In the kitchen, I often find myself in the midst of a mini crisis: what to make for dinner that’s both nutritious and delicious—without spending hours cooking. That’s where my Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche comes to the rescue! This dish is a wholesome, high-protein delight that’s effortlessly customizable, making it perfect for those nights when I crave something light yet satisfying. The crustless design means I can indulge without the heaviness, and leftovers are meal prep gold—just pop them in the fridge for a quick breakfast or lunch. If you’re tired of fast food and looking for a new go-to recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition, you’ll want to stick around for this quiche. What will you add to your own creation?
Why is this quiche a must-try?
Nutrient-Packed Goodness: This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is not just delicious; it’s loaded with protein and other essential nutrients.
Customizable: Simple to tweak with your favorite veggies or cheeses, it can effortlessly match your taste preferences.
Easy Meal Prep: Perfect for busy lifestyles, make it ahead of time and just reheat for a quick, nutritious meal.
Light Yet Satisfying: Experience all the savory deliciousness of a classic quiche without the heaviness of a crust.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, it’s bound to impress family and friends—just like my Cottage Cheese Mushroom Soup!
Versatile Pairing Ideas: Serve it alongside a simple salad or fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal. You’ll be coming back for seconds!
Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Ingredients
For the Base
• Eggs – Essential for structure and protein, giving the quiche its fluffy texture.
• Milk – Adds moisture and richness; opt for almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• Cottage Cheese – Provides creaminess and is packed with protein; ensure it’s well-drained for the best consistency.
For the Vegetables
• Spinach – Offers vibrant flavor and nutrients; fresh is best, but frozen works if drained properly.
• Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing veggies; butter can be used for a richer taste.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; yellow onion is ideal, while shallots lend a milder flavor.
• Bell Pepper – Gives color and sweetness; any variety of bell pepper will do.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances overall flavor; substituting with fresh garlic will intensify the taste.
For the Seasoning
• Italian Seasoning – Elevates the flavor profile with herbal notes; feel free to customize with your favorite herbs.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
For Finishing Touches
• Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Other) – Adds a creamy texture and flavor; can substitute with mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese for a personal touch.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to fully heat while you prepare the quiche. This ensures your Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche cooks evenly and reaches that perfect golden-brown finish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing them for about 3–4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent any burning, ensuring a sweet, tender base for your quiche.
Step 3: Add the Spinach
Once the onions and peppers are tender, add in 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring until the spinach is wilted and vibrant. Season the mixture with a dash of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste, infusing the flavors throughout the veggies.
Step 4: Whisk the Egg Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 1 cup of well-drained cottage cheese until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, forming the delicious base for your quiche. Stir in a teaspoon of Italian seasoning, ensuring the herbs are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Fold the sautéed vegetable mixture into the egg base gently, mixing until everything is well incorporated. Then, add in 1 cup of shredded cheese of your choice, folding it in as well. This will add creaminess and flavor to your Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9-inch pie dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is crucial, as it ensures your quiche releases beautifully after baking. Pour the combined mixture evenly into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for a nice finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the pie dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. You’ll know your quiche is done when it’s golden brown on top and set in the center—there should be no jiggle when you gently shake the dish.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This cooling time allows the slices to hold together nicely. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy every delightful bite!
How to Store and Freeze Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche
Fridge: Store leftover Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The quiche will maintain its quality for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the quiche in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, use the microwave for a quick option, but avoid overheating to keep it fluffy.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This helps retain the moist texture and flavor, ensuring your quiche tastes just as delightful as when it was freshly made.
What to Serve with Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche
Indulge in a delightful culinary adventure as you create a full meal experience around this creamy quiche, elevating it to something truly special.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to the quiche, balancing its creamy texture.
- Whole-Grain Toast: Serve with slices of whole-grain toast for a wholesome breakfast option; perfect for soaking up any leftover eggy goodness.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus with olive oil brings earthy flavors and a slight crispness, perfectly contrasting the softness of the quiche.
- Tomato Basil Bruschetta: This savory topping adds a burst of freshness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor of your meal; the perfect spring complement.
- Savory Fruit Salad: The sweetness of a fruit salad, perhaps with berries and mint, harmonizes the savory qualities of the quiche, creating a delightful mix.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing sparkling lemonade provides a zesty kick to cleanse your palate between bites of creamy quiche—simply delightful!
