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Savory Cottage Cheese Egg Muffins - Easy, Protein-Packed Breakfast Bites

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Large eggs: 8 to 10, depending on muffin tin size.
  • Cottage cheese: 1 cup, small-curd preferred; 2% or full-fat both work.
  • Shredded cheese: 1/2 cup (cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend).
  • Vegetables: About 1 to 1 1/2 cups total, finely chopped (bell pepper, baby spinach, broccoli, onion, mushroom, zucchini).
  • Cooked protein (optional): 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon, ham, or breakfast sausage.
  • Fresh herbs: 2 to 3 tablespoons chopped (chives, parsley, dill, or basil).
  • Seasoning: 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, pinch of red pepper flakes (optional).
  • Olive oil or butter: 1 teaspoon for sautéing veggies, if needed.
  • Nonstick spray or muffin liners: For the tin.

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven and pan: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 12-cup muffin tin well or use silicone liners to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the veggies (if needed): If using watery vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, sauté them in a little oil over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes to soften and release moisture. Let cool slightly.
  3. Whisk the base: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, cottage cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes until smooth. For extra-smooth texture, blend the eggs and cottage cheese in a blender for 10 to 15 seconds.
  4. Add mix-ins: Stir in shredded cheese, chopped herbs, cooled vegetables, and any cooked meats. Mix gently to distribute evenly.
  5. Fill the cups: Divide the mixture among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Stir the bowl between pours so the solids don’t settle.
  6. Bake: Bake 18 to 22 minutes, until the centers are set and a toothpick comes out clean. The muffins will puff up and then settle slightly as they cool.
  7. Rest and release: Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then run a thin knife around the edges to loosen. Transfer to a rack to finish cooling.
  8. Serve: Enjoy warm, or cool completely for storage. A sprinkle of extra herbs or hot sauce on top is great.