Patrick Oconnell
Making a frittata with cottage cheese is a delightful way to elevate this classic Italian dish, adding a creamy texture and extra protein to your meal. This versatile recipe combines whisked eggs, cottage cheese, and your choice of vegetables, meats, or herbs, creating a fluffy and flavorful dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The cottage cheese not only enhances the frittata’s richness but also ensures it stays moist and satisfying. With simple steps like sautéing ingredients, mixing the egg and cheese mixture, and baking or stovetop cooking, this frittata is both easy to prepare and customizable to suit any taste preference. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday meal or an impressive dish to share, a cottage cheese frittata is a nutritious and delicious option.
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What You'll Learn
- Ingredients: Eggs, cottage cheese, veggies, herbs, salt, pepper, oil or butter for cooking
- Preparation: Whisk eggs, mix in cottage cheese, chop veggies, preheat oven or skillet
- Cooking: Sauté veggies, pour egg mixture, cook on stovetop, finish in oven if needed
- Baking: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until set and golden
- Serving: Slice, garnish with herbs, serve warm or cold with sides like salad
Ingredients: Eggs, cottage cheese, veggies, herbs, salt, pepper, oil or butter for cooking
To create a delicious and hearty frittata with cottage cheese, start by gathering your ingredients: eggs, cottage cheese, a variety of veggies, fresh herbs, salt, pepper, and oil or butter for cooking. The eggs serve as the base, providing structure and richness, while the cottage cheese adds a creamy texture and extra protein. Choose vegetables that complement each other, such as spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, to add flavor, color, and nutrients. Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives will enhance the frittata with their aromatic profiles. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning, and oil or butter ensures the frittata cooks evenly without sticking to the pan.
When selecting eggs, aim for 6–8 large ones, depending on the size of your frittata and desired thickness. Whisk them thoroughly in a bowl until the yolks and whites are fully combined. Next, fold in cottage cheese, using about 1 cup for a standard-sized frittata. The cottage cheese should be gently mixed to maintain its texture, creating pockets of creaminess throughout the dish. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can lightly blend the cottage cheese before adding it to the eggs. This mixture forms the foundation of your frittata, blending richness with a lighter, fluffy quality.
The veggies you choose should be prepped according to their cooking needs. For example, chop bell peppers and zucchini into small, even pieces, halve cherry tomatoes, and sauté harder vegetables like onions or broccoli briefly before adding them to the egg mixture. This ensures they cook through without overcooking the eggs. If using leafy greens like spinach or kale, wilt them first to reduce their volume and remove excess moisture. Once prepped, gently fold the veggies into the egg and cottage cheese mixture, distributing them evenly for a balanced bite in every slice.
Herbs play a key role in elevating the flavor of your frittata. Chop fresh herbs finely and add them to the egg mixture or sprinkle them on top before baking. Herbs like dill, oregano, or thyme pair well with cottage cheese and veggies, adding depth and freshness. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper, keeping in mind that the cottage cheese already contributes some saltiness. Taste a small amount of the raw mixture (ensuring eggs are safe to consume raw in your region) to adjust seasoning if needed.
Finally, prepare your cooking fat—oil or butter—to ensure the frittata cooks perfectly. Use a non-stick skillet or oven-safe pan and heat a tablespoon of oil or butter over medium heat. Pour the egg mixture into the pan, allowing it to spread evenly. Cook on the stovetop for 2–3 minutes until the edges begin to set, then transfer the pan to a preheated oven (350°F/175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until the frittata is fully set and lightly golden on top. The choice of oil or butter will influence the flavor and browning, with butter adding a richer taste and oil providing a lighter finish. With these ingredients carefully selected and prepared, your cottage cheese frittata will be a flavorful and satisfying dish.
