Cheesy Tomato Cottage Bake – Mediterranean & Low-Carb Delight
It’s light yet satisfying, rich in protein, and full of vibrant ingredients that make healthy eating feel indulgent. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply want a delicious, wholesome dinner, this Mediterranean bake is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
🧂 Ingredients
For the base:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (400g) diced tomatoes (or 3 fresh medium tomatoes, chopped)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the cottage bake layer:
1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta for a creamier texture)
2 eggs
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For topping:
½ cup extra mozzarella cheese (for melting on top)
Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
A drizzle of olive oil
👩🍳 Instructions
Prepare the tomato base:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.Add tomatoes and seasoning:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat.Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a medium baking dish.Make the cottage cheese mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, eggs, mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until smooth.Assemble the bake:
Spread the tomato mixture evenly at the bottom of the baking dish. Then pour the cottage cheese mixture over the top and smooth it out.Add the finishing touch:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top. Add cherry tomato halves if you like extra color and freshness.Bake:
Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.Serve:
Let it cool slightly, drizzle a little olive oil on top, and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm and enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired comfort meal!
💡 Tips for Success
For extra flavor: Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the tomato layer.
Make it creamy: Substitute half the cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese.
Low-carb boost: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a light green salad.
Meal prep friendly: This bake stores beautifully — keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven.
🍽️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Tomato Cottage Bake is everything you want in a comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying — but with a healthy, low-carb twist. The combination of cottage cheese and eggs gives it a light, custard-like texture, while the Mediterranean tomato sauce adds freshness and tang.
It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a protein-packed meal prep option. Each bite bursts with flavor and nutrition, making it ideal for anyone who wants a wholesome meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Whether you’re on a keto or low-carb diet or simply enjoy healthy Mediterranean cooking, this dish brings you the best of both worlds — comfort and balance in every spoonful.
💡 Tips: Use peeled, cooked, chilled shrimp for convenience. Add avocado or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor. Keeps well for 1–2 days in the fridge (perfect for meal prep!).