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Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 60 reviews

This Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake is a wholesome and delicious casserole packed with fresh vegetables and creamy cheeses. It combines sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, and onions with cottage cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, all baked into a golden, comforting dish. Perfect as a nutritious main course or a hearty side, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color, diced)
  • 1 cup chopped zucchini
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Eggs

  • 2 cups cottage cheese (use low-fat for a lighter option)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Other

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time your dish is ready to bake.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Cook Vegetables: Add the diced bell peppers and chopped zucchini to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, cooked vegetable mixture, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, eggs, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  5. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the cottage cheese and veggie mixture into the dish, smoothing out the top.
  6. Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the casserole is set in the center.
  7. Cool and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Slice into portions and serve warm as a satisfying main dish or a nutritious side.

Notes

  • You can use either fresh or frozen spinach; if using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain to avoid excess moisture in the bake.
  • Substitute cheeses or use low-fat options to reduce calories and fat content.
  • This bake pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • For added flavor, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes or fresh herbs on top before serving.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: cottage cheese bake, vegetable casserole, healthy dinner, vegetarian casserole, baked veggie dish

Find it online: https://cookwithyana.com/cottage-cheese-and-veggie-bake-recipe/