Ingredients

• For the Pumpkin Base:
  • 1/2 medium pumpkin (about 400-500 g), peeled and diced
  • 450 g cottage cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons semolina
  • 150 g sour cream
  • 100 g dried cranberries (optional for sweetness)
• For the Garlic Mixture:
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 30 g butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
• For the Topping:
  • 150 g cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella), grated
  • Flour, for dusting the baking dish
  • Oil, for greasing the baking dish

Steps on How to Make Savory Pumpkin and Cottage Cheese Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your dish bakes evenly.
2. Cook the Pumpkin: In a pot, add the diced pumpkin and cover it with water. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender. Alternatively, you can steam the pumpkin to retain more nutrients.
3. Drain and Mash: Once cooked, drain the pumpkin and let it cool slightly. Then, mash the pumpkin until it is smooth. You can use a potato masher or a food processor for this step.

Step 2: Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed pumpkin, cottage cheese, egg, cinnamon, salt, sugar, and semolina. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Add Dried Cranberries: If using, fold in the dried cranberries. They add a nice sweet-tart contrast to the savory dish.
3. Add Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream for added creaminess. Mix until you have a smooth consistency.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Mixture

1. Sauté Garlic: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Season: Season the garlic with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

1. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with oil and lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking. This will help achieve a nice golden crust.
2. Layer the Mixture: Pour the pumpkin and cottage cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
3. Add Garlic Mixture: Drizzle the sautéed garlic mixture over the pumpkin base, spreading it evenly.
4. Top with Cheese: Finally, sprinkle the grated cheese generously over the top of the mixture. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
2. Cool: Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)

(Assuming 6 servings)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 12 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 300 mg

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen pumpkin?
Yes, you can use frozen pumpkin. Just thaw and drain any excess water before mashing.

2. What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
You can use ricotta cheese or even Greek yogurt for a different texture and flavor.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrients.

Tips for Making the Perfect Bake

1. Pumpkin Preparation: Make sure to remove all seeds and stringy bits from the pumpkin to achieve a smooth texture.
2. Taste the Mixture: Before baking, taste the mixture to adjust seasoning. Feel free to add more cinnamon or sugar based on your preference.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs or additional spices can enhance the flavor profile. Consider adding nutmeg or fresh parsley for a different twist.
4. Watch the Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the bake as it approaches the 30-minute mark. You want a golden top but be careful not to overbake.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pumpkin bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the bake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It should be good for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

This Savory Pumpkin and Cottage Cheese Bake is a delightful dish that combines flavors and textures beautifully. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of pumpkin while indulging in the creamy goodness of cottage cheese and cheese. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this bake will impress your family and friends. It’s also a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go throughout the week. Try this recipe today, and savor the comforting flavors of fall!