A high protein egg bake with cottage cheese is the perfect way to start your day strong. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with fuel to keep you going. In this post, you’ll get the story behind our favorite breakfast, learn how cottage cheese boosts nutrition, and find simple ways to customize the dish for your lifestyle.
How this egg bake became a staple in our kitchen
This high protein egg bake with cottage cheese came together on a hectic Sunday. Jake and I were juggling chores and needed something quick but satisfying. I remembered my grandmother’s egg casserole and decided to update it with cottage cheese for a lighter, protein packed version.
We added eggs, cottage cheese, spinach, and tomatoes then baked it until golden and fluffy. It hit the spot and has stayed in our rotation ever since.
Why cottage cheese makes all the difference
Cottage cheese gives the egg bake creaminess and a big boost of protein around 14 grams per half cup. It blends in easily and keeps the texture light. That’s why we also use it in our broccoli bites and chicken casseroles. It’s our go to for simple, high protein meals.
So when you want something hearty, healthy, and delicious, this high protein egg bake with cottage cheese delivers.
What You’ll Need + How to Make It
Ingredients for High Protein Egg Bake with Cottage Cheese
14 large eggs
2 cups cottage cheese (low fat or full fat both work)
½ cup milk
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional, but flavorful)
1½ cups cherry tomatoes
½ cup fresh basil leaves (loosely packed)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
Scatter the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil evenly across the bottom of the dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, and milk until well combined. Stir in parmesan cheese if using.
Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the egg mixture.
Pour the mixture over the tomatoes and basil in the dish.
Bake uncovered for about 35 minutes, or until the egg bake is puffed up and fully set in the center.
Let the dish cool for 15 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.
High Protein Egg Bake with Cottage Cheese: Simple & Satisfying
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This high protein egg bake with cottage cheese is light, creamy, and packed with simple ingredients like eggs, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. It’s an easy breakfast casserole perfect for meal prep or a nourishing weekend brunch.
Ingredients
▢14 large eggs
▢2 cups cottage cheese (low fat or full fat)
▢1/2 cup milk
▢1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional)
▢1.5 cups cherry tomatoes
▢1/2 cup loose fresh basil leaves
▢1 tsp garlic powder
▢1/2 tsp kosher salt
▢1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9×13 casserole dish. Arrange the tomatoes and fresh basil along the bottom of the dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, and milk. Add parmesan if using. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour on top of the basil and tomatoes.
3. Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until casserole is puffy and the eggs are set. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze cooled slices in airtight containers for quick breakfasts.
Reheat gently, covered, to keep the texture soft and moist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: Cottage cheese, turkey breakfast sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, green bell
Serving ideas to round out your breakfast
You can serve this high protein egg bake with cottage cheese on its own or build it into a complete meal. Pair it with avocado slices and a slice of whole grain toast, or serve it with a simple arugula salad like the one in our brunch greens with lemon vinaigrette.
It also freezes well. Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months perfect for busy mornings. Just reheat in the oven or microwave, and it’s ready in minutes.
This dish is easy enough for weekdays and special enough for Sunday brunch. Add a dash of hot sauce or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a little twist.
For even more protein friendly breakfast ideas, try pairing this dish with a side like our protein oatmeal cookies. They’re great for a sweet bite after a savory bake.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
Plan once, eat all week
This high protein egg bake with cottage cheese fits right into a meal prep routine. Bake it once, slice into portions, and store for weekday mornings. If you like variety, alternate days with our protein bagels another satisfying option that’s easy to prep ahead.
We often prep it on Sundays, then reheat slices for weekday breakfasts or a protein packed lunch. Add a side like our quick roasted sweet potatoes or even spoon over some spicy tomato chutney for variety.
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How to keep it fresh and flavorful
To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about a minute or warm it in the oven. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge. Keep it moist by covering it during reheating.
Want to switch it up? Wrap a slice in a tortilla with spinach and mustard. It’s a quick twist similar to our morning egg wrap, but faster.
What makes this high protein egg bake with cottage cheese so versatile is how easily it fits into your weekly routine whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself.
A high protein egg bake with cottage cheese is one of those rare recipes that checks every box it’s easy, nutritious, and completely customizable. Whether you’re prepping for a week of busy mornings or hosting a cozy brunch, this dish has your back. It’s become a staple in our kitchen, and we hope it earns a spot in yours too.
FAQ: Answering Your Top Questions
Can you add cottage cheese to eggs for more protein?
Absolutely. Cottage cheese blends beautifully with eggs and adds a creamy texture plus an extra protein punch. One of the reasons we love using it in a high protein egg bake with cottage cheese is that it adds about 14 grams of protein per half cup without changing the flavor.
What can I add to cottage cheese to increase protein?
You can stir in ingredients like diced cooked chicken, lean turkey, or egg whites. In our high protein egg bake with cottage cheese, we often double down on protein by adding turkey sausage or a sprinkle of hemp seeds. These upgrades keep the bake satisfying and filling for longer.
Is cottage cheese higher in protein than eggs?
Ounce for ounce, yes. A half cup of low fat cottage cheese has roughly 14 grams of protein, while a single large egg contains about 6 grams. That’s why combining both in a high protein egg bake with cottage cheese gives you a complete, protein rich meal that supports muscle recovery and keeps hunger at bay.
How many calories in a cottage cheese egg bake?
One slice of a high protein egg bake with cottage cheese typically ranges from 150 to 200 calories, depending on what you add. Using low fat cheese, lean meats, and veggies helps keep it lighter while still providing plenty of protein.