Protein-Rich Spinach and Cheese Bake

Name: Protein-Rich Spinach and Cheese Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Protein-Rich Spinach and Cheese Bake because it’s an easy way to sneak in some nutritious greens while indulging in cheesy goodness. The best part is how versatile it is; you can enjoy it as a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or even a comforting dinner. What I love most is that it combines cottage cheese and cheddar for a fantastic protein punch while contributing to a satisfyingly creamy texture that both kids and adults will love. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a fresh salad on the side!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-09T16:57:27.672Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was blown away by how well the flavors came together. The mix of spinach and cheese not only creates a delicious combination but also ensures you’re getting plenty of protein and vitamins. I typically bake it until it's perfectly golden on top to achieve that delightful crust while keeping the inside creamy and rich.

One tip that truly enhances this dish is to sauté the spinach before adding it into the cheese mixture. This will not only help to reduce excess moisture but also bring out the vibrant flavors of the spinach, making your bake even more delicious and nutritious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
It’s packed with protein from cottage cheese and cheddar.
Perfectly creamy and cheesy with a hint of spinach.
A versatile dish that works for any meal of the day.

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese serves as the backbone of this recipe, providing a creamy texture and a significant protein boost. Its mild flavor allows the other ingredients, especially the cheddar cheese and spinach, to shine. When mixed with eggs, it creates a luscious custard-like base that puffs up beautifully when baked. I recommend using full-fat cottage cheese for a richer taste, but low-fat options can also work if you're looking to reduce calories.

In terms of texture, be mindful not to over-mix the cottage cheese with the eggs. You want some curds to remain intact, which adds to the dish's creamy mouthfeel. If using an alternative, drained Greek yogurt can be a fantastic substitute for cottage cheese, maintaining similar protein levels while imparting its tangy flavor.

Tips for Perfect Spinach

To ensure your spinach is perfectly wilted without being soggy, sauté it over medium heat for just about 5 minutes. You want to achieve a vibrant green color and a tender texture without losing too much moisture. If you're short on time, pre-washed and chopped bagged spinach can be a time-saver, but make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture after cooking to avoid a watery bake.

Another great option is to mix in different greens such as kale or Swiss chard for added nutrients and flavor complexity. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as tougher greens may require a few additional minutes to soften.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This Protein-Rich Spinach and Cheese Bake is incredibly versatile in its serving options. Although it shines as a standalone dish, pairing it with a fresh salad or a side of roasted tomatoes elevates the meal. Consider adding a tangy vinaigrette to your salad to balance the richness of the bake. For breakfast, serving it alongside avocado toast could make for a hearty morning start.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes will help restore its creamy texture. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped in foil, and simply bake from frozen, increasing the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.

Ingredients

For the bake

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
3 large eggs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Spinach

In a medium skillet, sauté the chopped spinach over medium heat until wilted, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

Mix Main Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooled spinach until well mixed.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to customize the flavor. Fresh parsley or dill can add an extra freshness to the dish.

Variations You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Using gouda or pepper jack instead of cheddar can give your dish a distinct flavor profile. For added richness, you might even mix in a few ounces of cream cheese, which not only complements the creamy base but also adds a luscious mouthfeel.

Herbs and spices can bring fresh dimensions to your bake. I love adding freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil into the mixture for an herbal lift. Experiment with spices such as smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a hint of warmth and depth. Adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers can elevate the flavor even further, making it even more intriguing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bake turns out too watery, it might be due to excess moisture in the spinach or cottage cheese. Ensure you thoroughly drain both to prevent this. If you find the top isn’t browning as desired, consider broiling for a minute or two at the end of the baking time, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Overcooking can easily dry out your bake, so keep a close eye on the time. You want the center to be firm yet slightly jiggle; it will continue to set as it cools. To check for doneness, inserting a toothpick in the center should come out mostly clean but with a few moist crumbs.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're cooking for a crowd, this recipe scales beautifully. Just double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Make sure to adjust the baking time, as a thicker layer may require an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the top, looking for that golden brown hue.

Conversely, if you're cooking just for one or two, consider halving the recipe and using an 8x8 inch baking dish. Bake time may decrease by a few minutes, so keep watching for those signs of doneness to ensure your meal is just right.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain the excess water before adding it to the mixture.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just ensure your cheese choices are gluten-free.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the bake?

Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini would be great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.