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If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, colorful, and soul-soothing breakfast or brunch option, this Cheesy Veggie Egg Bake Recipe is an absolute winner. Bursting with vibrant vegetables, creamy cottage cheese, and that irresistible cheesy comfort, it’s a one-dish wonder that brings people together with every bite. Simple to prepare but packed with flavor, this egg bake is the perfect way to start your day or impress guests without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the ideal harmony of textures and flavors: from the soft, fluffy eggs to the savory sautéed veggies and rich cottage cheese. These essentials come together effortlessly for a dish that’s as delicious as it is inviting.
- 12 eggs: The foundation of this bake, providing a rich and fluffy base packed with protein.
- 1½ cups cottage cheese: Adds creamy texture and a subtle tang that brightens every bite.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced: Earthy mushrooms bring umami depth and meaty softness to the dish.
- 1½ cups bell peppers, diced: Vibrant and sweet, these add a splash of color and crunch.
- 4 green onions, diced: Fresh and mildly sharp, they infuse freshness throughout the bake.
- 1 Tbsp butter: Essential for sautéing, it enhances flavor and adds a luscious richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring all the ingredients together perfectly.
How to Make Cheesy Veggie Egg Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your egg bake cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden top without fuss.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and toss in the sliced mushrooms and diced bell peppers. Sauté until tender and fragrant, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper to amplify their natural flavors. This step builds the savory base your egg bake will shine on.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs
While your veggies are sizzling, crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl. Whisk them well until the yolks and whites are fully combined, creating a smooth, slightly frothy liquid—this will guarantee a tender texture once baked.
Step 4: Combine Cottage Cheese and Veggies
To the whisked eggs, add the creamy cottage cheese and the warm sautéed vegetables. Stir everything together to distribute the ingredients evenly, giving you a perfectly balanced bite of cheesy goodness and fresh veggies throughout.
Step 5: Add Green Onions and Season
Next, fold in the diced green onions, which contribute a subtle sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste, knowing this step will heighten all the natural flavors already working in harmony.
Step 6: Prepare and Fill the Baking Pan
Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and pour in your rich egg and veggie mixture. Spread it out evenly so it cooks uniformly, setting the stage for a gorgeous golden bake.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the top, and if it browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil to keep it from overcooking while the center finishes setting up. The end result should be a fluffy, set egg dish with that inviting golden crust on top.
How to Serve Cheesy Veggie Egg Bake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cheesy Veggie Egg Bake Recipe, scatter fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving. These simple touches add brightness and a pop of color that make every bite feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This egg bake pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides such as a crisp mixed green salad, sliced avocado, or even some warm, crusty bread. The freshness and textures of these accompaniments balance the rich, cheesy bake perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming brunch spread, cut the egg bake into neat squares and arrange them on a wooden platter surrounded by bowls of salsa, sour cream, and extra veggies. You can also serve individual portions in small ramekins for a personalized touch that’s great for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and your egg bake will stay fresh for up to 4 days—making for quick breakfasts or snacks during a busy week.
Freezing
This bake freezes surprisingly well. Just cut it into portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy a hassle-free meal.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. This will keep the bake moist and delicious without drying out the eggs or cheese.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this Cheesy Veggie Egg Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add veggies like spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Just be mindful of moisture-heavy veggies and sauté accordingly to avoid sogginess.
Is cottage cheese necessary or can I use a different cheese?
Cottage cheese adds creaminess without overwhelming the dish, but you can substitute ricotta, cream cheese, or even a blend of shredded mozzarella and cheddar for varied textures and flavors.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian. For a vegan twist, replace the eggs with a chickpea flour batter or a tofu scramble base and use vegan cheese alternatives.
Can I prepare the dish ahead of time before baking?
Yes! Combine all ingredients and store the mixture in the fridge overnight. When ready, pour it into the baking dish and bake as instructed for a fresh, tasty breakfast without the morning rush.
What is the best way to prevent the top from getting too brown?
If you notice the top browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking. This keeps the eggs fully cooked while protecting the surface from burning.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Veggie Egg Bake Recipe is truly a gem in the kitchen—easy to make, endlessly versatile, and wonderfully comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to a nutritious start, it’s sure to become one of your go-to dishes. So, grab those eggs and veggies, and get ready to delight your taste buds with a bake that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
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Print
Cheesy Veggie Egg Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Cheesy Veggie Egg Bake is a hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch dish, combining fluffy eggs with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, cottage cheese, and fresh green onions. Baked to perfection, it’s a great way to enjoy a protein-packed meal loaded with vegetables, perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 12 eggs
- 1½ cups cottage cheese
- 4 green onions, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1½ cups bell peppers, diced
Other
- 1 Tbsp butter
- Olive oil spray (for pan)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for baking the egg dish.
- Sauté Veggies: In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the sliced mushrooms and diced bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Prepare Eggs: Crack all 12 eggs into a large bowl and whisk thoroughly until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
- Add Ingredients: Mix the cottage cheese into the whisked eggs, then fold in the sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers, stirring gently to combine evenly.
- Season: Stir in the diced green onions, then adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper as needed to enhance all the flavors.
- Prepare Pan: Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Pour in the combined egg and vegetable mixture evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
- Serve: Remove from oven once the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Let it cool slightly, then serve warm for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean when the bake is fully cooked.
- You can swap cottage cheese with ricotta or shredded mozzarella for variation.
- Add extra seasoning such as garlic powder or smoked paprika for a flavor boost.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and reheated gently for convenience.
- Use olive oil spray or any preferred oil to prevent sticking instead of butter in the pan.
