Cottage Cheese Egg Bites are a high-protein, easy-to-make breakfast or snack that’s both delicious and nutritious. Inspired by the popular Starbucks egg bites, this recipe uses cottage cheese to create a soft, fluffy texture without the need for the fancy sous-vide method. They’re perfect for meal prep, and you can customize them with a variety of mix-ins, making them a versatile option for any taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or a hearty snack, these egg bites will become a staple in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cottage Cheese Egg Bites are the ultimate combination of ease and flavor. They’re packed with protein, low in carbs, and can be customized to suit your preferences. What’s even better is that you can make them ahead of time, and they store and reheat wonderfully. Whether you want a simple breakfast or an indulgent snack, these egg bites hit the spot. Plus, they’re a hit with the whole family, especially when you allow everyone to choose their own mix-ins!
Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Egg Bites
With just three main ingredients, these egg bites come together easily. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Eggs: 8-10 large eggs (depending on how many toppings you use).
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Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese works best for this recipe, as it provides a rich, creamy texture and moisture.
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Cheese: Choose your favorite cheese for added flavor. Sharp cheddar is a great option, but you can use any cheese you prefer, like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan.
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Salt and Pepper: Adjust to taste.
Mix-ins (Optional)
These are some great add-ins to make your egg bites even more flavorful:
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Meat: Bacon, sausage, chopped ham, or chorizo (you can also use tofu for a vegetarian version).
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Veggies: Chopped spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or even zucchini.
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Cheese: Feta, Cotija, pepper jack, or gruyère.
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Spices: Taco seasoning, garlic powder, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
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Heat: Red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bites
Making Cottage Cheese Egg Bites is quick and easy. Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a non-stick muffin tin or use silicone muffin liners for easy removal.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender, combine the eggs, cottage cheese, salt, and pepper. Blend on medium speed for 1 minute until the mixture is smooth. Avoid blending on high to prevent the mixture from becoming too foamy. You can also use a food processor or an immersion blender.
Step 3: Add the Fillings
Divide the cheese and any desired mix-ins evenly into the muffin tin cups. Then pour the egg mixture into each muffin cup, filling about 3/4 full.
Step 4: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 22 minutes or until the eggs are set and the edges are lightly browned. If the tops are browning too quickly, cover the pan loosely with foil.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the egg bites cool in the tin for 5 minutes before removing. Serve immediately or store for later.
Can I Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bites in the Air Fryer?
Yes, you can make these egg bites in the air fryer! Here’s how:
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Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
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Place silicone muffin cups in the air fryer basket and cook the egg bites for 12-14 minutes, checking for doneness. If they’re browning too fast, cover them with foil.
How to Know When Egg Bites Are Done
You’ll know your egg bites are done when the tops are lightly golden and fully set. You can test by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they’re ready. You can also check with an instant-read thermometer—the eggs should reach 145°F (63°C).
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These egg bites are perfect for meal prep and storing for later use.
Make-Ahead:
You can double the recipe and store the egg bites in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool them completely before storing in an airtight container.
Freezing:
Once the egg bites are cool, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or air fryer.
Reheating:
To reheat, simply microwave the egg bites for about 30 seconds or reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes or until hot through.
Conclusion
Cottage Cheese Egg Bites are the perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack. With just a few ingredients and endless customization options, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that suits your tastes. Whether you enjoy them plain or packed with your favorite fillings, these egg bites are sure to become a staple in your weekly meal prep routine. They’re easy to make, reheat well, and are packed with protein to keep you fueled throughout the day. Enjoy these delicious bites with your favorite toppings and feel good knowing you’re starting your day with something healthy and satisfying!
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Cottage Cheese Egg Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 egg bites
Description
These Cottage Cheese Egg Bites are a high-protein, grab-and-go breakfast option that’s perfect for meal prep. Soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor, these egg bites are a great way to start your day. Enjoy them with your favorite fillings like cheese, veggies, or meats, and make mornings a breeze!
Ingredients
8-10 large eggs (depending on how many toppings you add)
1/3 cup full-fat cottage cheese (for added moisture and tenderness)
1 cup cheese (sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional Add-ins (1/2 cup to 1 cup of toppings):
Meats: Cooked bacon, sausage crumbles, ham, chorizo, or tofu
Veggies: Chopped mushrooms, spinach, onions, bell peppers, zucchini, chives, or sautéed zucchini
Spices: Taco seasoning, garlic powder, parsley, basil, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper for heat.
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease a non-stick muffin tin very well, or use a silicone muffin tin (no greasing required).
Blend the Egg Mixture:
In a blender, combine the eggs, cottage cheese, salt, and pepper. Blend on medium speed for about 1 minute. This will ensure the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no foam.
Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Divide the cheese and toppings (e.g., cooked bacon, spinach, or sautéed peppers) into the muffin tin cups. You can make a variety of egg bites by adding different fillings to each cup.
Pour the Egg Mixture:
Pour the blended egg mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full to leave room for expansion while baking.
Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake at 325°F for about 22 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the edges are lightly browned. The egg bites should be golden on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If they brown too quickly, cover the pan with foil.
Cool and Serve:
Let the egg bites cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes before removing them. Serve and enjoy your soft, fluffy egg bites!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Egg Bites in the Air Fryer:
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 300°F.
Prepare the Bites:
Place the silicone muffin cups directly into the air fryer basket.
Air Fry:
Cook the egg bites in the air fryer for 12-14 minutes, checking halfway through. Cover them with foil if they’re browning too quickly.
Notes
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips:
Make-Ahead:
These egg bites are perfect for meal prep! Double the recipe and store them in the fridge for a quick breakfast or snack throughout the week.
To Refrigerate:
Store cooled egg bites in an airtight container or a zip-top bag in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
Once the egg bites have cooled completely, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
To Reheat:
Reheat egg bites in the microwave for 30 seconds or in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Tips for the Best Egg Bites:
Customize Your Fillings: Use your favorite fillings like cheese, veggies, and meats to make the perfect combination for you.
Use Full-Fat Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese gives the egg bites their rich, creamy texture.
Adjust Egg Quantities: Reduce the number of eggs when adding more fillings to keep the texture just right.
Non-Stick Muffin Tin: For easy removal, either use a non-stick muffin tin or a silicone one.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these egg bites with a side of fruit or avocado slices for a complete breakfast.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
