Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche

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I’ve always believed that a good quiche should be more than just eggs and cheese—it should be rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. That’s why I love this Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent but is surprisingly light and nutritious. The creamy texture of the cottage cheese pairs beautifully with the earthiness of spinach, creating a dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick dinner.

What makes this quiche even more special is that it skips the crust entirely, which not only makes it gluten-free but also helps cut down on prep time and calories. I’ve made it dozens of times, tweaking little details along the way, and now it’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something easy but deliciously satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche

This crustless quiche hits all the right notes: it’s creamy, packed with protein, and layered with flavors. You’ll appreciate how simple it is to pull together with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a crowd for brunch, it bakes up beautifully every time and reheats like a dream. Plus, it’s low-carb and high in nutrition—so you get all the flavor without the guilt.

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What Kind of Cottage Cheese Should I Use?

I recommend using full-fat or 2% cottage cheese for the best texture and flavor. It gives the quiche a rich creaminess that you just don’t get from fat-free varieties. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the cottage cheese beforehand, but I like the slight curds—it adds character and pairs nicely with the soft spinach.

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Options for Substitutions

Don’t have spinach? Try kale, Swiss chard, or even sautéed zucchini. You can also play around with the cheese: shredded mozzarella, feta, or a bit of sharp cheddar all work well. If you want to boost the protein even more, you can toss in some cooked bacon, sausage, or diced ham. And for dairy-free folks, swap out the cottage cheese with a plant-based ricotta or tofu for a still-creamy texture.

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Ingredients for this Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche

• Eggs – These provide the structure and bind all the ingredients together.
• Cottage Cheese – Adds creaminess, protein, and a slightly tangy flavor.
• Fresh Spinach – Lightly cooked to release moisture; it brings freshness and color.
• Shredded Cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss work well to add richness and flavor.
• Milk – A splash of milk helps make the quiche light and custardy.
• Garlic – Minced garlic infuses the quiche with savory depth.
• Onion – Lightly sautéed onion adds sweetness and balance.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning the whole dish.
• Nutmeg (optional) – A pinch enhances the eggs and spinach subtly.
• Chopped Chives or Green Onions (for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and fresh bite at the end.

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Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Start by lightly wilting the spinach in a skillet over medium heat. No need to overcook it—just enough to release excess moisture. Drain and squeeze out any liquid to prevent a watery quiche.

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Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same pan, heat a little oil and sauté chopped onions until they’re soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

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Step 3: Whisk the Eggs and Dairy

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, and milk until well combined. Add a pinch of nutmeg if using.

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Step 4: Mix in the Vegetables and Cheese

Fold the sautéed onions, garlic, and spinach into the egg mixture. Stir in the shredded cheese. Season generously with salt and pepper.

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Step 5: Pour into Baking Dish

Lightly grease a round pie dish or an oven-safe skillet. Pour in the egg mixture and smooth the top with a spatula.

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Step 6: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

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How Long to Prepare the Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche

Prep Time: The hands-on prep takes around 15-20 minutes. This includes wilting the spinach, sautéing the onions and garlic, and mixing everything together. If you’re using pre-washed baby spinach and pre-shredded cheese, it can go even faster.

Bake Time: The quiche bakes for 35-40 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Once baked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes to firm up and cool slightly before slicing. In total, you’re looking at under an hour from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche

• Always squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the spinach to avoid a soggy texture.
• Use full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier, richer flavor.
• Let the quiche rest after baking to help it set—this makes for cleaner slices.
• Don’t overbake. The center should be just set with a slight jiggle.
• Grease your baking dish well to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using watery spinach: Too much moisture can ruin the texture. Always drain it well.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season the egg mixture—it needs salt!
• Using cold ingredients: Let eggs and dairy come to room temperature for better mixing.
• Overbaking: This can make your quiche rubbery and dry. Keep an eye on it during the final 10 minutes.
• Overloading with cheese or vegetables: It’s tempting, but too much can prevent it from setting properly.

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What to Serve With Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche?

1. Simple Arugula Salad

The peppery freshness of arugula with a lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy richness of the quiche.

2. Roasted Potatoes

Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside—perfect for a hearty brunch plate.

3. Fresh Fruit Salad

A colorful mix of berries, melon, and citrus adds a refreshing and sweet contrast.

4. Tomato Basil Soup

Pairing this quiche with a warm bowl of soup makes for a cozy, comforting lunch.

5. Toasted Sourdough or Whole Grain Bread

A slice of hearty bread is ideal for scooping up every bite.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Allow the quiche to cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Freezer: You can also freeze the quiche. Wrap it tightly in foil or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per slice, assuming 8 slices total)

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: ~300mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of cottage cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, or even silken tofu for a dairy-free alternative.

Can I make this quiche ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and reheat it in the morning. It keeps its flavor and texture beautifully.

Is this quiche keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein and fat, making it suitable for a keto diet.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all the moisture before adding it to the mix.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Definitely! Crumbled bacon, diced ham, or cooked sausage make great additions.

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Conclusion

This Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche is a wholesome, flavor-packed option that suits almost any meal of the day. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a protein-rich lunch, or a light dinner, this dish delivers. With its creamy texture, savory flavor, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe worth keeping in rotation. Plus, it’s easy to make, stores well, and pleases just about everyone at the table.

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