Save to Pinterest The winter I discovered this recipe was during a particularly chaotic month of work deadlines and gym sessions. I'd been eating the same boring chicken and broccoli for weeks when my sister dropped off a container of this spinach bake. One forkful and I was plotting how to recreate it. The way the salty feta plays against the mild cottage cheese somehow transforms into something that tastes like comfort food but fits perfectly into my macro goals.
My roommate walked in while I was mixing everything together and made a face at the cottage cheese container. I just kept stirring and told her to trust the process. Later that evening she stole a second slice from the fridge and admitted she was wrong about the cottage cheese situation. Now she texts me from the grocery store asking if I need more spinach.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese: The secret protein powerhouse that creates this incredible creamy texture when baked
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Brings that salty tang that cuts through the mildness
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty richness on top
- 3 large eggs: The binder that holds everything together into sliceable squares
- 1 cup frozen chopped spinach: Thaw and squeeze it dry like you mean it
- 1 cup artichoke hearts: Jarred ones work perfectly fine here
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced fresh makes a difference
- Salt and pepper: Your only seasonings but honestly enough
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 350F and grease a 9x9 baking dish with a little butter or oil
- Mix everything together:
- Dump the cottage cheese eggs spinach artichokes both cheeses and garlic into a big bowl then stir until combined
- Season it right:
- Add salt and pepper to taste then give it one more stir
- Spread and bake:
- Pour into your prepared dish and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and set in the center
- The waiting game:
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing or it will fall apart
Save to Pinterest This became my go-to meal prep Sunday staple after I realized it actually tastes better cold the next day. Theres something satisfying about opening the fridge Monday morning and seeing neat little squares ready to grab.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I throw in a handful of chopped fresh herbs at the end if my window box basil is growing wild. A pinch of red pepper flakes wakes everything up without overpowering the delicate artichoke flavor.
The Freezer Secret
This recipe doubles beautifully and freezes like a dream. I wrap individual portions in parchment paper then foil and suddenly I have emergency lunches for weeks. The texture holds up surprisingly well after reheating.
Serving Ideas
A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. Ive also served this alongside roasted chicken or crumbled it over scrambled eggs for breakfast.
- Try it with a dollop of Greek yogurt on top
- Fresh tomatoes on the side cut through the creaminess
- It works as a filling for omelets too
Save to Pinterest This bake has saved me from ordering takeout more times than I care to admit. Sometimes the simplest recipes end up being the ones that stick around longest.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, absolutely. Sauté about 6 cups of fresh spinach until it's wilted, then ensure you drain and squeeze out all excess moisture before adding it to the mixture.
- → How do I ensure the bake isn't watery?
To prevent a watery consistency, it's crucial to thoroughly drain both the cottage cheese and the thawed spinach. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the spinach to maintain the desired texture.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
This bake is excellent for meal prep. You can store individual portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months, making it a convenient option.
- → What can I add for extra flavor?
For an added kick, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes into the mixture. A handful of chopped fresh herbs, such as chives, dill, or parsley, would also brighten the overall flavors of the dish.
- → Can I substitute other cheeses?
While the original blend of cottage cheese, feta, and Parmesan provides a unique flavor, you can experiment. A touch of cream cheese or goat cheese could add a different dimension to the creaminess and tang, but ensure proper ratios.
- → How can I tell when the bake is perfectly cooked?
The bake is ready when the top achieves a beautiful golden-brown color and the center appears set and firm when gently jiggled. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating it's thoroughly cooked.