cottage cheese egg bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Egg Breakfast Skillet is one of those wonderfully flexible meals that fits every part of the day, whether you are preparing a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a light yet satisfying dinner. It brings together the richness of eggs, the warmth of sautéed vegetables, and the comfort of simple seasonings, all in a single pan. I appreciate how effortlessly the recipe adapts to whatever you have on hand. When I tested this using almond milk instead of dairy milk, it worked beautifully and added a pleasantly subtle nuttiness. Its minimal cleanup and reliable results make it a staple worth returning to often, especially when time is limited but nourishment is essential. From its soft, comforting texture to its ability to take on bolder flavours if desired, this recipe truly delivers on flexibility and flavour balance.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ingredients Breakdown

Eggs
Eggs serve as the foundation of the skillet, offering richness, protein, and structure. Their natural creaminess binds the vegetables while remaining tender when cooked gently.

Milk or almond milk
A small amount of milk creates a softer, fluffier texture. Almond milk works well for a dairy-free option and adds a mild sweetness without altering flavour significantly.

Bell pepper
Bell pepper contributes colour, freshness, and a light sweetness that complements the eggs beautifully. It becomes tender but still retains a pleasant bite.

Onion
Onion provides gentle savouriness and aromatic depth. Cooking it until translucent lends subtle sweetness that enhances the entire dish.

Spinach
Spinach wilts quickly, adding nutrients and vivid colour without overwhelming the skillet. It blends smoothly with the eggs and contributes earthy brightness.

Cherry tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes offer acidity and juiciness that balance the richness of the eggs. They soften just enough during cooking to release flavour without becoming mushy.

Olive oil
Olive oil ensures the vegetables sauté evenly and prevents sticking. It adds a smooth, slightly fruity depth that complements the fresh ingredients.

Salt
Salt enhances the natural flavours of the vegetables and eggs, bringing harmony to each bite.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds mild heat and aroma, lifting the overall flavour profile.

Paprika
Paprika brings warmth and subtle smokiness. It also enriches the colour, making the skillet visually appealing.

Directions

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Begin by heating olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened and fragrant. This step lays the flavour foundation and ensures the vegetables achieve a pleasant tenderness. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook briefly until they begin to release their juices. Add the spinach last, allowing it to wilt gently without overcooking.

While the vegetables cook, whisk the eggs with milk or almond milk, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the eggs to cook undisturbed until the edges begin to set, then gently stir or lift the edges to let uncooked egg flow underneath. Continue cooking until the eggs are fully set but still tender. Avoid high heat, as it can toughen the eggs.

Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and allow it to rest for a minute to settle. Serve immediately, either straight from the pan or plated individually, enjoying the harmonious blend of textures and flavours.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This dish serves 2 to 3 people. Preparation requires about 10 minutes, and cooking takes approximately 10 minutes. Total time: around 20 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals to avoid overcooking. The texture remains pleasant if reheated carefully. Freezing is not recommended due to the delicate nature of cooked eggs.

Variations and Customizations

Mushroom and herb version

Add sliced mushrooms and fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for an earthier, aromatic profile.

Cheesy skillet

Incorporate shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or feta for added richness and a creamy finish.

Spicy kick

Include diced jalapeño, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Mediterranean style

Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano for a more robust, savoury flavour.

Protein-packed option

Stir in cooked turkey sausage or diced ham to add heartiness.

Veggie-loaded skillet

Increase the vegetables with zucchini, broccoli florets, or asparagus for a more nutrient-dense meal.

Tomato-basil freshness

Top the finished dish with fresh basil and extra tomatoes for a lighter profile.

Smoky depth

Use smoked paprika or a small amount of chipotle to enhance the warmth and complexity.

Dairy-free richness

Add a spoonful of hummus when serving to achieve creaminess without using dairy.

Sweet pepper blend

Mix different colours of bell peppers to create a sweeter, more colourful dish.

FAQs

Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?

Yes, though the texture will be firmer and less rich.

Can I prepare the vegetables ahead of time?

Yes, chopped vegetables can be refrigerated for up to two days.

Do I need to cover the skillet while cooking?

Not usually, but covering briefly can help the eggs set more quickly.

Can I add potatoes?

Yes, pre-cooked diced potatoes work well for a heartier skillet.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

It is best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored for short-term use.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture.

How do I prevent the eggs from becoming rubbery?

Cook on low to medium-low heat and avoid over-stirring.

Can I bake this instead of cooking on the stovetop?

Yes, bake at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes or until set.

What herbs pair well with this dish?

Parsley, basil, chives, and thyme complement the flavours nicely.

Can I serve this with sides?

Yes, it pairs well with toast, roasted potatoes, or a simple salad.

Conclusion

This Egg Breakfast Skillet captures the essence of simple, wholesome cooking. Its combination of tender eggs, vibrant vegetables, and warm seasonings creates a reliable meal that suits any time of day. With its ease of preparation, flexibility in ingredients, and ability to adapt to personal preferences, it stands as a dependable dish that can evolve with your tastes. Whether you keep it classic or explore creative variations, this recipe offers both comfort and versatility in every serving.

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