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Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Cottage Cheese Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 54 reviews

This Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Cottage Cheese Bake is a rich, savory custard-like dish featuring deeply caramelized onions, creamy cottage cheese, and melty Gruyère cheese. Slow-cooked onions impart a sweet and jammy depth, balanced by fresh thyme and a smooth, cheesy custard base. Baked to golden perfection, it makes a comforting vegetarian main or side that’s perfect for brunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Cottage Cheese Mixture

  • 2 cups small-curd cottage cheese (well-drained)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Onions and Cheese

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese, divided (¾ cup + ¼ cup)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally at first, then more frequently as they start to brown. Cook until the onions are soft, deeply amber, and jammy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Drain the Cottage Cheese: Place the cottage cheese in a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl. Let it drain for at least 20 minutes, pressing gently with a spoon occasionally to release excess whey. Discard the liquid.
  3. Prepare Oven and Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish well to prevent sticking.
  4. Blend Custard Base: In a blender, combine the drained cottage cheese, eggs, and cornstarch. Blend for 45-60 seconds until the mixture is smooth, frothy, and lump-free.
  5. Mix Ingredients: Pour the blended custard into a mixing bowl. Stir in the fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the cooled caramelized onions and ¾ cup of shredded Gruyère cheese.
  6. Assemble Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Gruyère cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. The bake is done when the edges are set, the top is golden brown, and the center has a slight wobble but is not liquid. A knife inserted about an inch from the center should come out clean.
  8. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. Cooling allows the bake to continue setting for a firm yet tender slice. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Slow caramelization of onions is key to developing the deep, sweet flavor and jammy texture — do not rush this step.
  • Draining cottage cheese thoroughly prevents excess moisture that could make the bake runny.
  • You can substitute Gruyère with other melting cheeses like Emmental or Swiss if needed.
  • This bake is delicious served alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.

Keywords: carmelized onion bake, cottage cheese recipe, Gruyère cheese bake, vegetarian custard, savory baked dish, brunch recipe

Find it online: https://leofoster.com/caramelized-onion-and-gruyere-cottage-cheese-bake-recipe/