breakfast · High Protein
37g Protein Cottage Cheese Deviled Eggs (405 Calories) (37g Protein)
These protein-packed deviled eggs deliver 37g protein and 405 calories per serving. Cottage cheese replaces traditional mayonnaise in the filling, doubling the protein content while creating an unexpectedly creamy texture.
Nutrition per serving
- Protein
- 37 g
- Calories
- 405
- Carbs
- 5 g
- Fat
- 26 g
Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredient data and may vary by brand or preparation method. This information is for general reference only and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs — hard-boiled
- 0.5 cup cottage cheese — 2% fat, blended smooth
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 0.5 tsp paprika — smoked, for garnish
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp pepper — freshly ground
Steps
- Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat, then remove from heat, cover, and let stand exactly 12 minutes.
- Transfer eggs to an ice bath for 5 minutes. Peel under running water for easier shell removal.
- Slice eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove yolks to a bowl. Arrange whites on a serving platter.
- Blend cottage cheese in a food processor or blender until completely smooth, about 60 seconds. It should have no visible curds.
- Mash egg yolks with a fork until no large chunks remain. Add blended cottage cheese, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until uniformly combined.
- Transfer filling to a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner cut off. Pipe filling into each egg white half.
- Dust with smoked paprika and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
Why This Works
Traditional deviled eggs use mayonnaise (mostly fat, minimal protein) as the filling base. Swapping in blended cottage cheese turns the nutrition profile: 2% cottage cheese provides 12g protein per half-cup versus 0g from mayonnaise. Combined with 8 whole eggs (50g protein total), each serving delivers 37g protein at 9.1g per 100 calories. Matching the protein density of chicken breast.
The Cottage Cheese Technique
The key to this swap is blending the cottage cheese until silky smooth. Unblended, it creates a grainy, unappetizing texture. Sixty seconds in a food processor turns it into a consistency nearly indistinguishable from Greek yogurt. The mild tang actually enhances the classic deviled egg flavor profile rather than competing with it.
Foolproof Hard-Boiled Eggs
The 12-minute standing method produces yolks that are fully set without the gray-green ring that signals overcooking. The ice bath stops carryover cooking immediately. For easier peeling, use eggs that are at least a week old. The slightly larger air cell allows the membrane to separate more cleanly from the white.
Make It Your Own
Add 1 teaspoon sriracha to the filling for a spicy kick. Fold in 2 tablespoons of finely diced chives for color and mild onion flavor. Top with everything bagel seasoning instead of paprika. For an extra 3g protein per serving, stir crumbled bacon bits into the filling. These keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Sources Research-Backed
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I taste the cottage cheese?
When properly blended, the cottage cheese adds a subtle tang similar to adding a touch of vinegar, which is a traditional ingredient in many deviled egg recipes. The mustard and yolks mask any distinct cottage cheese flavor.
Can I use full-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, but it will increase calories while adding only marginally more protein. The 2% version provides the best protein-to-calorie ratio while maintaining a creamy texture.
How long do these keep?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cottage cheese filling may weep slightly. Blot with a paper towel before serving if needed.
