You know that cozy Sunday morning feeling when the house smells like something delicious baking, and you’re still in pajamas? That’s exactly the vibe this Spinach Cottage Cheese Egg Bake delivers. It has been trending for good reason! This high protein egg casserole takes just 10 minutes to prep and serves a full house with ease.
Think of it as the perfect marriage between a frittata and everyone’s favorite breakfast casserole with cottage cheese. We’re talking fluffy eggs, creamy cottage cheese, and vibrant spinach baked into golden perfection. It’s a one-pan hero using ingredients likely already hiding in your fridge. Full instructions and details just ahead.
I’ve refined this recipe over several months after being inspired by my neighbor’s grandmother. Her secret? A small splash of cream and letting the mixture rest before baking. Trust me it makes all the difference. Your kitchen will smell like pure Sunday morning magic.
Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Recipe
This spinach cottage cheese egg bake brings back memories of relaxing weekend mornings at my grandmother Julia’s kitchen table, where a warm breakfast always came with a hug. The cottage cheese adds a creamy, almost soufflé-like texture while delivering an impressive 12 grams of protein per serving!
What I love most is how versatile and forgiving this dish is. Use fresh or frozen spinach, whatever herbs you’ve got, and it’s practically impossible to mess up. It also tastes even better the next day, making it a dream come true for meal prep or hosting guests without the chaos.
Why It Works | The Magic Behind It |
---|---|
High Protein Power | Eggs + cottage cheese = 12g protein per serving |
Naturally Gluten-Free | No need for flour or bread |
Meal Prep Friendly | Delicious hot or cold, reheats beautifully |
Budget-Friendly | Uses common, affordable ingredients |
Let’s Talk Ingredients and Tools

The brilliance of this high protein egg casserole comes from its unfussy ingredient list. You’ll just need eggs, cottage cheese, and spinachyour breakfast power trio. I keep these stocked at all timesthey’re reliable staples in our home.
As for tools, grab a medium mixing bowl, a whisk, and an 8×8-inch baking dish. I adore using my grandmother’s old ceramic dishit heats evenly and adds a nostalgic feel.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: Both work, but ensure frozen spinach is fully defrosted and squeezed dry
- Cottage Cheese Choice: Full-fat gives you the richest texture, but low-fat versions also yield great results
- Optional Add-Ins: Thinly sliced scallions add depth, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley add brightness
How This Magic Happens Step-by-Step
Preparing this bake couldn’t be simplerwhisk the wet ingredients, fold in the extras, pour, and bake. The key to getting that ultra-smooth texture is to make sure the cottage cheese is fully blended with the eggs.
A tip from my mom Eleanor: let the mixture rest for 1-2 minutes after whisking. This lets bubbles settleresulting in a creamier, more cohesive texture once baked.
Step | Time | Key Point |
---|---|---|
Prep & Preheat | 5 minutes | Preheat oven to 375°F and grease baking dish thoroughly |
Mix Ingredients | 5 minutes | Beat eggs gently, then whisk in cottage cheese and spinach until evenly blended |
Bake | 30–35 minutes | Bake until center is set and top is golden; test with a toothpick if unsure |
Cool & Slice | 10 minutes | Allow to cool slightly for clean slicing and easier serving |
When Things Go a Little Sideways
Even a trusty recipe like this eggs cottage cheese breakfast can have its moments. If you’re finding it too watery, it’s likely from the spinachdrain it fully! Use a clean kitchen towel and squeeze it dry to prevent excess moisture in your bake.
If the top starts browning a bit too soon, just cover loosely with foil. A slightly jiggly center is finegive it a few more minutes and let it firm as it cools. Here’s a quick troubleshoot list:
- Too Watery: Thoroughly drain thawed spinach; pat fresh dry with paper towels
- Tough Texture: Avoid overbeating eggswhisk gently until mixed
- Uneven Cooking: Use a level baking dish and center it in the oven
Easy Swaps That Actually Work
This recipe encourages customization. Replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard, toss in sautéed mushrooms for a deeper flavor, or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for subtle heat. You can also adapt it into a stovetop frittata for a quicker cook time.
Original | Swap Option | Notes |
---|---|---|
Fresh Spinach | Frozen kale, arugula, or chard | Be sure to drain well to avoid sogginess |
Scallions | Yellow onions, chives, or leeks | Sauté first for mellow sweetness |
Full-fat cottage cheese | Ricotta or Greek yogurt | Ricotta is creamier, yogurt adds tanginess and protein |
Salt & Pepper | Garlic powder, Italian herbs, or smoked paprika | Start with 1/4 tsp and adjust to taste |
Serving and Storing Like a Pro
This dish slices beautifully and holds together wellideal for serving at brunch or for weekday breakfasts on the go. I love pairing it with fresh fruit and crispy potatoes for contrast and completeness.
