Veggie Bake is the perfect solution when you want a wholesome, filling dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. This high protein casserole blends creamy cottage cheese with colorful vegetables and baked eggs for a satisfying texture and rich flavor. Because it comes together quickly and bakes in under 40 minutes, Veggie Bake works beautifully for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a light vegetarian lunch. If you enjoy hearty, nourishing comfort food that still feels fresh and balanced, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Story
I started making Veggie Bake on nights when I needed something simple yet nourishing. After experimenting with different vegetable combinations and protein sources, I discovered that cottage cheese created the most tender, flavorful texture. Since then, this Veggie Bake has become one of my favorite reliable dinners. It delivers everything I want in a casserole: structure, flavor, and ease.
What makes this Veggie Bake special is its balance. The vegetables stay vibrant, the eggs bind everything together, and the cottage cheese melts into creamy pockets throughout the dish. As a vegetarian recipe, it still feels hearty because it packs serious protein from both eggs and dairy. In fact, this version doubles as a high protein meal that keeps you full for hours.
Whenever I prepare this Veggie Bake, I appreciate how flexible it feels. You can adjust vegetables based on the season, yet the base remains dependable. Whether you serve it for dinner or portion it for meal prep, this Veggie Bake delivers consistent results every time.
Ingredients
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1 cup cottage cheese
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1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
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1 cup bell pepper, diced
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1 cup zucchini, sliced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/2 cup spinach, chopped
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1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
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1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 large eggs
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
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Cooking spray or additional olive oil for greasing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
First, preheat your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil so the Veggie Bake releases easily after cooking. Then, chop all vegetables into evenly sized pieces to promote even baking. Smaller, consistent cuts help the vegetables cook thoroughly without turning mushy.
Next, place the cottage cheese, broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and red onion into a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano until fully combined. Once mixed, pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and stir well so everything coats evenly.
Cooking Instructions
After mixing, transfer the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Then sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly across the top. Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The top should turn lightly golden, and the center should feel set when gently pressed.
Once baked, remove the Veggie Bake from the oven and allow it to rest for five minutes. This brief resting period helps it firm up, which makes slicing much easier. After resting, slice and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Results
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid cutting vegetables too large because oversized pieces may remain undercooked. Also, do not skip greasing the dish since eggs can stick firmly during baking. Another common mistake involves overbaking. If you leave the Veggie Bake in too long, the texture may become rubbery rather than tender. Check the center at the 30-minute mark to prevent this issue.
Pro Tips for Better Flavor
For deeper flavor, sauté the onions briefly before mixing them in. Additionally, fresh herbs such as parsley or basil sprinkled on top right before serving add brightness and aroma. If you enjoy a sharper finish, add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan along with the mozzarella. Because this is a high protein base, you can also add mushrooms or asparagus without changing the structure of the dish.
Serving and Storage
How to Serve
Serve Veggie Bake warm as a standalone dinner or pair it with a crisp green salad for a balanced plate. It also works beautifully alongside roasted potatoes or whole grain toast. Since it slices cleanly after resting, you can present it in neat squares for brunch gatherings or family dinners.
How to Store Leftovers
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for about one to two minutes or warm them in a 350°F oven until heated through. Because this dish holds its texture well, it makes an excellent meal prep option for busy weeks.
Conclusion
This Veggie Bake proves that simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying meal. With creamy cottage cheese, vibrant vegetables, and balanced seasoning, it offers comfort without heaviness. Whether you prepare it for a weeknight dinner or portion it for meal prep, this recipe delivers dependable flavor and nourishing ingredients in every bite.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Veggie Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Veggie Bake one day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it goes into the oven cold.
Can I freeze Veggie Bake?
You can freeze it after baking and cooling completely. Wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
How do I increase the protein even more?
To raise the protein content, add an extra egg or mix in a small amount of Greek yogurt with the cottage cheese. Both options keep the texture creamy while boosting nutrition.
Print
Veggie Bake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This high-protein Veggie Bake combines creamy cottage cheese with vibrant vegetables and baked eggs for a satisfying and nutritious vegetarian casserole.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Cooking spray or additional olive oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish.
- Combine cottage cheese, broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and red onion in a large bowl.
- Whisk eggs, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and oregano in a separate bowl.
- Pour egg mixture over vegetables and stir until evenly combined.
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and set in the center.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Can be prepared one day ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Substitute or add vegetables like mushrooms or asparagus as desired.
- Great for meal prep and easy reheating.
- Sprinkle fresh herbs before serving for added flavor.
- Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 95mg