Creamy Cottage Cheese Spinach Bites

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These delightful egg bites are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them the perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack. The combination of creamy cottage cheese, tangy Gruyère, and a touch of spice from the hot sauce ensures each bite is savory and satisfying. Plus, with the added spinach and scallions, you’re sneaking in some greens without sacrificing taste.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1¼ cups (300g) cottage cheese
  • 1¼ cups (140g) shredded Gruyère (or a blend of Gruyère, Cheddar, or Monterey Jack)
  • 2 tablespoons (16g) cornstarch
  • Scant ½ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1 oz (30g) baby spinach leaves, or ⅔ cup (packed), finely chopped
  • 2 scallions, dark green parts only, finely chopped

Directions:

1. Prepare the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  • Boil water in a kettle. Place a 9×13-inch baking dish on the lower oven rack, then fill it halfway with the boiling water. This will create steam in the oven, helping the egg bites stay tender and moist.

2. Prepare the Muffin Pan:

  • Generously spray a nonstick muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray. This will ensure the egg bites don’t stick and are easy to remove.

3. Blend the Egg Mixture:

  • In a blender, combine the eggs, cottage cheese, shredded Gruyère (or your chosen cheese blend), cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and hot sauce. Blend the mixture until it’s completely smooth, about 30 seconds. This step ensures a creamy and uniform texture in your egg bites.

4. Fill the Muffin Pan:

  • Pour the egg mixture evenly into the prepared muffin pan, filling each well about three-quarters full. This allows room for the egg bites to puff up slightly as they bake.
  • Evenly sprinkle the chopped spinach and scallions over the batter in each well. Press them down gently with a spoon so they’re incorporated into the egg mixture.

5. Bake:

  • Place the muffin pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven.
  • Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and begin to pull away slightly from the edges of the muffin wells.

6. Cool and Serve:

  • Once baked, let the egg bites rest in the pan for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up and makes them easier to remove.
  • Use a small spoon to carefully loosen each egg bite from the pan, then lift them out onto a plate.
  • Serve the egg bites warm. They’re perfect as they are, or you can pair them with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Egg Bites:

  • Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends. Gruyère adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor, but Cheddar or Monterey Jack can add a sharper or milder taste, respectively.
  • Add-Ins: Customize your egg bites by adding other finely chopped vegetables, cooked bacon, or sausage. Just ensure any additional ingredients are cooked and drained of excess moisture before adding to the egg mixture.
  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
  • Freezing: These egg bites freeze well too! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the microwave.

Possible Questions:

  • Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs? Yes, you can substitute the eggs with egg whites for a lower-calorie option. Use about 1½ cups of egg whites in place of the whole eggs.
  • What if I don’t have a nonstick muffin pan? You can use silicone muffin cups or line a regular muffin pan with parchment paper liners for easy removal.
  • Can I make these egg bites in advance? Absolutely! These egg bites are perfect for meal prepping. Make a batch at the start of the week and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick, easy meals.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Egg Bite):

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 1g

Conclusion:

These Egg Bites are a versatile and nutritious option that can be enjoyed any time of day. With their rich, cheesy flavor and the freshness of spinach and scallions, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for breakfast on the go, a light lunch, or even a snack, they’re as convenient as they are delicious.

 

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