If you’re looking for a nourishing and delightful way to start your day, this Easy Spinach and Cottage Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a total winner. Bringing together fluffy eggs, creamy cottage cheese, gooey mozzarella, and vibrant spinach, this casserole is a comforting morning treat that feels homemade yet demands minimal effort. Whether you’re fueling a busy morning or feeding a crowd, this dish balances hearty textures and fresh flavors in every bite. Trust me, once you try it, this casserole will be a frequent star in your breakfast rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple ingredients you likely have on hand, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor profile. The fresh spinach adds a beautiful green pop and nutrients, while the cheeses bring creamy richness and satisfying melty goodness.
- 6 large eggs: The base of your casserole, giving it structure and fluffiness.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Adds moisture and a pleasant tang that keeps the casserole tender.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that irresistible gooey, melty texture and mild flavor.
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach: Brings freshness, color, and a subtle earthiness; you can also use thawed and drained frozen spinach.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle aromatic depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle savory background note.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without making the dish salty.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Lends a mild heat and complexity.
How to Make Easy Spinach and Cottage Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by warming your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-by-9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to ensure your casserole releases easily after baking. This small step saves you from any sticky situations later!
Step 2: Whisk Together the Base Mixture
In a large bowl, beat the eggs until they’re well combined and slightly frothy. Add the cottage cheese and shredded mozzarella, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture looks uniform and creamy—this creates a smooth, flavorful custard base that will bake beautifully.
Step 3: Fold in the Spinach
Gently stir in your chopped fresh spinach, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the egg and cheese combination. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid any excess liquid that might make the casserole soggy.
Step 4: Pour and Spread the Mixture in the Dish
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly so it bakes uniformly and looks inviting when it comes out of the oven.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a lovely light golden brown and the center is firmly set, not jiggly. This step ensures the perfect balance between fluffy and creamy textures.
Step 6: Let it Cool and Slice
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes once it’s out of the oven. This resting time lets it set further, making slicing easier and cleaner. Serve it warm or at room temperature—you really can’t go wrong here.
How to Serve Easy Spinach and Cottage Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh touch like chopped chives or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate your casserole beautifully. For a little extra indulgence, a few dollops of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce perfectly complement the mild flavors.
Side Dishes
This breakfast casserole pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides such as fresh fruit salad or sliced tomatoes with a dash of balsamic. For a fuller meal, toast on the side or a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette make excellent companions.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests or want a fancier touch, cut the casserole into neat squares and stack them on a colorful platter. Top each square with a sprig of fresh herb like dill or parsley. You can even portion it into muffin tins before baking for individual servings that look as cute as they taste!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, making it a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack option during a busy week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes surprisingly well. Wrap individual portions tightly with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing much of its delicious texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your frozen or refrigerated casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave single portions on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking to avoid overheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella provides a mild, melty texture, you can swap it out for cheddar or Monterey Jack for a sharper flavor, or even a bit of feta for a tangy twist. Just ensure to keep the total cheese quantity the same to maintain texture.
Is fresh spinach better than frozen for this recipe?
Fresh spinach offers a brighter color and a slightly crisp texture, but frozen spinach works just fine as long as you thaw and drain it well so the casserole isn’t watery.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some finely chopped zucchini make great additions. Just make sure to sauté any veggies that release moisture beforehand to keep the casserole from getting soggy.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s an excellent meal prep choice. You can make it ahead, refrigerate or freeze, and enjoy ready-made breakfasts throughout the week, saving precious time on busy mornings.
What if I don’t have parchment paper for the baking dish?
No worries! Lightly greasing the dish with butter or non-stick spray works just as well to prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Spinach and Cottage Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that strikes the perfect balance between simple and special. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, quick to prepare, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group, it’s a warm and satisfying way to start the day. I hope you love it as much as I do — happy baking!
Print
Easy Spinach and Cottage Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious and nutritious breakfast casserole featuring spinach and cottage cheese, perfectly baked for a light yet satisfying start to your day. This easy recipe combines eggs, creamy cottage cheese, mozzarella, and fresh spinach seasoned with garlic and onion powder, creating a flavorful and wholesome dish suitable for busy mornings.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Vegetables
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach (or thawed and drained frozen spinach)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach evenly into the egg and cheese mixture.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly across the dish.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is fully set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature as a nutritious breakfast option.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
- For added flavor, consider adding herbs like parsley or basil to the mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
- This casserole can be portioned into smaller servings for meal prepping.
