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High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese

Delicious High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese Joy

High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese is a comforting dish made with vibrant veggies and creamy cottage cheese, perfect for meal prep or family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner Ideas
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Bake
  • 2 cups cottage cheese A creamy base that packs a protein punch and keeps the bake moist.
  • 1 cup spinach, finely chopped Adds vibrant color and loads of nutrients like iron and vitamins.
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced Choose any color for sweetness; they add crunch and vitamin C.
  • 1 cup zucchini, grated Enhances moisture and reduces calories, perfect for sneaking in veggies!
  • 1 cup mushrooms, diced Gives a savory umami flavor while boosting the overall texture.
  • ½ cup onion, finely chopped Adds aromatic depth and a hint of sweetness when sautéed.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Elevates the flavor profile with its unmistakable aroma and taste.
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice A hearty addition that provides extra fiber and a nutty flavor.
For the Binding
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully to create a cheesy, golden topping.
  • 2 large eggs Acts as a binder and contributes additional protein to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Infuses the bake with a traditional Italian flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil Adds a hint of sweetness and fragrance that complements the veggies.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Essential to enhance all the natural flavors of your ingredients.
To Finish
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps with sautéing and adds a touch of healthy fat for flavor.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) A vibrant touch that adds freshness and color to your final dish!

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for about 3–4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
  3. Next, add the diced bell peppers, grated zucchini, and diced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for another 5–6 minutes until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned, then add the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, cooked quinoa (or brown rice), shredded mozzarella cheese, eggs, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well-combined.
  5. Once the sautéed vegetable mixture has cooled, gently fold it into the cottage cheese mixture.
  6. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
  7. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes until the top is slightly golden and firm to the touch.
  8. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
  9. Cut the bake into squares and serve warm as a nutritious meal or as a delightful snack throughout the week.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 12gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze portions for a quick meal later. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

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