You know that moment when you’re staring into the fridge, wanting something substantial but not heavy? This High Protein Egg Casserole with Cottage Cheese has been making waves everywhere lately. It’s fluffy, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to pull together on a lazy Sunday morning.
Think of it as a cross between a quiche and a breakfast scramble, but fluffier and way more forgiving. Eggs, cottage cheese, and your favorite mix-ins bake into something golden and gorgeous. Everything’s probably in your fridge right now. Full details in the blog!
I’ve been tweaking this one for weeks, testing different cheese ratios and herb combinations. There’s something magical about how cottage cheese melts into the eggscreates this incredible creaminess without any fuss. My secret? A tiny pinch of smoked paprika that changes everything.
Why This High Protein Egg Casserole Will Become Your New Favorite
There’s something deeply satisfying about a dish that delivers both comfort and nutrition without any complicated techniques. This casserole hits that sweet spot perfectlycreamy cottage cheese melts seamlessly into fluffy eggs, creating a texture that’s almost custard-like but much more forgiving.
What I love most is how the cherry tomatoes burst during baking, releasing their juices to create little pockets of concentrated flavor throughout. The fresh basil wilts just enough to perfume the entire dish with that unmistakable summer herb aroma that makes everything taste homemade.
- Meal prep friendly: Make it Sunday, enjoy it all week
- Naturally gluten-free: No flour or bread needed
- 17 grams of protein per serving: Keeps you satisfied for hours
- Customizable base: Swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand
Key Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicityevery ingredient has a purpose, and most are probably sitting in your refrigerator right now. The cottage cheese is the real game-changer here, adding both protein and an incredible creaminess that you just can’t get from eggs alone.

I always reach for full-fat cottage cheese when I can, but the low-fat version works beautifully too. The milk helps everything blend smoothly, while the Parmesan adds that subtle nutty depth that elevates the whole dish from ordinary to something special.
Ingredient | Role in the Recipe | Can’t Find It? |
---|---|---|
Cottage cheese | Adds protein and creamy texture | Try ricotta or Greek yogurt |
Cherry tomatoes | Bursts of sweet-tart flavor | Grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes |
Fresh basil | Aromatic herb base | Dried basil (use 2 tablespoons) or fresh spinach |
Parmesan cheese | Nutty depth and richness | Sharp cheddar or Gruyere |
How It All Comes Together
This is one of those recipes where the technique is as simple as the ingredient list. You’re essentially creating layers of flavorthe tomatoes and basil form an aromatic base, while the egg mixture settles around and through everything as it bakes.
The key is whisking that cottage cheese really well with the eggs and milk. I like to use a large whisk and give it a good 30 seconds of vigorous mixing to break up any large curds. This creates that smooth, custard-like texture once it’s baked.
- Layer first: Tomatoes and basil create the flavor foundation
- Whisk thoroughly: Smooth cottage cheese makes all the difference
- Pour gently: Let the egg mixture settle naturally around the vegetables
- Bake until puffy: The casserole will rise beautifully and set perfectly
Step | Time | What to Look For |
---|---|---|
Prep ingredients | 5 minutes | Tomatoes and basil arranged in dish |
Mix egg base | 2 minutes | Smooth, well-combined mixture |
Bake | 35 minutes | Puffy, golden, and set in center |
Cool and serve | 15 minutes | Firms up for clean slicing |
Troubleshooting and Pro Tips
Even the most straightforward recipes can have their little quirks, and I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make this High Protein Egg Casserole with Cottage Cheese absolutely foolproof every time.
The most common issue I see is a watery casserole, which usually happens when the tomatoes release too much moisture. Pat your cherry tomatoes dry with a paper towel before arranging them in the dishthis simple step prevents any soggy bottom situations.
- Casserole seems watery: Pat tomatoes dry and make sure your oven temperature is accurate
- Eggs aren’t setting: Give it another 5-10 minutesevery oven runs differently
- Top browning too quickly: Tent with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking
- Cottage cheese looks lumpy: Whisk more vigorously or pulse briefly in a blender
Make It Your Own
This recipe is incredibly forgiving and practically begs for your personal touch. I love how easily it adapts to whatever vegetables are looking beautiful at the market or hiding in your crisper drawer.
Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini all work beautifully in place of or alongside the tomatoes. Just remember to sauté any harder vegetables like peppers for a few minutes first, or slice zucchini thinly so it cooks through properly.
