These Spinach Egg Bites are a delightful, protein-packed breakfast or snack that’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. They’re creamy, cheesy, and filled with nutritious spinach and scallions, making them a healthy and satisfying option for any time of day.
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes
Total Time: 45 Minutes
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1¼ cups (4% milkfat) cottage cheese
- 1¼ cups shredded Gruyère (or a blend of Gruyère and Cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Scant ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 oz baby spinach leaves, or ⅔ cup (packed), finely chopped
- 2 scallions, dark green parts only, finely chopped
Directions
- Bring a kettle of water to a boil. Preheat the oven to 300°F and set one oven rack in the middle position and another in the lowest position.
- Place a 9×13-inch metal or ceramic baking dish on the lower rack and fill it halfway with the boiling water from the kettle. This will create steam in the oven, which will help the egg bites to cook gently and attain a custardy texture.
- Spray a nonstick muffin pan generously with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a blender, combine the eggs, cottage cheese, Gruyère, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Blend until completely smooth, about 30 seconds.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly into the prepared muffin pan, filling each well about three-quarters full. Sprinkle the spinach and scallions evenly over the batter. Use a spoon to press the greens into the batter so they are not all floating on top.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes on the middle rack, until the eggs are set. You’ll know they are done when the egg bites start to pull away slightly from the edges. Some of the egg bites may also puff up and look a bit lopsided, but they will settle and deflate as they cool.
- Remove the egg bites from the oven and let rest in the pan for about 5 minutes. Use a small spoon to loosen the egg bites from the edges of the pan and carefully lift them out onto a plate. Serve warm.
Make-Ahead/Freezer-Friendly Instructions: Once cool, the egg bites can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave at 50% power for 60 to 90 seconds. The egg bites can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat using the microwave.
Note: I don’t recommend using a silicone muffin tin for this recipe; the egg bites will take longer to set and may cook unevenly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with whole-grain toast for a hearty breakfast.
- Enjoy as a protein-packed snack on-the-go.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the eggs and cottage cheese are blended until completely smooth for the best texture.
- Press the spinach and scallions into the batter to prevent them from floating on top and burning.
- Be cautious not to overfill the muffin pan to avoid overflow during baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein from the eggs and cottage cheese, which helps keep you full and satisfied.
- Spinach adds a boost of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber.
- Gruyère cheese provides a rich source of calcium and flavor.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free.
- Contains dairy and eggs.
- Suitable for a low-carb diet.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- These egg bites are incredibly easy to make and perfect for meal prep.
- They are versatile and can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or a snack.
- The combination of creamy eggs, cheese, and fresh spinach is both delicious and nutritious.
Conclusion
These Spinach Egg Bites are a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. They are quick to prepare, easy to store, and packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you need a convenient breakfast option or a protein-rich snack, these egg bites are sure to satisfy. Enjoy the blend of creamy cheese and fresh spinach in every bite