I absolutely love making this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe whenever I want something hearty, wholesome, and bursting with flavor without the fuss of a traditional crust. It’s one of those dishes that feels both healthy and indulgent at the same time. The creamy cottage cheese pairs perfectly with the fresh spinach and a hint of seasoning, creating a savory custard that’s light yet satisfying. I find it’s incredibly versatile, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a simple weeknight dinner, and every time I slice into it, I get a warm, comforting feeling that makes me smile.
Why You'll Love This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe
From the first time I made this recipe, I knew it was something special. The flavor is vibrant yet balanced — the mild tanginess of the cottage cheese blends so well with the fresh spinach and sweet bell peppers, while the Italian seasoning and garlic powder elevate the taste just enough to keep things interesting. What I particularly adore is how the eggs and cheese create a luscious, silky texture that feels decadent without being heavy.
This recipe also wins big for ease of preparation. I love that there’s no crust to fuss over, which means less time prepping and more time enjoying. Tossing the ingredients together is straightforward, and the sauté step brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies. For me, it’s the perfect balance of simple ingredients coming together beautifully, making it ideal for both busy mornings and relaxed weekend brunches.
I often serve this quiche at family gatherings or casual get-togethers because it always pleases a crowd and can be made ahead of time. It stands out from other quiches because it’s crustless — which means fewer carbs but all the flavor — and the cottage cheese adds a unique moistness that feels more wholesome than cream-heavy alternatives. Honestly, once you try this recipe, it’s hard not to make it a regular in your rotation.
Ingredients You'll Need
What I really enjoy about this quiche is how simple yet essential every ingredient is — each one plays a key role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and color of the finished dish.
TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below
- Olive oil: adds richness and helps soften the vegetables perfectly during sautéing.
- Small onion, diced: brings a gentle sweetness that complements the savory eggs.
- Half a bell pepper, diced: adds a subtle crunch and pop of color.
- Fresh baby spinach, chopped: for that vibrant green color and fresh, earthy flavor.
- Cottage cheese: the star ingredient that provides moisture and creaminess without heaviness.
- Large eggs: create the custardy base that holds everything together.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: adds a melty, savory note with a hint of sharpness.
- Milk: lightens the texture and helps the quiche set smoothly.
- Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: essential for a layer of aromatic, herbaceous flavor that brightens the dish.
Directions
Step 1: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature by the time your mixture is ready to bake.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, stirring occasionally for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Then add the chopped spinach and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until it wilts down nicely. Don’t forget to season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to get those flavors really popping.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and cottage cheese until smooth. Next, stir in the Italian seasoning along with a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will form the creamy base of your quiche.
Step 4: Gently fold in the sautéed vegetables and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is evenly combined. The mixture should look inviting — full of color with pockets of melted cheese.
Step 5: Grease your baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the quiche mixture evenly into the dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
Step 6: Bake in your preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the center is firm to the touch, no longer jiggly.
Step 7: Allow the quiche to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This little rest helps it set perfectly and makes serving easier.
Servings and Timing
This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe makes about 8 generous servings — perfect for feeding a family or sharing with friends. Prep time is pleasantly quick, around 10 minutes since most ingredients just need chopping and whisking. Cooking time takes about 40 to 45 minutes, depending on your oven, with a cooling period of 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. So all in all, you’re looking at just under an hour from start to finish, which I find incredibly manageable for such a gratifying dish.
How to Serve This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe
When I serve this quiche, I love pairing it with light, fresh sides that complement its creamy texture. A crisp garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some roasted cherry tomatoes on the side really elevate the meal. For a brunch spread, I sometimes add fresh fruit like melon or berries, which adds a sweet balance to the savory quiche.
When it comes to presentation, a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top just before serving adds a beautiful burst of color and a fresh aroma that always impresses guests. I often serve it warm straight from the oven, but I’ve found it’s just as delicious at room temperature, making it flexible for potlucks or picnics.
For beverages, this quiche pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly sparkling water infused with citrus. On a cozy breakfast day, a good-quality coffee or green tea complements it perfectly. It’s a versatile dish that fits beautifully into so many meal occasions — from casual family dinners and weekend brunches to more festive holiday tables.
Variations
I love experimenting with this recipe to keep it fresh and exciting. One of my favorite twists is swapping the cheddar cheese for a mixture of feta and mozzarella for a tangier, Mediterranean vibe. If you want to keep things vegetarian but add more protein, try incorporating some cooked mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes in the veggie mix for a deeper flavor.
If you’re looking for dietary modifications, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, which makes it a safer choice for those with gluten sensitivities. For a vegan version, you could experiment by using silken tofu blended with a little nutritional yeast instead of eggs and cottage cheese, although the texture will be different. I’ve also made small portions in muffin tins which bake faster and are perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts.
Another cooking option I enjoy is using a slow cooker to make this crustless quiche. It requires less active cooking time and keeps the custard super moist. Just adjust the timing and keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
When I have leftovers, I transfer the quiche slices into an airtight container and refrigerate them. It keeps really well for up to 3 to 4 days. I always make sure to let it cool completely before storing to prevent any condensation that might make the quiche soggy.
Freezing
This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe freezes beautifully. I like to cut it into individual portions, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It stays great in the freezer for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to enjoy one, I thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, I prefer warming slices in the oven at 325°F for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method brings back the gentle crispness on top and keeps the interior creamy without drying out. You can also microwave it, but I recommend doing so at medium power in short bursts to avoid rubberiness. Avoid reheating straight from frozen to preserve that wonderful texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the frozen spinach before adding it to the recipe. This prevents excess moisture from making the quiche watery.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This quiche keeps well in the refrigerator and even freezes nicely, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping breakfasts, lunches, or light dinners throughout the week.
Can I add meat to this crustless quiche?
Definitely! Adding cooked bacon, ham, or sausage is a delicious way to boost the protein content and add smoky flavors. Just be sure to cook the meat fully before mixing it in.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese if I don’t have any?
You can use ricotta cheese or even plain Greek yogurt for a similar texture and tang. Both will maintain the creamy consistency but alter the flavor slightly. Experiment to find your favorite!
How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?
The quiche is done when the top is golden brown and the center is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan. Inserting a toothpick or knife in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe! It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in every bite—simple, wholesome, and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a quiet meal, I promise this recipe will become a cherished favorite that you’ll return to again and again. Give it a go, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!
Print
Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is a healthy and delicious baked dish, featuring sautéed vegetables combined with creamy cottage cheese, eggs, and shredded cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light meal, this easy-to-make recipe is low in carbohydrates and packed with protein and greens, making it a nutritious option for the whole family.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
Custard Mixture
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
Cheeses & Seasonings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or half cheddar, half mozzarella)
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Italian seasoning, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is at the perfect temperature for baking the quiche.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2–3 minutes. Season the vegetables with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and cottage cheese until well combined. Stir in Italian seasoning along with additional salt and pepper as desired.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold the sautéed vegetables and shredded cheese into the custard mixture, mixing gently until evenly combined.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the quiche mixture evenly into the dish, spreading it out smoothly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the quiche is golden brown on top and the center is set and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for 5–10 minutes. This resting time helps the quiche set further, making it easier to slice and serve.
Notes
- To add extra flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses such as half cheddar and half mozzarella.
- This quiche can be made ahead and refrigerated; reheat gently before serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cottage cheese and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, depending on the saltiness of the cheeses used.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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