Save I stumbled onto this combination during a frantic Tuesday when I needed something that felt like comfort food but wouldn't derail my fitness goals. The cottage cheese was an experiment—I was skeptical about the texture until it transformed into something silky and rich in the oven. Now it is the kind of dinner I actually look forward to eating all week.
My sister-in-law asked for the recipe after I served it at a family gathering, claiming she could not believe it was healthy. She ate three slices before I even mentioned the cottage cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese: Draining this thoroughly is what prevents the final dish from becoming watery, so do not skip this step
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds that salty tang that makes spinach artichoke anything so irresistible
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a lovely golden crust on top as it bakes
- 3 large eggs: These bind everything together into a sliceable casserole instead of a loose dip
- 1 cup frozen chopped spinach: Thaw and squeeze it completely dry—any remaining water will make the bake soggy
- 1 cup artichoke hearts: Jarred or canned both work beautifully, just chop them into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic: Fresh minced garlic transforms the creamy dairy into something fragrant and savory
- Salt and pepper: Taste the mixture before baking since the feta is already quite salty
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with a little butter or oil
- Mix everything together:
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and stir until the spinach and artichokes are evenly distributed throughout the cheesy mixture
- Season to taste:
- Add salt and pepper, keeping in mind the feta and Parmesan are already bringing significant saltiness
- Spread into the dish:
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and use a spatula to create an even surface
- Bake until golden:
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until the top is beautifully browned and the center no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan
- Let it rest:
- Cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing—this helps the portions hold their shape
Save This bake became my go-to Sunday meal prep during a particularly hectic month at work. Coming home to slices already packed in containers made weeknight dinners feel manageable instead of overwhelming.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I add red pepper flakes when I want a little warmth, especially in winter. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley stirred in right before baking brighten everything up.
Storage Secrets
This actually tastes better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. I often bake it Sunday evening and eat it throughout the week.
Serving Ideas
A simple green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. For breakfast, I have eaten it alongside scrambled eggs and it felt luxurious.
- Try serving it as a dip with crackers at your next gathering
- Crumble some cooked bacon on top if you want extra protein
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in the microwave for 60 seconds
Save This recipe proves healthy food does not have to feel like a compromise. It is the kind of dish that makes you feel taken care of.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can. Sauté about 6 cups of fresh spinach until wilted, then ensure you thoroughly drain and chop it before adding to the mixture.
- → How do I prevent the bake from being watery?
To ensure a firm bake, it's crucial to drain your cottage cheese thoroughly of any excess liquid. Also, squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the thawed spinach.
- → How long does this dish last for meal prep?
This bake stores wonderfully for meal prep. You can keep slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze portions for up to two months.
- → What if I want to add more flavor?
For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture. A handful of fresh, chopped herbs like parsley or chives would also brighten the taste beautifully.
- → Is this suitable for other dietary needs?
This dish is naturally vegetarian, low-carb, and high-protein, making it a versatile option for various dietary preferences. It's packed with nutrients from cheeses, eggs, spinach, and artichokes.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the mixture in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.