High-Protein Veggie Cheese Bake

This high-protein cottage cheese veggie bake has become my ultimate meal prep solution for busy weeks when I need nutritious, filling meals without daily cooking hassle.

I created this dish during a particularly chaotic month when I needed something I could make once and enjoy throughout the week. Now my teenagers actually request it before their sports practices for lasting energy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cottage cheese provides the protein foundation and creates a fluffy texture once baked
• 3 large eggs act as the binding agent that holds everything together
• 2 cups frozen mixed veggies add color nutrition and flavor without any chopping required
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese creates that irresistible golden top and savory depth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder infuses every bite with aromatic flavor
• 1 teaspoon onion powder adds savory notes that complement the vegetables perfectly
• Salt and pepper to taste always adjust according to your preference
• 1 tablespoon olive oil ensures nothing sticks to your baking dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F and thoroughly coat a 9×9 inch baking dish with olive oil making sure to get the corners where sticking is most likely to occur.

Create The Base Mixture

In a large bowl whisk together cottage cheese and eggs vigorously until you achieve a relatively smooth consistency about 1 to 2 minutes of continuous whisking will incorporate air for a fluffier result.

Incorporate Vegetables And Seasonings

Gently fold in the frozen mixed vegetables they can go in frozen directly from the package along with the cheddar cheese garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Transfer And Bake

Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish using a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges which ensures consistent cooking throughout the casserole.

Monitor Baking Progress

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes checking after 25 minutes the top should develop a beautiful golden brown color and the center should be set with just a slight jiggle when you gently shake the dish.

Rest Before Serving

Allow the bake to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after removing from the oven this resting period allows the proteins to set making it much easier to cut into clean squares for serving.

The cottage cheese is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. While many people overlook it as just a diet food I find it transforms magically when baked becoming creamy and rich rather than curdy. My daughter who claims to hate cottage cheese devours this bake without hesitation.

Vegetable Variations

This recipe welcomes creativity with your vegetable choices. While the frozen mixed blend offers convenience I sometimes use seasonal fresh vegetables for different flavors. Bell peppers zucchini spinach and broccoli work exceptionally well. Just remember to quickly sauté fresh vegetables first to release excess moisture that could make your bake watery.

Make It A Complete Meal

Turn this protein packed bake into a complete meal by serving it alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. For a heartier option pair it with a slice of whole grain toast or roasted sweet potatoes. This combination creates a balanced meal with protein vegetables and complex carbohydrates to keep you satisfied for hours.

Meal Prep Magic

This bake shines brightest as a meal prep solution. After cooling completely cut into six equal portions and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Each portion reheats beautifully in the microwave in just 90 seconds making it perfect for quick breakfasts or packed lunches. The flavor actually improves after a day as the ingredients meld together.

Protein Customization

While this vegetarian version packs impressive protein content you can easily increase it further by adding cooked shredded chicken ground turkey or even smoked salmon. Fold in your protein of choice just before baking making sure any meat is fully cooked beforehand. This adaptation can boost protein content to nearly 30g per serving.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute fresh vegetables for frozen in this dish. However, it's important to cook fresh vegetables first to remove excess moisture that could make the bake watery. Sauté them lightly before adding to the cottage cheese mixture.

→ How long does this dish keep in the refrigerator?

This cottage cheese veggie bake keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. It makes excellent leftovers and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this dish is perfect for vegetarians as it contains eggs and dairy but no meat. It provides an excellent source of vegetarian protein from the cottage cheese and eggs.

→ Can I freeze this cottage cheese bake?

While you can freeze this dish, the texture of cottage cheese may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze in individual portions, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ How can I make this dish more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or chives. You could also incorporate sautéed onions and garlic instead of powders, add a dash of smoked paprika, or mix in some crumbled feta cheese along with the cheddar.

→ What can I serve with this veggie bake?

This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread. For breakfast, serve with fresh fruit. For dinner, it works as a side dish alongside grilled protein or as the main attraction with a hearty grain like quinoa or farro.