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Preparation: Whisk eggs, mix in cottage cheese, chop veggies, preheat oven or skillet
To begin preparing your cottage cheese frittata, start by whisking the eggs until they are well combined and slightly frothy. This step is crucial as it ensures a light and airy texture in your frittata. Use a medium-sized mixing bowl and a whisk or a fork to beat 6-8 large eggs, depending on the size of your frittata and the number of servings you need. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for best results.
Next, mix in the cottage cheese with the whisked eggs. Add about 1 cup of cottage cheese, which will contribute to the frittata's creamy texture and add a subtle tanginess. Gently fold the cottage cheese into the eggs using a spatula, being careful not to overmix, as this can cause the frittata to become dense. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper at this stage to season the egg mixture, keeping in mind that the cottage cheese already contains some salt.
While the egg and cottage cheese mixture is ready, proceed to chop the veggies you've chosen for your frittata. Popular options include bell peppers, onions, spinach, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Aim for a uniform size when chopping, around 1/4 to 1/2 inch pieces, to ensure even cooking. You'll need about 2-3 cups of chopped vegetables in total. If using leafy greens like spinach, make sure to chop them roughly and add them to the mix. This step not only adds flavor and texture but also packs your frittata with essential nutrients.
As you finish chopping the vegetables, it's time to preheat your oven or skillet. If using an oven, preheat it to 350°F (180°C) and prepare a oven-safe skillet or baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray. Alternatively, if you're cooking the frittata entirely on the stovetop, heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil or butter to coat the surface. This ensures that your frittata won't stick and promotes even cooking.
With the egg mixture, cottage cheese, and chopped veggies ready, and your oven or skillet preheating, you're now set to assemble and cook your cottage cheese frittata. The preparation steps have laid the foundation for a delicious and nutritious dish, and the next stages will involve combining the ingredients and cooking them to perfection. Remember that the key to a successful frittata lies in the preparation, so take your time to ensure each step is executed with care.
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Cooking: Sauté veggies, pour egg mixture, cook on stovetop, finish in oven if needed
To begin making a frittata with cottage cheese, start by preparing your vegetables. Chop a variety of veggies such as bell peppers, onions, spinach, and mushrooms. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a 10-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables to the skillet and sauté until they are tender and slightly caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it not only cooks the veggies but also adds depth of flavor to your frittata. Ensure the skillet is well-coated with oil to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
While the vegetables are sautéing, prepare your egg mixture. In a large bowl, whisk together 8-10 large eggs, 1 cup of cottage cheese, ¼ cup of milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the frittata, making it a delicious and nutritious addition. You can also add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill to the egg mixture for extra flavor. Whisk the ingredients until the cottage cheese is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Once the vegetables are sautéed, reduce the heat to low and pour the egg mixture over them in the skillet. Allow the eggs to cook gently on the stovetop, lifting the edges with a spatula to let the uncooked eggs flow underneath. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the frittata from sticking to the skillet. Cook the frittata on the stovetop for about 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly runny. If the frittata is browning too quickly on the bottom, reduce the heat to prevent burning.
If the top of the frittata is still runny after stovetop cooking, it's time to finish it in the oven. Preheat your broiler to high and transfer the skillet to the oven. Broil the frittata for 2-4 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. The combination of stovetop and oven cooking ensures a perfectly cooked frittata with a delicate texture and beautiful presentation. Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the frittata cool for a few minutes before slicing.
After cooking, allow the frittata to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period helps the frittata hold its shape and makes it easier to cut into neat wedges. Serve the cottage cheese frittata warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. The sautéed veggies and creamy cottage cheese create a flavorful and satisfying dish that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. With its simple preparation and versatile ingredients, this frittata is a great way to showcase the cooking technique of sautéing veggies, pouring the egg mixture, cooking on the stovetop, and finishing in the oven if needed.
