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Cheese Bake – Easy Protein-Packed Dinner Recipe

Cheese Bake – Easy Protein-Packed Dinner Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 7 reviews

This Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is an easy, protein-packed dinner perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Combining creamy cottage cheese with melted mozzarella, turkey pepperoni, and Italian seasonings, this bake satisfies pizza cravings in a healthier way with simple ingredients and minimal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup mini turkey pepperoni slices
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Mix base ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy base for the bake.
  3. Add cheeses and seasonings: Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, most of the mini turkey pepperoni slices (save a few for topping), grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to distribute flavors evenly.
  4. Assemble the bake: Pour the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining mini turkey pepperoni slices on top for added texture and appearance.
  5. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the mixture is set, the cheese is bubbly, and the top is golden brown, indicating it is perfectly cooked.
  6. Cool and serve: Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes to firm up, then slice and serve warm. For an extra touch, offer a side of marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the pizza flavor experience.

Notes

  • Use low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese based on your dietary preference.
  • The turkey pepperoni adds a leaner protein option compared to traditional pepperoni.
  • Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the pepperoni and add extra vegetables or substitute with vegetarian pepperoni.

Nutrition

Keywords: cottage cheese bake, protein-packed dinner, turkey pepperoni bake, easy baked casserole, low-fat pizza bake

Find it online: https://tastemadebyclara.com/cheese-bake-easy-protein-packed-dinner-recipe/