There is something truly comforting and wholesome about a savory slice of quiche, especially when it’s packed with vibrant greens and creamy cheese. The Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it perfectly balances fluffy eggs, tender spinach, and rich cottage cheese without any crust to weigh it down. This dish is not only a lighter take on the traditional quiche, but it also brings bright colors and satisfying textures that make every bite feel like a little celebration. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious breakfast, a delightful brunch centerpiece, or a simple dinner, this crustless quiche is sure to win hearts and plates alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients come together effortlessly in this recipe. Each one plays a crucial role, ensuring the texture is creamy, the flavor is rich, and the colors pop invitingly.
- Olive oil: A tablespoon to gently sauté the onions and bring out their sweetness while adding subtle richness.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Adds a mild, savory base flavor that complements the spinach perfectly.
- Fresh spinach, chopped: Provides vibrant green color, a fresh taste, and a healthy boost of vitamins and minerals.
- Cottage cheese: Adds creamy texture and protein without heaviness, making this quiche wonderfully moist.
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for gooeyness and adds a luscious cheesy flavor.
- Large eggs: The backbone of the quiche, binding everything together into a fluffy, tender slice.
- Milk: Softens the eggs for a smooth custard consistency and uplifting lightness.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors into harmony and enhances the seasoning.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild kick and warmth to elevate the dish.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a gentle aromatic depth without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- Nutmeg (optional): A pinch to subtly brighten the flavor with its warm, earthy note.
How to Make Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan. This simple step ensures your quiche won’t stick and will come out looking gorgeous and intact after baking.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Spinach
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, bringing out its natural sweetness. Next, toss in the chopped spinach and cook just long enough for it to wilt, about 1-2 minutes. This process melds the flavors and reduces extra moisture that could make the quiche soggy. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs and Milk
In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs and milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creates the base of your custard and helps ensure even texture throughout the quiche.
Step 4: Mix in Cheeses and Seasonings
Gently stir in the cottage cheese and your choice of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Then, season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and if you love a hint of warmth, a pinch of nutmeg. Each ingredient adds character and complexity to the quiche’s flavor.
Step 5: Combine Spinach-Onion Mixture
Fold the sautéed spinach and onion into the cheese and egg base. Take care to mix it evenly, allowing every slice to capture the delightful combination of ingredients.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top gleams a light golden brown. To check doneness, a toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean. Once baked, allow the quiche to rest for 10 minutes before slicing — this helps the quiche settle and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or chives on top really wakes up the quiche with fragrant freshness. You can also add a dusting of paprika or a few shreds of extra cheese for a beautiful final touch.
Side Dishes
Pair this crustless quiche with a crisp mixed green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted cherry tomatoes for a contrast of flavors and textures. Lightly toasted whole grain bread or fresh fruit also make for delightful accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual slices on pretty plates with a small dollop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of pesto to add vibrancy. For brunch events, cut the quiche into bite-sized squares and offer toothpicks for easy finger food. It also makes a charming addition to a picnic basket or a potluck spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap leftover quiche tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it an excellent choice for meal planning during busy weeks.
Freezing
This Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice it into portions, wrap each piece individually, and seal in a freezer bag. When properly stored, your quiche will keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for quick and nutritious meals on the go.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through to preserve texture and flavor. Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, though oven reheating yields the best results to keep the crustless quiche fluffy and moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to avoid a watery quiche. Frozen spinach works well and keeps this recipe convenient year-round.
Is this quiche suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, since this is a crustless quiche, it naturally contains no gluten, making it a safe and delicious option for those who need to avoid gluten.
Can I substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese?
You can use ricotta for a similar creamy texture, but cream cheese is denser and thicker, so the quiche might be richer and firmer. Adjust milk amounts to achieve desired consistency.
How can I add more vegetables to this quiche?
Feel free to toss in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme also complement the spinach perfectly. Just keep overall moisture in check for the best texture.
Is this quiche good for meal prep?
Definitely! It reheats wonderfully and stays flavorful for days, making it a fantastic make-ahead dish for busy mornings or quick dinners.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe enough if you’re craving a nutritious, flavorful dish that feels both comforting and fresh. Its simplicity and vibrant taste make it a go-to recipe that you’ll gladly turn to time and again. So go ahead and give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy spinach and cheese for any meal of the day!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian,Gluten Free
Description
This Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is a healthy, low-carb breakfast option packed with protein and fresh flavors. It features a creamy mixture of cottage cheese, eggs, and sautéed spinach baked to perfection without a crust for a lighter, gluten-free meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Dairy and Eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent, developing a sweet flavor base.
- Cook Spinach: Add chopped fresh spinach to the skillet with the onions and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined and smooth, creating the base for the quiche filling.
- Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Stir in the cottage cheese and shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg (if using) to season the mixture evenly.
- Combine with Vegetables: Fold the cooled spinach and onion mixture into the egg and cheese mixture, ensuring the ingredients are well distributed for uniform flavor.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the filling evenly into the prepared pie dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden brown, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to firm up, making it easier to slice and enhancing the flavors before serving.
Notes
- You can use either full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese according to your dietary preferences.
- Add optional ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or fresh herbs to customize the flavor profile.
- This crustless quiche is excellent for meal prep and stores well for reheating later.
