, a thin middle layer with melted white cheese spots, and a thick top layer of bright melted yellow cheese that stretches in long strings from the dish to the lifted piece. The background is softly blurred with white bricks and hints of wooden seasoning containers. A striped cloth is partially visible near the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this dish is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. Fresh veggies add brightness and nutrition, while the combination of cottage cheese and cheddar gives the bake its irresistible creaminess and sharp tang.

Cooking oil: Use grapeseed, avocado, or olive oil to gently sauté the vegetables without overpowering their flavors.

Bell pepper (1 cup, diced): Adds a sweet crunch and beautiful color, choose red, yellow, or orange for a vibrant presentation.
Yellow onion (1 cup, finely diced): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the base of the bake.
Baby spinach (3 cups, chopped): Offers a mild, fresh earthiness that pairs perfectly with the cheese.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a fragrant punch of savoriness throughout the dish.
Eggs (12 large): The essential base that creates structure and fluffy texture.
Cottage cheese (2 cups): Delivers creamy moisture and a gentle tang, making this egg bake wonderfully rich.

Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle hint of zing to brighten the overall flavor.
Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances the garlic flavor with depth and warmth.
Paprika (½ teaspoon): Brings a mild smokiness and lovely color to the egg mixture.

Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances all the flavors and brings out their best.
Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded, divided): Melts into gooey pockets of bold cheesiness, perfect for topping and folding in.
Optional garnish – sliced green onions or chives: Adds a fresh, oniony crunch for a pretty finish.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Spinach and Cheddar Recipe

Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Spinach and Cheddar Recipe - Recipe Image

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish

Start by setting your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This will ensure your egg bake doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Warm up your chosen cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and bell peppers, cooking them gently for 3 to 5 minutes until they soften and their natural sweetness is released. This creates a vibrant, flavorful base for your bake.

Step 3: Wilt Spinach and Add Garlic

Next, add the chopped baby spinach and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for just about a minute until the spinach wilts and the garlic releases its delicious fragrance. Remove the pan from heat and allow this mixture to cool slightly before moving on. This step prevents the eggs from scrambling when mixed.

Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. For an ultra-smooth, creamy texture, an immersion blender works beautifully here—just don’t overblend. This blend will set the stage for a silky, luscious bake.

Step 5: Combine and Cheese It Up

Fold in the sautéed vegetables along with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This creates layers of cheesy goodness and veggies throughout the bake that make every bite exciting.

Step 6: Bake with Care

Pour the mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top to form a golden, melty crust. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 to 30 minutes until the center is fully set and the top is beautifully browned. It’s important to let it finish uncovered so you get that delightful golden finish.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, garnish with sliced green onions or chives if you like. Let the bake rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to let it firm up and make serving easier. You’ll love how the layers hold together perfectly!

How to Serve Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Spinach and Cheddar Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh green onions or chives adds a beautiful pop of color and a sharp freshness that cuts through the richness of the egg bake. For a little extra flair, a dollop of sour cream or a light drizzle of hot sauce can bring out even more flavor.

Side Dishes

This egg bake pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance the richness. Toasted whole grain bread or a warm baguette on the side makes this meal feel complete and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your brunch guests? Serve the Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Spinach and Cheddar Recipe in individual ramekins, or cut it into neat squares and stack for a brunch buffet. You can even add diced tomatoes or a sprinkle of paprika on top for a colorful, appetizing look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your egg bake leftovers covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick breakfasts or satisfying snacks throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked casserole by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen egg bake is best enjoyed within 2 months. For easy portioning, consider freezing in individual servings.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Covering with a damp paper towel helps prevent drying out. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses can work well, offering different flavors and meltiness to suit your taste.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian since it contains no meat. Just be sure to use vegetarian-friendly cheese if that’s a concern.

Can I add other vegetables to the bake?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes to customize the bake to your liking while keeping the balance of moisture and texture in mind.

How do I make the bake extra creamy?

Using an immersion blender when mixing the eggs and cottage cheese will give a super creamy texture. Also, make sure not to overbake to keep it moist.

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?

Definitely. Just use a larger casserole dish or two dishes and adjust baking times accordingly. Keep an eye on it for doneness to avoid over or undercooking.

Final Thoughts

This Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with Spinach and Cheddar Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together wholesome ingredients with a comforting, cheesy twist. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a treasured staple in many kitchens—simple, delicious, and endlessly versatile. I can’t wait for you to make it and share the joy with your friends and family!