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Baking: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until set and golden
Once you’ve prepared your frittata mixture with cottage cheese, vegetables, and eggs, the next crucial step is baking it to perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while your skillet or baking dish is still on the stovetop, allowing the edges of the frittata to begin setting. This ensures a smooth transition from stovetop to oven. Use an oven-safe skillet if possible, as this eliminates the need to transfer the frittata to another dish, reducing the risk of it falling apart. Once the oven is preheated, carefully place the skillet or dish on the center rack.
Baking at 350°F (175°C) is ideal for a frittata with cottage cheese, as it cooks the eggs thoroughly while keeping the cottage cheese creamy and the vegetables tender. The oven’s dry heat helps set the eggs evenly, creating a firm yet fluffy texture. Avoid using a higher temperature, as it may cause the eggs to overcook or the cottage cheese to become grainy. Instead, maintain a consistent temperature to ensure the frittata cooks uniformly.
The baking time typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your frittata and the oven’s efficiency. Start checking for doneness at the 15-minute mark by gently shaking the skillet—the frittata should be set but slightly jiggly in the center, as it will continue to cook as it cools. A golden-brown top is another indicator that it’s ready. If the top is still pale after 15 minutes, allow it to bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent overbaking.
While baking, avoid opening the oven door frequently, as this can cause temperature fluctuations and affect the cooking process. Instead, use the oven light to monitor the frittata’s progress. Once it’s set and golden, remove it from the oven and let it rest in the skillet for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the frittata to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve without it falling apart.
Finally, after resting, carefully loosen the edges of the frittata with a spatula and slide it onto a serving plate. The result should be a beautifully baked frittata with cottage cheese, boasting a golden crust and a soft, flavorful interior. This baking method ensures a dish that’s both visually appealing and delicious, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
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Serving: Slice, garnish with herbs, serve warm or cold with sides like salad
Once your cottage cheese frittata is cooked to perfection, it’s time to focus on serving it in a way that enhances its flavor and presentation. Start by allowing the frittata to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven or stovetop. This brief resting period helps it set and makes it easier to slice cleanly. Use a sharp knife to cut the frittata into wedges or squares, depending on your preference and the size of your pan. Aim for even slices to ensure each serving is consistent in size and appearance.
Next, elevate the dish by garnishing it with fresh herbs. Chopped chives, dill, parsley, or basil work wonderfully with the creamy texture of cottage cheese and the eggs. Sprinkle the herbs generously over the top of the frittata just before serving to preserve their freshness and vibrant color. A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also add a touch of sophistication and depth to the dish.
The beauty of a cottage cheese frittata is its versatility—it can be served warm or cold, making it suitable for any meal of the day. If serving warm, place the slices on a plate while they’re still slightly hot from the oven or reheated gently. The warmth will highlight the softness of the cottage cheese and the fluffiness of the eggs. For a cold presentation, allow the frittata to cool completely before slicing and arranging it on a platter. Cold frittata slices are perfect for picnics, brunch spreads, or as a grab-and-go breakfast option.
Pairing the frittata with sides like a fresh salad complements its richness and adds balance to the meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, a tangy arugula and tomato salad, or a hearty roasted vegetable medley all work well. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with crusty bread, a side of roasted potatoes, or a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. These accompaniments enhance the flavors and textures of the frittata, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dish.
Finally, consider the occasion and your guests when plating the frittata. For a casual gathering, arrange the slices on a large serving board or platter, surrounded by the chosen sides and garnishes. For a more formal setting, plate individual servings with care, ensuring each slice is neatly presented and accompanied by a small portion of salad or other sides. Whether warm or cold, the cottage cheese frittata is a versatile and delicious dish that can be tailored to suit any serving style or preference.
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Frequently asked questions
You’ll need eggs, cottage cheese, vegetables (like spinach, bell peppers, or tomatoes), cheese (such as cheddar or feta), salt, pepper, and optional herbs like parsley or chives.
Drain excess liquid from the cottage cheese before adding it to the egg mixture. You can also mix it with shredded cheese to help bind the ingredients together.
Yes, frittatas with cottage cheese can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.
