Description
Pumpkin and Cottage Cheese Casserole is a wholesome and delicious dish that brings together the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the creamy texture of cottage cheese. This recipe, enhanced with the warmth of cinnamon, the tartness of dried cranberries, and the richness of cheese, creates a flavorful combination that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. The dish is also high in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option that can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you are looking for a comforting autumn meal or something unique for a special occasion, this casserole is a perfect choice.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1/2 medium pumpkin (about 400–500 g), peeled and diced
- 450 g cottage cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons semolina
- 150 g sour cream
- 100 g dried cranberries
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 30 grams butter
- 150 g cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or any other of your choice), grated
- Flour, for dusting the baking dish
- Oil, for greasing the baking dish
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the pumpkin: Peel and dice the pumpkin into small cubes. Steam or boil the pumpkin for about 15-20 minutes until tender, then drain and set aside.
- Mash the pumpkin: Once the pumpkin has cooled slightly, mash it into a smooth consistency using a fork or a potato masher. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend it.
Step 2: Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, cinnamon, salt, sugar, and semolina. Mix well until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the cranberries: Add the dried cranberries to the mixture, stirring them in evenly to distribute their tart flavor throughout the casserole.
- Add sour cream: Stir in the sour cream to add creaminess to the dish, which will also help balance the flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
- Sauté the garlic: In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this could give the dish a bitter taste.
- Season: Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to the garlic mixture, stirring well. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease a baking dish with oil and lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
- Layer the casserole: Pour the mashed pumpkin into the cottage cheese mixture, and stir until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle the garlic butter: Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will infuse the dish with a rich, savory flavor.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese generously over the casserole, creating a rich, golden layer when baked.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Cool slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15mins
- Cook Time: 45mins