I absolutely love sharing this delightful Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe with you because it’s one of my go-to dishes that’s both comforting and light. The creamy cottage cheese combined with fresh spinach creates a rich, velvety texture with just the right hint of freshness. What makes this quiche stand out is how effortlessly it comes together without a crust, making it a perfect warm or room temperature dish for brunch, dinner, or any festive occasion. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection too.
Why You'll Love This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe
One of the things I adore most about this recipe is the wonderful balance of flavors. The mild tanginess of the cottage cheese pairs beautifully with earthy, vibrant spinach and the subtle sweetness of sautéed onions. The sharp cheddar cheese sprinkled on top adds a lovely golden crust that adds a little bit of texture that makes every bite incredibly satisfying. I always find it so comforting to bite into that creamy, fluffy custard filled with wholesome greens.
Another reason this dish has become a favorite for me is how simple it is to make. With only a handful of ingredients and a straightforward preparation method, I can whip it up quickly even on busy days. No crust means less prep and less fuss, yet it never feels like you’re missing out on anything. It’s a dish that’s forgiving to make and impressive to serve, which I really appreciate.
This quiche is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving occasions. I’ve brought it to casual family brunches, weeknight dinners, and even festive gatherings. It holds up wonderfully whether served warm right out of the oven or at room temperature for a potluck. Honestly, it impresses every time and is perfect for guests or just a comforting meal for yourself. The combination of ease, taste, and adaptability makes this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe a real winner in my kitchen.
Ingredients You'll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each one contributes something special — from the creamy cottage cheese to the vibrant spinach and the golden cheddar topping, they all work in harmony to make this quiche so delicious.
TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below
- Cottage cheese: The creamy base providing moisture and a subtle tang that keeps the quiche light.
- Fresh spinach: Adds a burst of color and mild earthiness, plus a serving of greens.
- Large eggs: The binder that holds everything together with a fluffy texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Divided for mixing and topping — it gives a nice golden crust and sharpness.
- Small onion: Finely chopped and sautéed to bring sweetness and depth.
- Garlic powder: An easy way to add savory warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and black pepper: To season and enhance all the natural flavors.
- Nonstick cooking spray: For greasing the dish to ensure easy removal of the quiche.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your quiche will come out of the pan smoothly and maintain its beautiful shape.
Step 2: Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the onion, which balances the savory flavors in the quiche.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sautéed onion, chopped fresh spinach, eggs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything thoroughly until you have a well-incorporated, creamy mixture.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. This cheesy layer will melt and brown perfectly as it bakes, creating an irresistible crust.
Step 5: Bake the quiche for 30 to 35 minutes, or until it is set in the center and golden brown on top. A good way to check doneness is to insert a toothpick in the center — it should come out clean without any runny batter.
Step 6: Once baked, let the quiche cool slightly for about 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps it firm up a bit, making for cleaner slices and a better eating experience.
Servings and Timing
This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe yields 6 generous servings, perfect for sharing with family or guests. The prep time is pretty quick, around 10 to 15 minutes primarily for sautéing onions and mixing ingredients. The baking time takes about 30 to 35 minutes, and allowing 5 to 10 minutes for resting after baking means you’ll have a ready-to-eat dish in roughly 50 minutes total. It’s a great option when you want something tasty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
How to Serve This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe
When I serve this quiche, I love pairing it with a simple green salad lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The bright acidity cuts through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced meal. Alternatively, roasted vegetables or a fresh fruit salad complement the quiche wonderfully, especially if you are serving it at brunch or lunch.
For garnishes, I often sprinkle some fresh chopped chives or parsley on top before serving—it adds a pop of color and fresh herbal note that elevates the presentation. If you want a little more texture, crispy bacon bits on the side or a dollop of sour cream can create wonderful contrast without overwhelming the dish.
For beverages, this quiche is lovely with a chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, since their crispness pairs well with the creamy, cheesy profile. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a splash of lemon or freshly brewed iced tea works beautifully. I also find that it’s quite versatile temperature-wise, delicious served warm straight out of the oven or at room temperature when served buffet-style at gatherings. The quiche is easy to plate in slices, and I typically serve one slice per person alongside the chosen sides.
Variations
If you want to switch things up, I’m a fan of swapping out the spinach for other greens like kale or Swiss chard for different textures and flavors. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes also make great additions if you want a heartier quiche. You can even stir in some cooked bacon or sausage if you’re looking for a meatier option.
If you need a gluten-free meal, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it has no crust. For those who are dairy-free or vegan, substituting cottage cheese with a plant-based ricotta or tofu and using dairy-free cheese alternatives can work well, though the texture will change slightly. You can also try using nutritional yeast to add cheesy flavor if you avoid dairy.
Different cooking methods might include making this quiche in individual ramekins for personal servings or using a muffin tin to create bite-sized quiche cups—perfect for parties or lunches. I find baking at 375°F gives the best texture, but you can experiment with a slightly lower temperature and longer baking time if you want a softer, custard-like consistency.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
I recommend storing leftover quiche slices in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It's best to wait until the quiche is completely cooled before refrigerating to avoid condensation that can make it soggy.
Freezing
This quiche freezes nicely, which is great for meal prep. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. It’s best to consume frozen quiche within 1 to 2 months for optimal flavor and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the slices overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
The best way to reheat quiche is in the oven or toaster oven at 325°F until warmed through, usually about 10 to 15 minutes. This method helps preserve the texture and keeps the top nice and slightly crisp. I advise against microwaving if you want to avoid a rubbery or soggy texture, but if you’re short on time, microwave on medium power in short intervals until heated, then finish with a quick oven toast if possible.
FAQs
Can I make this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and even bake the quiche a day before serving. Just store it covered in the refrigerator and warm it gently in the oven before serving. It holds up beautifully and the flavors actually meld nicely overnight.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach is a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out any excess water before mixing it in to avoid making the quiche watery.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep or freezing?
Definitely. This quiche freezes well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for meal prep. Just wrap portions tightly and freeze, then thaw and reheat when needed. It’s a great make-ahead option.
What can I do if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
You can substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even Swiss cheese depending on your taste preferences. Just choose a cheese that melts well and complements the spinach and cottage cheese flavors.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins to this quiche?
Of course! This recipe is very flexible. You can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, cooked bacon, sausage, or even smoked salmon for different flavor twists. Just be mindful of moisture content to keep the quiche from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
I truly hope you give this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that brings comfort, simplicity, and flavor all in one. Whenever I make it, I’m reminded how easy it is to enjoy a wholesome, tasty meal without hours of prep or fuss. It feels special enough for guests but is effortless for everyday meals. I can’t wait for you to experience how delicious and versatile this quiche is—you might just find it becoming a new favorite in your home too!
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Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is a light, fluffy, and nutritious baked dish combining creamy cottage cheese, fresh spinach, eggs, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for brunch or a quick weekday meal, this crustless quiche is easy to make and can be served warm or at room temperature, appealing to family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Quiche Base
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Onions: In a pan over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and sweetness of the onions.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sautéed onions, chopped spinach, eggs, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is evenly blended.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the quiche mixture into the prepared greased baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the center and has a golden-brown top. Let it cool slightly before slicing to allow it to firm up for clean cuts.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.
- For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella or Swiss along with cheddar.
- This quiche can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for meals or gatherings.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently before serving.
- To make it vegetarian, ensure that the cheese used does not contain animal rennet.
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