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Ina Garten Blintz Casserole

Ina Garten Blintz Casserole recipe
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This creamy, baked casserole features layers of tender blintz-like batter and a rich, sweet cheese filling. With a golden top and soft interior, it’s a comforting dish perfect for brunch or a special breakfast.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for greasing the baking dish
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
  • 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F / 190°C. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, using a pastry brush or your fingers to coat the bottom and sides evenly. This prevents the casserole from sticking and ensures easy removal after baking.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, sift together 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Sifting aerates the flour, which helps create a lighter batter and prevents lumps when combined with wet ingredients.
  3. In a separate large bowl, whisk 4 large eggs until well beaten and slightly frothy, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 cup whole milk until fully incorporated. The eggs should be at room temperature to blend smoothly with the milk.
  4. Slowly add the sifted flour mixture to the egg and milk mixture, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Whisk until the batter is smooth and free of clumps. Then, stir in 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter that has been cooled slightly. The butter adds richness and helps the batter brown during baking.
  5. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flour to hydrate fully, resulting in a more tender texture and preventing a gritty mouthfeel in the finished casserole.
  6. While the batter rests, make the filling. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese and continue beating until well combined.
  7. Add 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 large egg yolks, and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract to the cheese mixture. Beat on low speed until everything is fully incorporated and the filling is smooth. Avoid overmixing to prevent the filling from becoming too airy, which can affect the texture.
  8. To assemble, pour half of the rested batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the bottom. Spoon the cheese filling over the batter, spreading it into an even layer with the back of a spoon or offset spatula.
  9. Carefully pour the remaining batter over the filling, gently tilting the dish to spread it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring the filling is completely covered to prevent burning during baking.
  10. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The casserole is done when the top is golden brown, the edges are set, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. For accuracy, check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F / 71°C using an instant-read thermometer.
  11. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the filling to set further, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
  12. Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or accompanied by fresh fruit compote. Slice into squares using a sharp knife for clean edges.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in a 350°F / 177°C oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

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Find it online: https://inagartendishes.com/ina-garten-blintz-casserole/