Healthy Broccoli Cheese Bake

This Broccoli Cheese Bake is the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition! Made with simple ingredients like broccoli, cottage cheese, and cheddar cheese, this dish is rich, creamy, and loaded with protein. Whether you're looking for a healthy side dish or a satisfying meatless main, this bake delivers big on flavor and wholesome goodness. It's quick to prepare, family-friendly, and an excellent way to sneak more vegetables into your meal. Perfect for weeknights or a cozy gathering, this recipe will soon become a favorite at your table!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• 4 large eggs

• 1/4 cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk)

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish.

2. Prepare Broccoli:

   • Steam or microwave the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Cheese Mixture:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.

4. Assemble the Bake:

   • Arrange the cooked broccoli florets evenly in the greased baking dish.

   • Pour the cheese mixture over the broccoli, spreading it evenly to coat the florets.

5. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs:

   • Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs if desired.

6. Bake:

   • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the bake is set.

7. Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm as a hearty side dish or a light main course.

   Serves 6-8

Tips:

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.

• You can substitute part of the cheddar with mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

• Add cooked chicken or ham for a protein-packed main dish.

Enjoy your creamy and cheesy broccoli bake!