These Easy Muffin Tin Cottage Cheese Egg Bites are a fun and healthy breakfast option! Packed with protein and delicious flavors, they’re great for busy mornings or snacks.
Honestly, they’re like mini frittatas! I love popping them in my mouth—perfect for a quick bite. Plus, they are super easy to make—just mix, pour, and bake!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are key for the best texture. If you’re vegan or avoiding eggs, try using a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tbsp seeds with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) to keep it similar.
Cottage Cheese: This ingredient adds creaminess and protein. If you don’t like cottage cheese, you can use Greek yogurt or silken tofu as a substitute for a different taste and texture.
Bell Peppers: Any color works—red, yellow, or green! They add great flavor and color. You can swap them with diced zucchini or mushrooms if you prefer.
Spinach: Fresh chopped spinach adds nutrients and color. Frozen spinach is a great alternative; just thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella cheese adds richness. I enjoy using a mix of both! For a non-dairy option, try using vegan cheese shreds.
How Do I Ensure the Egg Bites Come Out Perfectly Set?
Getting the right texture for these egg bites can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat your oven properly—landing at 350°F (175°C) is crucial for even cooking.
- Don’t skip greasing the muffin tin, even if you use silicone cups. This helps in releasing them easily.
- Whisk the eggs and cottage cheese until totally blended; this makes a smoother mix.
- Fill each cup only three-quarters full to allow the mixture to rise without spilling over.
- Check for doneness around the 20-minute mark. If a toothpick comes out clean, they’re ready, and a slight golden color indicates they are perfectly baked.
How to Make Easy Muffin Tin Cottage Cheese Egg Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Egg Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthy snack or breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a muffin tin with non-stick spray or line it with silicone muffin cups to make sure your egg bites come out easily after baking.
2. Mix the Eggs and Cottage Cheese:
In a large bowl, crack the 6 eggs and add the 1 cup of cottage cheese. Use a whisk to blend them together until they are well combined, creating a smooth egg mixture that will be the base of your bites.
3. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings:
Now, it’s time to get colorful! Add the diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, and sliced green onions to the egg mixture. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. If you love cheesy goodness, fold in the shredded cheese at this stage.
4. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Take your egg mixture and carefully pour it into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. This gives the egg bites room to rise without overflowing while they bake.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re done when they are set (not jiggly) and lightly golden on top. You can check by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
6. Let Them Cool:
Once baked, take the egg bites out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This makes them easier to remove from the muffin tin without breaking apart.
7. Serve and Store:
Enjoy your egg bites warm right away, or let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to eat them later, just reheat them in the microwave—easy as that!
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious cottage cheese egg bites!
Can I Substitute the Cottage Cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly, so choose a substitute based on your taste preference.
What Can I Use Instead of Bell Peppers?
Feel free to use any vegetables you like! Zucchini, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes work great. Just make sure to chop them finely and, if needed, sauté them slightly to reduce moisture before adding them to the egg mixture.
How Do I Store Leftover Egg Bites?
Store your egg bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will keep well for about 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make These Egg Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! These egg bites are perfect for meal prep. You can make them over the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week. Just reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds before eating for a quick and nutritious breakfast or snack.
