Description

This Veggie Bake is a comforting and wholesome dish featuring roasted zucchinis, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes layered with a creamy cottage cheese and egg mixture, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to golden, bubbly perfection, it makes a delicious, healthy meal perfect for any time you crave a hearty vegetarian entree.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Dairy & Eggs

1 cup cottage cheese
2 large eggs
1 cup shredded mozzarella, divided
½ cup grated Parmesan

Seasonings & Oils

2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat and roast vegetables: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, toss sliced zucchinis, diced red bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes with the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 15 minutes until they begin to soften and develop a lovely roasted aroma.
Prepare the cheese mixture: While the vegetables roast, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, and half of the shredded mozzarella in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined. This mixture will serve as a creamy, protein-packed layer for the bake.
Assemble the veggie bake: Lightly grease a baking dish. Spread a layer of the roasted vegetables evenly in the dish, then add a layer of the chopped spinach. Pour the cottage cheese and egg mixture over the veggies and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
Bake to perfection: Place the assembled baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Bake until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the casserole is set.
Rest and garnish: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the bake to set further. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving to add freshness and a burst of color.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients, especially spices and cheeses, are certified gluten-free.
You can substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for different leafy greens.
Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt, depending on the saltiness of the cheeses.
This dish can be served as a main vegetarian meal or a hearty side dish.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to preserve texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: veggie bake, vegetarian casserole, roasted vegetables, healthy comfort food, baked zucchini, cottage cheese casserole