Ultimate High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese

I always strive to create recipes that bring together health, comfort, and flavor—and this Ultimate High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese ticks every box. I first developed this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty, packed with protein, yet light enough to feel energized after eating. With a fridge full of fresh vegetables and a tub of creamy cottage cheese, I layered them together and created something that quickly became a weekly staple.

What I love most about this bake is how it doesn’t sacrifice flavor in pursuit of nutrition. It’s a warm, bubbly dish filled with seasoned roasted vegetables, creamy eggs, and cottage cheese. The texture is both soft and satisfying, with the perfect golden top. Every bite feels like a reward.

You will love this recipe for so many reasons. It’s high in protein, low in fat, and brimming with nutrients from fresh veggies. It works as a wholesome breakfast, a filling lunch, or a comforting dinner. Whether you’re vegetarian or just looking to cut back on meat, this recipe is satisfying and fulfilling.

It’s incredibly versatile. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand—broccoli, bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or even grated carrots. If you want to add more flavor, chopped herbs like parsley or basil make a huge difference. Want it spicier? Add chili flakes. Craving something heartier? Mix in cooked quinoa or roasted sweet potatoes. It adapts easily to your mood and pantry.

Affordability is another reason this dish deserves a regular spot on your table. The ingredients are simple and budget-friendly. Cottage cheese, eggs, and seasonal vegetables come together without breaking the bank. It’s a perfect example of how healthy eating doesn’t have to cost more.

Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need for this high-protein veggie bake:

Ingredients for the recipe:
– 2 cups cottage cheese
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ¼ cup grated low-fat cheese (optional, for topping)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

HOW TO PREPARE THIS RECIPE

This high-protein veggie bake is one of the easiest and most nourishing dishes you can prepare. It requires minimal prep, basic cooking skills, and just a bit of time in the oven. Once baked, it comes out golden, firm, and ready to slice into hearty portions you can enjoy throughout the week.

Let me walk you through how to make it from scratch. You’ll find that each step is quick and straightforward—and the result is well worth the short effort.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with a bit of olive oil or line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once warm, add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the chopped bell peppers and broccoli florets. Sauté for another 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables are tender but not mushy. If you’re using frozen spinach, squeeze out excess moisture and stir it in now. For fresh spinach, add it in the last 2 minutes so it wilts without overcooking.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and cottage cheese until fully combined. The mixture should look smooth and creamy. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. These seasonings bring depth without overpowering the natural flavors of the vegetables.

Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the sautéed vegetables to the egg and cottage cheese mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated and well distributed. This is where you can fold in extras like chopped herbs, cooked quinoa, or shredded chicken ham if you’re looking for more bulk.

Step 5: Pour into Baking Dish
Carefully pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. If you want a cheesy crust, sprinkle the grated low-fat cheese on top now.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is firm and no longer jiggles. The top should be lightly golden, and the edges will slightly pull away from the pan.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the bake cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the structure firm up, making it easier to cut neat squares or wedges.

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Quick and Easy

This dish is a go-to for busy days. From start to finish, it takes just under an hour—with most of that time spent hands-free while it bakes. You can prep the vegetables in advance, or even mix everything the night before and bake it fresh the next morning. It reheats beautifully in both the microwave and oven, making it perfect for weekly meal planning.

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Customizable

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Don’t have broccoli? Swap it for zucchini or cauliflower. Out of cottage cheese? Ricotta or Greek yogurt can step in. You can add chopped tomatoes, sweetcorn, or even shredded turkey bacon for a little extra protein and flavor.

Want to make it dairy-free? Try using plant-based cottage cheese or tofu blended with nutritional yeast for that same creamy texture.

The spices are adjustable too. Add a pinch of cumin or turmeric for a warm, earthy taste. Or mix in Italian seasoning and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.

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Popular with Many People

This veggie bake is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. It fits easily into a variety of diets—high-protein, vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-carb. It works for families, couples, or solo meals. I often make it for brunch gatherings, and it always disappears fast.

It’s kid-friendly too. If you’re cooking for little ones, you can sneak in extra vegetables, cut them small, and they’ll blend right in. The mild flavor and cheesy top make it approachable even for picky eaters.

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FAQs

Can I prepare this veggie bake ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can fully assemble the bake, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight before baking. When ready, pop it in the oven and bake as directed. It’s also excellent for meal prep—store portions in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, cut it into portions, and wrap each piece individually. Store them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Reheat in the oven or microwave when needed.

Is cottage cheese necessary? Can I substitute it?
Cottage cheese provides creaminess and protein, but if you prefer, you can use ricotta cheese or a thick Greek yogurt instead. For a dairy-free version, use blended silken tofu or a dairy-free cottage cheese alternative.

What vegetables work best?
This recipe is very forgiving. Broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and zucchini all work beautifully. Just be sure to sauté them first to reduce moisture and enhance flavor.

Can I add meat?
Yes! You can add chopped cooked chicken ham or turkey bacon for extra protein. Be sure to mix it in with the vegetables before baking.