Savory Turkey, Bell Pepper & Cheddar Cottage Muffins
If you are looking for a satisfying, protein-packed bake that works for breakfast, lunchboxes, or a quick dinner side, these Savory Turkey, Bell Pepper and Cheddar Cottage Muffins are a smart choice. They are moist from cottage cheese, flavorful from seasoned ground turkey, and perfectly balanced with sweet bell peppers and sharp cheddar.
These muffins are easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and ideal for meal prep. Serve them warm with a simple salad, tuck them into a lunchbox, or enjoy one as a high-protein snack during a busy day.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Yield: 12 standard muffins
Ingredients
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup cooked ground turkey (cooled)
1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup finely diced green bell pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup olive oil
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or lightly grease it.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, olive oil, and cottage cheese until mostly smooth. Small curds are fine.
Stir in the cooked ground turkey, diced red bell pepper, diced green bell pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
Gently fold everything together until just combined. Do not overmix.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
Lightly tap the pan on the counter to remove air pockets.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips
Make sure the ground turkey is fully cooled before mixing to avoid scrambling the eggs.
Dice the bell peppers finely so they distribute evenly and bake properly.
For extra moisture, use full-fat cottage cheese.
Shred your own cheddar for better melt and texture.
Avoid overmixing, which can make the muffins dense.
Use an ice cream scoop for even portioning.
If the tops brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil in the last 5 minutes.
Let the muffins rest before removing to prevent sticking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze individually wrapped muffins for up to 2 months.
Variations
Add 1/4 cup chopped spinach for extra greens.
Substitute ground chicken for turkey.
Use mozzarella or pepper jack instead of cheddar.
Add 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Mix in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour.
Add 1/4 cup cooked crumbled bacon for richness.
Stir in diced jalapeños for heat.
Replace milk with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier taste.
Sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a golden crust.
Q&A
Can I use raw ground turkey?
No, it must be cooked and cooled before mixing into the batter.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Why are my muffins dense?
Overmixing or too much flour can cause density. Measure carefully.
Can I make mini muffins?
Yes, bake for 12–15 minutes instead.
Do they taste strongly of cottage cheese?
No, it adds moisture and mild creaminess rather than strong flavor.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
It is best baked immediately, but you can refrigerate it for up to 4 hours.
How do I reheat them?
Warm in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes.
Can I reduce the oil?
You can slightly reduce it, but the texture may be less moist.
Are they suitable for meal prep?
Yes, they store and freeze very well.
Can I add onions?
Yes, sautéed onions add extra flavor and sweetness.
Nutrition
(Approximate per muffin)
Calories: 190
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Conclusion
Savory Turkey, Bell Pepper and Cheddar Cottage Muffins are a practical, high-protein option that fits easily into a busy schedule. They combine tender turkey, colorful vegetables, and melted cheddar into a soft, satisfying muffin that works any time of day.
Make a batch at the start of the week and keep them on hand for quick breakfasts, packed lunches, or simple snacks. Once you try them, they are likely to become part of your regular meal prep routine.