Description
A protein-packed breakfast option that combines creamy cottage cheese with eggs and savory mix-ins. These make-ahead bars are perfect for busy mornings and will keep you satisfied until lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (or turkey bacon for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped spinach
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and thoroughly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This essential step creates a non-stick surface that will allow your breakfast bars to release easily once baked.
- Mix Base Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and eggs. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and well-integrated. The cottage cheese should break down slightly but will still maintain some of its texture, which is perfect for these bars.
- Add Flavor Elements
- Gently fold in the diced bell peppers, green onions, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using spinach, add it now. Mix just until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the egg mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish
- Pour the complete mixture into your prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly to all corners. Ensure the surface is level to promote even cooking throughout the dish.
- Bake Until Set
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The breakfast bars are done when the center is completely set and the top develops a golden brown color. You can test doneness by inserting a knife in the center – it should come out clean.
- Cool and Slice
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing into 8 equal bars. This cooling period helps the bars set properly and makes them easier to cut cleanly.
Notes
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- These bars freeze well – wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- For meal prep, make a batch on Sunday for grab-and-go breakfasts all week.
- Try different cheese varieties like mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for variation.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon or substitute with plant-based alternatives.
- Add herbs like fresh chives, basil, or dill for additional flavor dimensions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 170mg