Properly stored, this breakfast casserole with cottage cheese stays fresh for up to five days in the fridge. I prefer reheating in a toaster oven or skillet for best texture. Individual portions can be microwaved quickly for busy mornings.
Storage Method | Duration | Best Reheating |
---|---|---|
Refrigerator | 5 days | Toaster oven or nonstick skillet |
Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw in fridge overnight, then reheat in oven |
Individual portions | Up to 5 days chilled | Microwave 30–60 seconds, covered |
Expert Insight: The Benefits of a Spinach Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
Cottage cheese adds creaminess and an impressive dose of protein without loading on fat, which is part of why this dish is so satisfying yet light. Combined with spinach, which is iron- and fiber-rich, it provides an energizing and well-balanced breakfast or brunch loaded with essential nutrients and flavor.
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The Long Road to the Perfect Spinach Cottage Cheese Egg Bake
This Spinach Cottage Cheese Egg Bake took a few trials to perfect. Early versions were either rubbery or weepytoo much moisture or overbaking can do that. But after adjusting the ratios, draining spinach properly, and keeping the bake time just right, this recipe now delivers every time. It tastes like love baked into every bite.
FAQs ( Spinach Cottage Cheese Egg Bake – High-Protein, Low-Carb Breakfast )
How much protein does this Spinach Cottage Cheese Egg Bake contain?
This high protein egg casserole packs approximately 20-25 grams of protein per serving, depending on portion size. The combination of cottage cheese and eggs creates a powerhouse of complete proteins, making it perfect for muscle building and keeping you full throughout the morning. It’s one of the most protein-dense breakfast options you can make at home!
Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole eggs with egg whites and cottage cheese for an even leaner version. Use about 2 egg whites for every whole egg called for in the recipe. This swap reduces calories and fat while maintaining the high protein content that makes this breakfast casserole with cottage cheese so satisfying.
How long can I store leftover spinach egg casserole?
Your leftover spinach egg casserole will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days when stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months – just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it perfect for meal prep and busy mornings!
Can I make this recipe as a cottage cheese frittata instead?
Yes, you can easily transform this into a cottage cheese frittata by using a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan. Start cooking on the stovetop for 3-4 minutes, then transfer to the oven to finish. The cooking time will be slightly shorter than the traditional baked casserole method, usually around 15-20 minutes at 375F.
What other vegetables work well in this eggs cottage cheese breakfast?
This versatile eggs cottage cheese breakfast recipe works beautifully with bell peppers, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, broccoli, or zucchini. Just make sure to saute watery vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini first to remove excess moisture. You can also add herbs like chives, dill, or basil for extra flavor without adding carbs.

Your New Go-To Weekend Breakfast
This Spinach Cottage Cheese Egg Bake checks every box for weekend bliss: minimal cleanup, rich flavors, nourishing ingredients, and that unmistakable comfort-food satisfaction. Thanks to the blend of creamy cottage cheese and eggs, it stays moist while delivering plenty of proteinand it somehow tastes even better the next day.
Try jazzing it up with your favorite tweaks: mushrooms for umami depth, kale for a hardy green, or a few sun-dried tomatoes for brightness. Store leftovers in the fridge and enjoy them throughout the week. And don’t forget my go-to tip from Grandma Julia: let the mixture rest before it bakes for that dreamy, even texture that sets this high protein egg casserole apart.
I’d absolutely love to hear how this recipe makes its way into your mornings. Was there a version of an eggs cottage cheese breakfast in your family’s history? Share photos, stories, and your own creative twistsbecause the best recipes are the ones that keep evolving from kitchen to kitchen.
PrintSPINACH COTTAGE CHEESE EGG BAKE
This Spinach Cottage Cheese Egg Bake is a no-fuss, high protein breakfast casserole with cottage cheese. Naturally gluten-free and packed with fresh spinach, it’s perfect for meal prep or a tasty start to your day. Enjoy this eggs cottage cheese breakfast that fits well into spinach and egg recipes and high protein egg casserole collections.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 squares 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
- 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach (or 3/4 cup frozen thawed and drained)
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions or onions (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or butter for greasing pan
- Optional: chopped herbs
- mushrooms
- red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and cottage cheese until fully combined.
- Fold in spinach, onions (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the center is set and edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen spinach—just be sure to remove extra moisture
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for future meals
- Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to maintain texture
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 185mg