Introduction
This Cheesy Tomato Cottage Bake is a warm, hearty dish inspired by Mediterranean flavors. Combining juicy tomatoes, creamy cottage cheese, melty mozzarella, fresh herbs, and savory vegetables, it’s a perfect low-carb comfort meal. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or just trying to eat cleaner, this one-dish bake satisfies without the guilt. It’s light, filling, and super simple to prepare!
🛒 Ingredients
For the Bake:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 400g (14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 1/2 cups (350g) cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- A handful of fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- A few cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Extra herbs or chili flakes for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking dish (around 8×8 or similar).
2. Cook the Veggie Tomato Base
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in garlic, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
- Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, uncovered, until slightly thickened. Stir occasionally.
3. Make the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Cottage cheese
- Egg
- Grated Parmesan
- Fresh herbs
Mix until smooth and set aside.
4. Assemble the Bake
- Spoon the tomato-vegetable mixture into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over everything.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes on top if using.
5. Bake It!
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly on top.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to set.
✅ Tips & Serving Suggestions
- Add olives, spinach, or mushrooms to boost the Mediterranean vibe.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted cauliflower for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days – great for meal prep!
- For extra protein, add cooked ground turkey or shredded chicken between the veggie and cheese layers.
🍽️ Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: 20–25g
- Carbs: 8–10g
- Fat: 16–20g
(Values will vary depending on specific brands and modifications.)