This Cheese and Cottage Cheese Casserole is a delicious and savory dish, combining the creaminess of cottage cheese with the richness of cheddar and Parmesan, baked together into a golden, comforting meal. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this casserole offers a satisfying, hearty option that’s sure to please everyone. It’s an incredibly easy recipe that is perfect for busy mornings or even as a part of a larger family meal. The versatility of this dish allows it to be paired with other sides or made more flavorful with spices and herbs.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
Cuisine
This casserole is a classic comfort food, inspired by American-style baked casseroles. Its cheese base and savory flavor make it a popular choice in American households, especially for breakfast or brunch. It’s rich, filling, and perfect for any meal of the day.
Full List of Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Mixture
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch (or similar sized) baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures the casserole won’t stick to the dish while baking.
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 eggs and whisk them until well combined and slightly frothy. This step is essential to ensure a smooth texture for the casserole.
In a separate bowl, combine the cottage cheese, grated cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, melted butter, baking powder, and salt. Stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated, ensuring that the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Next, add the chopped green onions into the mixture. Green onions not only add flavor but also a slight crunch to the casserole. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this is also the point where you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, depending on how spicy you like your dish. The red pepper flakes can add a nice touch of warmth that complements the richness of the cheese. -
Transfer to Baking Dish
Once the mixture is well combined, pour it into the prepared baking dish. Be sure to spread it evenly using a spatula, so the casserole cooks uniformly. The top of the mixture should be smooth, with no lumps.
This dish can be baked right away, but if you prefer, you can refrigerate it for an hour before baking. Refrigerating the casserole before baking can help the flavors meld together more deeply. -
Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Check the casserole by gently pressing on the center; it should be firm, not jiggly. The top should have a slight golden color to it, which signifies that it’s perfectly baked. -
Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes once it’s out of the oven. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice into portions.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a touch of color and freshness. If you want extra flavor, feel free to sprinkle additional red pepper flakes on top. -
Enjoy
Serve warm and enjoy this cheesy, savory dish. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a side, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
- Vitamin A: 15%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Casseroles have long been a staple of American cuisine. The term “casserole” itself refers to both the dish and the method of cooking, where ingredients are baked together in a single pan. While variations of the casserole can be found around the world, the American-style casserole has evolved into a comfort food classic.
The Cheese and Cottage Cheese Casserole likely grew out of the broader tradition of cheese-based dishes popular in the United States. Combining cottage cheese with other varieties like cheddar and Parmesan makes for a creamy, flavorful casserole that pairs well with breakfast or lunch. It’s a simple, affordable dish that has gained popularity because of its ease of preparation and ability to feed a crowd.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: The ingredients are easy to find and likely already in your kitchen, making this a hassle-free recipe.
- Quick Preparation: It only takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, perfect for busy mornings or evenings.
- Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning, cheese, or add extra veggies to tailor the dish to your tastes.
- Great for Meal Prep: It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal that you can prepare the night before and simply bake in the morning.
- Comforting: The cheesy, creamy texture makes it the ultimate comfort food.
Health Benefits
While this casserole is indulgent, it also provides several health benefits thanks to the ingredients used:
- Cottage Cheese: Rich in protein and low in fat, cottage cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which is vital for bone health.
- Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals, eggs are a great source of nutrients that support muscle growth and overall health.
- Cheese: Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses provide a source of protein and calcium, contributing to a balanced diet.
- Green Onions: These add flavor without extra calories, and they are also rich in antioxidants, helping to fight inflammation.
Serving Suggestions
- For Breakfast: Serve this casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a green smoothie for a well-rounded breakfast.
- As a Side Dish: Pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole.
- With Meat: Add a protein like crispy bacon, sausage, or grilled chicken to make the dish heartier and turn it into a full meal.
- For Brunch: This casserole pairs wonderfully with pastries, fresh bread, or even a mimosa to create an inviting brunch spread.
Cooking Tips
- Use Full-Fat Cottage Cheese: If you want a richer, creamier casserole, opt for full-fat cottage cheese. It will create a smoother, more indulgent texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix, as this can make the casserole dense instead of light and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness: If the top is golden but the center seems a bit jiggly, let it rest for a few minutes outside the oven—it will continue to cook as it cools.
- Make It Your Own: Try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Add in vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or tomatoes for a more veggie-packed casserole.
- Meat Lover’s Casserole: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or crumbled bacon for a heartier meal.
- Spicy Casserole: Stir in some chopped jalapeños or a few extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap the cottage cheese and cheddar for dairy-free cheese options like nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese.
Conclusion
The Cheese and Cottage Cheese Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare, and it works well for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. With its creamy texture and savory flavor, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Whether you enjoy it on its own or add your own twist, it’s a dish that will satisfy the whole family. So, gather the ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this comforting casserole!
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven to bake. -
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the cheddar or Parmesan for your favorite cheese, like mozzarella or gouda. -
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. -
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Just bake it, cool it down, and freeze it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, bake from frozen or thaw before reheating. -
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients, except for the flour. You can use a gluten-free flour substitute if necessary. -
Can I make this casserole without eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg-free version, you could try substituting eggs with a combination of silken tofu and baking powder. -
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it’s golden brown on top and firm to the touch in the center. If you’re unsure, insert a knife—if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready. -
Can I add meat to this casserole?
Yes, ground sausage, bacon, or even cooked chicken would be great additions to this casserole. -
Is this casserole high in protein?
Yes, this casserole contains a good amount of protein, primarily from the eggs, cottage cheese, and other cheeses. -
Can I serve this casserole for dinner?
Definitely! This casserole makes for a hearty and satisfying dinner when paired with a side salad or some steamed vegetables.
Enjoy creating and savoring your delicious Cheese and Cottage Cheese Casserole!