These Cottage Cheese Egg Bites are a tasty and healthy snack! Packed with protein, they are fluffy and can be flavored with your favorite herbs or veggies.
I love making them for breakfast or as a quick snack. You can bake a big batch and keep them in the fridge—perfect for busy days! 🥚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are crucial for a fluffy texture. If you’re short on eggs, you can use egg whites to reduce fat while still packing in protein.
Cottage Cheese: I recommend using small curd cottage cheese for smoother bites, but you can use large curd or even ricotta if you prefer a different texture.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice flavor, but feel free to swap it with mozzarella, pepper jack, or any cheese you love. Just keep in mind that flavors will change a bit.
Milk or Cream: Milk makes it lighter; cream adds richness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk works well too.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder enhance the flavor. Don’t hesitate to use fresh garlic or onion instead, just remember to adjust the amounts to taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Egg Bites?
The blending step is key for achieving a smooth, airy texture in your egg bites. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Blend your liquids and cottage cheese first until smooth before adding the eggs. This ensures there are no lumps.
- Blend everything together on high for about 30 seconds. The goal is to incorporate air into the mixture which helps it puff up in the oven.
- Don’t overfill the muffin cups; leaving some space allows the egg bites to rise without spilling over.
Also, be sure to let them cool slightly in the pan after baking. This helps them set and makes removing them easier.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Egg Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably small curd)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
For Greasing:
- Non-stick spray or butter (for greasing the muffin tin)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’ll spend around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Once they’re ready, let them cool before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, take a muffin tin and lightly grease it with non-stick spray or butter. This will help the egg bites come out easily after baking.
2. Blend the Egg Mixture:
In a blender or food processor, combine the eggs, cottage cheese, shredded cheese, milk (or cream), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and well mixed. This step is important for getting fluffy egg bites!
3. Fill the Muffin Cups:
Once blended, pour the egg mixture evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Leave some space for them to rise as they bake.
4. Add a Kick (Optional):
If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of each egg bite. This adds a nice touch!
5. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when they’re puffed up and set in the center.
6. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the egg bites cool in the tin for a few minutes. This makes them easier to take out. If needed, run a small knife around the edges to help release them from the tin.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Carefully remove the egg bites from the tin and place them on a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them warm as a nutritious breakfast or snack!
Enjoy your fluffy, protein-packed Cottage Cheese Egg Bites!
Can I Use Egg Substitutes in This Recipe?
Yes! You can use egg substitutes if you’re looking for a lower cholesterol option. For every egg, you can replace it with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a product like flaxseed mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). Just keep in mind the flavor and texture may vary.
Can I Make These Egg Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good blend again before pouring it into the muffin tin. They also store well after baking, so you can prep a batch for quick breakfasts throughout the week!
How Do I Store Leftover Egg Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for about 30-60 seconds or warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
What Can I Add to Customize My Egg Bites?
You can add a variety of ingredients to suit your taste! Consider diced bell peppers, spinach, cooked bacon, or any other vegetables or meats you like. Just remember to keep the overall volume similar to ensure the mixture cooks evenly.
