Broccoli Cottage Cheese Bake

Broccoli Cottage Cheese Bake is a simple, cozy dish that turns everyday ingredients into a creamy, family-friendly casserole. It works as a weeknight main, a potluck side, or a make-ahead meal for busy days.

Comforting reasons to try this broccoli casserole

I love this recipe because it feels like home. It pairs tender broccoli with tangy cottage cheese and melty cheddar for a balanced bite. The dish suits cooler months but fits any season when you want something homey and quick. You can serve it with a fresh salad or spoon it over rice. For a lighter side that uses cottage cheese in new ways, try this cottage cheese chicken soup for another weeknight option.

What makes this Broccoli Cottage Cheese Bake so appealing

Warm, familiar flavors with common pantry items give this bake true comfort. A handful of staples broccoli, cottage cheese, eggs, and cheese combine into a creamy, savory dish that smells like Sunday dinner.

Fast prep keeps it practical. Blanch the broccoli, mix the filling, and bake. That short process makes it reliable for busy families and for cooks who want outcomes without fuss.

Ingredients and helpful substitutions

Below is what you need and a few swaps to match diets or what’s in your fridge.

Ingredients you’ll gather

• 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head), trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese (small or regular curds)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
• 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs or panko
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (or 1 tsp onion powder)
• 1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/4 tsp garlic powder)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Dietary swaps that work

• For a lower-fat version, use low-fat cottage cheese and reduce the cheddar to 1/2 cup.
• To make it gluten-free, swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal.
• For a vegetarian boost of flavor, stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a few chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
• If you want a dairy-free option, use a firm tofu blended with a splash of plant milk and a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Small variation you can try (optional)

Stir in 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or rice for a heartier bake. You can also mix in chopped bell pepper or cooked mushrooms for extra texture.

How to make your Broccoli Cottage Cheese Bake

Follow these clear steps for a creamy, well-set casserole.

Step-by-step cooking directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or similar baking dish.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch broccoli for 1–2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and shock in cold water. Pat dry.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs. Add cottage cheese, 3/4 cup shredded cheddar, Parmesan (if using), chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Fold in the drained broccoli.
4. Transfer mixture to the prepared dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and the remaining cheddar over the top. Drizzle melted butter or olive oil over crumbs.
5. Bake 20–25 minutes, until the center sets and the top turns golden. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Step	Details
1	Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
2	Blanch broccoli 1–2 minutes, then cool and drain well.
3	Mix cottage cheese, eggs, most cheddar, and seasonings. Fold in broccoli.
4	Bake 20–25 minutes until set and golden on top.

Texture, timing, and tools tips

• Use a fine colander or clean towel to press excess water from blanched broccoli. Too much water thins the filling.
• A food processor can smooth cottage cheese if you prefer a creamier texture.
• If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 5–10 minutes.
• A 9×9-inch dish gives a thicker bake; a larger dish yields a shallower set.

For a crunchy twist, sprinkle crushed seasoned crackers or toasted almonds on top before baking. If you enjoy cottage cheese snacks, you might like these cottage cheese chips as a side or topping idea.

Keeping, reheating, and serving leftovers

How to keep it fresh

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer keeping, freeze in a shallow dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating without losing flavor

Reheat single servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring once. For best texture, warm the whole dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes until heated through. Add a few minutes under the broiler to revive a crisp top.

You’ll want to make it again

This bake reheats well and works as an easy meal base. Serve it beside roasted chicken, a grain bowl, or a fresh green salad. For a different cottage cheese idea, check this creamy daisy cottage cheese recipe for simple serving ideas.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this bake?

Yes. Thaw and drain frozen broccoli thoroughly. Press out extra moisture with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel before mixing to avoid a watery casserole.

Can I prepare this ahead of time and bake later?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time if the dish is cold from the fridge.

Is cottage cheese a good substitute for ricotta in casseroles?

Yes. Cottage cheese offers a similar creamy texture and a bit more tang. If you prefer a smoother feel, pulse the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor before mixing.

How do I get a golden, crunchy top without drying the filling?

Use a thin layer of melted butter over the breadcrumbs or add a small amount of olive oil. If the top browns too fast, cover loosely with foil while the center finishes setting. For extra crunch, add panko mixed with a little Parmesan.

For a sweet finish after this savory dish, try a no-bake dessert like these no-bake turtle cheesecakes.

Final Thoughts

If you want a classic broccoli-and-cheese casserole with a lighter twist, this Broccoli Cottage Cheese Bake fits the bill. It brings creamy texture and simple prep together in a way the whole family will enjoy.
Well-loved version you can compare or adapt from, see the Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Soup.