- Yogurt Parfait: For a sweet touch, a yogurt parfait with granola and colorful fruits serves as an excellent side dish that can double as dessert.
- Herbed Quinoa: Quinoa tossed with herbs offers a hearty, nutritious side that amplifies the meal while pairing wonderfully with the quiche’s flavors.
- Fluffy Scrambled Eggs: For a protein-packed breakfast, fluffy scrambled eggs alongside the quiche make for a fulfilling, hearty morning spread.
- Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Complete your meal with a light yet rich chocolate mousse; the perfect ending to an elegant quiche-centric dining experience!
Expert Tips for Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche
Cool Vegetables First: Ensure your sautéed vegetables cool slightly before adding to the egg mixture. This prevents unwanted curdling, keeping your Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche creamy.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the time—overbaking can lead to a rubbery texture. Look for a golden brown top and a firmer center to maintain that delightful fluffiness.
Meal Prep Magic: This quiche is perfect for meal prep! Make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days, or freeze for three months.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to get creative! Add mushrooms, tomatoes, or fresh herbs to tailor the flavor and make the Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche uniquely yours.
Using Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: While fresh spinach offers vibrant flavor, you can use frozen spinach in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Variations
Let your imagination run wild with these delightful twists on the classic quiche!
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Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the spinach beautifully. This addition brings a lovely umami richness to every bite.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap cottage cheese and regular milk for almond milk and plant-based yogurt, creating a smooth, creamy texture without the dairy. It’s perfect for those following a dairy-free lifestyle!
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Herb Explosion: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or basil to intensify the flavor profile. The fresh bursts will bring a vibrant taste that elevates your quiche to a new level of deliciousness.
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Spicy Kick: Spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This touch adds a lively heat that will awaken your taste buds, making every bite exciting.
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Zucchini Zest: Incorporate grated zucchini for added moisture and nutrients. It’ll give your quiche a slight sweetness and a lovely texture twist, ensuring it stays light and fluffy.
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Feta Fiesta: Substitute shredded cheese with crumbled feta for a tangy flavor boost. This brings a Mediterranean vibe that pairs wonderfully with the spinach!
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Tomato Twist: Add diced tomatoes for a juicy burst of sweetness. Their moisture can enhance the overall flavor, creating a delightful contrast to the creamy cottage cheese.
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Savory Bacon: For a meaty addition, consider crispy bacon or diced ham. The salty crunch gives a satisfying texture and flavor contrast that’s hard to resist.
When you’re looking to add some excitement to your quiche, remember that my Cottage Cheese Mushroom Soup or goat cheese grilled cheese with honey bliss are also great recipes to explore!
Make Ahead Options
These Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the onions, bell pepper, and spinach up to 24 hours in advance, letting them cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The egg mixture can also be prepared ahead; whisk the eggs, milk, and cottage cheese together, and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the prepped veggies with the egg mixture and fold in the cheese before pouring into the greased dish. This makes for an effortless, time-saving dish that’s just as delicious when baked fresh!
Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best spinach for my quiche?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, opt for vibrant, crisp spinach with no dark spots or yellowing leaves. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained to prevent excess moisture, which can make the quiche soggy.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of the Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche?
Very simple! Place any leftover quiche in an airtight container in the fridge where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy quick and nutritious meals throughout the week!
Can I freeze Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche?
Of course! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my quiche turns out watery?
Oh no! If your quiche is watery, it’s likely due to excess moisture from the vegetables or cottage cheese. Make sure to adequately drain your spinach and use well-drained cottage cheese. If you’ve already prepared it, try serving it with a side of whole-grain toast to soak up the extra moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for someone with lactose intolerance?
Very much so! You can substitute the milk and cottage cheese with lactose-free versions or plant-based alternatives like almond or soy milk and vegan cream cheese. This will keep the quiche creamy and delicious while catering to lactose intolerant dietary needs.
Can I add different vegetables or cheeses to the quiche?
Absolutely! The Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is highly customizable. Feel free to mix in other veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even some diced tomatoes. You can also experiment with various cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese to find your favorite flavor combination!
Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche: Healthy & Delicious
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and bell peppers, sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add in 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 1 cup of well-drained cottage cheese until smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
- Fold the sautéed vegetable mixture into the egg base, then add in 1 cup of shredded cheese, folding it in gently.
- Grease a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil. Pour the mixture into the dish, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown on top and set in the center.
- Cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
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