Swap This | For This | Notes |
---|---|---|
Cherry tomatoes | Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach | Sauté harder veggies first |
Fresh basil | Thyme, oregano, chives | Use about half the amount for stronger herbs |
Parmesan | Cheddar, feta, goat cheese | Feta and goat cheese are saltierreduce salt slightly |
Milk | Heavy cream, half-and-half | Creates richer texture |
Storage and Serving Ideas
This casserole is a meal prep superstarit keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days and actually tastes even better the next day as all those flavors meld together. I like to cut it into individual squares and store them in glass containers for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
For serving, it’s delicious warm from the oven, at room temperature, or even cold straight from the fridge. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of hot sauce never goes amiss either.
Expert Insight: The Power of Protein in BreakfastIncorporating cottage cheese into a high protein egg casserole boosts both texture and nutrition. The combination delivers sustained energy and supports muscle repair, making this dish a smart choice for a balanced morning meal that keeps you full longer.For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!Mastering the High Protein Egg Casserole with Cottage CheeseThis high protein egg casserole with cottage cheese took several mornings of trialand a few bubbly, overbaked edgesbefore I nailed the balance of creaminess and fluff. Each attempt revealed something new about timing and heat, and now it’s a cozy, satisfying dish that fuels busy family breakfasts with wholesome flavor.FAQs ( High Protein Egg Casserole with Cottage Cheese )
How much protein does this high protein egg casserole contain?
This high protein egg casserole with cottage cheese typically contains 20-25 grams of protein per serving, depending on the portion size. The combination of eggs and cottage cheese creates a protein powerhouse that’s perfect for breakfast or meal prep. With eggs providing complete amino acids and cottage cheese adding extra protein and calcium, you’re getting a nutritionally dense meal. This makes it an excellent choice for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking to increase their protein intake naturally.
Can I make this egg casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This high protein egg casserole is perfect for meal prep and can be made up to 2 days ahead of time. Simply prepare the casserole as directed, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it’s starting cold. You can also bake it completely, then reheat individual portions throughout the week for quick, protein-packed meals.
What type of cottage cheese works best for this recipe?
For the best texture and flavor, use full-fat or 2% cottage cheese rather than fat-free varieties. Small curd cottage cheese tends to distribute more evenly throughout the casserole, creating a smoother consistency. However, large curd works perfectly fine if that’s what you have on hand – it just adds a bit more texture. Some brands like Good Culture or Daisy offer excellent quality cottage cheese that melts beautifully and doesn’t make the casserole watery.
How long does this egg casserole last in the refrigerator?
Your high protein egg casserole will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container or covered dish. For best results, let it cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation. Individual portions reheat beautifully in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months – just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for meal prep success!
Can I add vegetables to this high protein egg casserole?
Yes! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost the nutrition and flavor of your high protein egg casserole. Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and broccoli all work wonderfully. Just make sure to saute watery vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini first to remove excess moisture – nobody wants a soggy casserole! Aim for about 1-2 cups of chopped vegetables total, and fold them in gently with the cottage cheese mixture. This keeps your protein content high while adding fiber, vitamins, and delicious flavor combinations.
Your New Go-To High Protein BreakfastThis High Protein Egg Casserole with Cottage Cheese delivers exactly what it promises – fluffy, satisfying comfort in under 45 minutes. You’ll love how the cottage cheese creates this amazing creaminess while boosting the protein to keep you full for hours. It’s become my favorite Sunday prep recipe because it tastes even better the next day.Try swapping the cherry tomatoes for roasted red peppers or adding a handful of fresh spinach for extra nutrients. I’ve discovered that a pinch of everything bagel seasoning on top before baking adds incredible flavor depth. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to five days – they’re delicious cold or gently reheated with a drizzle of hot sauce.I’d love to see your variations! Did you add any favorite herbs or vegetables? Share your photos and tell me how this casserole fits into your morning routine. This recipe has that wonderful way of making any kitchen feel more homey and nourished.
Storage Method | Duration | Best For |
---|---|---|
Refrigerator | 5 days | Weekly meal prep |
High Protein Egg Casserole with Cottage Cheese
This simple egg dish comes together for an easy and healthy breakfast that is loaded with protein. The addition of cottage cheese enhances both flavor and texture for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 9
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 194kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 492mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 304mg