
This light and savory dish brings together tender spinach and creamy Gruyère cheese in a soft egg base, creating a protein-packed bite perfect for busy mornings. It is easy to prepare, reheats beautifully, and stores well for days, making it a smart choice for meal prep.
I first made this when looking for a quick breakfast to pack for work days, and it has since become a favorite in my kitchen for both mornings and snack times.
Ingredients
- Large eggs: provide the structure and protein needed for a satisfying bite
- Cottage cheese: keeps the mixture moist and creamy without being heavy
- Gruyère cheese: adds a nutty depth of flavor and melts beautifully
- Cornstarch: stabilizes the texture for a smooth, custardy finish
- Salt and black pepper: balance the flavors
- Hot sauce: brings a gentle warmth that complements the spinach
- Fresh spinach: offers color and nutrients while keeping the flavor light
- Scallions: give a mild onion note for freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Steam Bath:
- Bring a kettle of water to a boil and preheat the oven to 300°F. Position racks in the middle and lowest settings. Place a 9x13-inch baking dish on the lower rack and fill halfway with boiling water to create steam.
- Prepare the Muffin Pan:
- Generously coat a nonstick muffin tin with cooking spray to ensure easy release of the bites after baking.
- Blend the Egg Mixture:
- In a blender, combine the eggs, cottage cheese, Gruyère, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Blend for about 30 seconds until completely smooth and uniform.
- Fill the Pan:
- Pour the blended mixture evenly into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full for even cooking.
- Add Spinach and Scallions:
- Sprinkle the chopped spinach and scallions evenly over the mixture in each well. Use a spoon to gently press them into the batter so they are submerged.
- Bake the Egg Bites:
- Place the muffin pan on the middle oven rack and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the bites are set and just pulling away from the edges.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bites to rest for 5 minutes in the pan before carefully loosening them with a spoon and transferring to a plate. Serve warm.

My favorite part of these bites is the combination of the creamy Gruyère with the tender spinach. It reminds me of the first time I made them on a weekend morning when my family gathered in the kitchen and enjoyed them straight from the oven.
Storage Tips
Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power to avoid overcooking.
Ingredient Substitutions
Replace Gruyère with Cheddar or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. Swap spinach with kale or finely chopped broccoli for variety. Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based cottage cheese for a dairy-free option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced breakfast or pair with a slice of toasted sourdough for a heartier meal. They also work well as a side dish alongside a light soup or salad.

Cultural Note
This style of egg bite takes inspiration from French custards and the gentle cooking of sous vide, blending classic technique with modern convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of Gruyere?
Yes, you can substitute Gruyere with Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a slightly different flavor profile.
- → How can I make these egg bites dairy-free?
Replace the cottage cheese and shredded cheese with dairy-free alternatives, and follow the same baking instructions.
- → How do I store spinach egg bites?
Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- → What’s the best way to reheat them?
Microwave at 50% power for 60 to 90 seconds, or warm in a low oven until heated through.
- → Can I add other vegetables to the mix?
Yes, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini work well, but make sure to chop them finely and remove excess moisture before adding.