If you want a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that feels like comfort food, this Cottage Cheese Veggie Bake is it. It’s packed with colorful vegetables, loaded with protein, and made with simple ingredients—perfect for beginners and great for meal prep.
This bake is often called “anti-inflammatory” because it includes ingredients commonly used in inflammation-friendly eating patterns—like broccoli, mushrooms, peppers, herbs, olive oil, and garlic—while keeping things balanced and wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High-protein and filling (thanks to cottage cheese + eggs)
- Easy one-pan meal
- Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
- Perfect for meal prep (stores and reheats beautifully)
- Naturally gluten-free (no flour needed)
Ingredients (Serves 6)
Base
- 2 cups (about 450 g) cottage cheese (2% or full-fat for best texture)
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix) (optional but delicious)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric (optional “anti-inflammatory” boost)
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
Veggies (mix & match)
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red/yellow/orange)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed & squeezed dry)
- 1 small onion, diced (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (brightens the flavor)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) for extra punch
Instructions
- Preheat oven: 375°F (190°C).
Grease an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish or a 9-inch square dish. - Cook the veggies (recommended):
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion (if using) for 2 minutes, then add mushrooms and peppers. Cook 4–5 minutes.
Add broccoli for 2 more minutes. Stir in spinach last until just wilted. Remove from heat. - Mix the batter:
In a large bowl, whisk eggs. Add cottage cheese, garlic, salt, pepper, seasoning, turmeric (optional), and shredded cheese (optional). - Combine:
Fold the cooked veggies into the egg-cottage cheese mixture. - Bake:
Pour into the prepared dish and bake 30–40 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden. - Rest & slice:
Let it rest 10 minutes before slicing for clean squares.
How to Serve
- With a simple green salad + olive oil/lemon dressing
- With avocado slices or a spoon of Greek yogurt on top
- As a breakfast meal prep square with cherry tomatoes on the side