Healthy Sour Candy Frozen Grapes
Tangy, refreshing frozen grapes from Healthy Little Peach—simple, wholesome ingredients for a kid-fr...
Effortless Spinach and Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche
21 December 2025
35
total time
4
servings
35 kcal
calories
Introduction
Effortless Spinach and Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche is a bright, adaptable dish that fits busy mornings, weekend brunch, and quick weeknight dinners. By using cottage cheese as the creamy binder instead of a traditional pastry crust, you get a lighter, protein-packed quiche that is naturally gluten-free and lower in refined carbs. Spinach adds iron, fiber, and color, while eggs provide high-quality protein and structure. This recipe is forgiving: you can swap in your favorite cheeses, adjust the greens, or whisk in a pinch of hot sauce or crushed red pepper for a quick kick. The result is a fluffy custard center with crisp, golden edges, a texture many crave in a crusted or crustless dish. The crustless format is ideal for meal prep: bake ahead, slice, and reheat portions in the microwave or oven with minimal effort. It also freezes well, so you can portion out several servings for future breakfasts or lunches. In addition to spinach, you can fold in chopped mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or diced bell peppers if you like. The key is balancing moisture and structure: you want enough eggs and cottage cheese to set, but not so much liquid that the quiche becomes watery. If you are new to crustless quiches, this recipe is a gentle, forgiving introduction that demonstrates the core technique—whisking a creamy mixture, pouring it into a dish, and baking until just set. Ready? Let’s gather ingredients and prepare your kitchen for success.
Gathering Ingredients
Before you start, assemble the core ingredients that give this crustless quiche its creamy texture and bright flavor. You’ll want 6 large eggs as the foundation, providing structure and protein. 1 cup cottage cheese creates that signature creamy bite without a crust, while 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) adds melt and savoriness. Two cups of fresh spinach offer color, iron, and fiber, and 1/2 cup finely chopped onion brings sweetness and depth. Minced garlic (2 cloves) amplifies the aroma without overpowering the dish. For moisture and tenderness, have 1/4 cup milk or cream on hand. A tablespoon of olive oil helps sauté vegetables without sticking, and a pinch of salt, pepper, and dried herbs (like thyme or oregano) season the mixture evenly. Optional add-ins such as chopped mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or red peppers offer color and variety, while fresh herbs like chives or parsley finish the dish with a vibrant finish. Wash and dry the spinach, chop the onions finely, and prepare a greased baking dish. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) so the quiche bakes evenly from edge to center. Organize your mise en place: you’ll whisk, sauté, and bake in a few simple steps. The goal is a balanced mixture that sets with a gentle jiggle but holds its shape when sliced. Think of this as a flexible blueprint you can adapt to your pantry and tastes.
Why this crustless quiche works
This crustless quiche shines for several reasons that make it a staple in homes with busy schedules. First, it delivers high-quality protein without relying on a pastry crust, which reduces both calories and gluten exposure for many eaters. Cottage cheese brings creaminess and moisture while keeping the texture light rather than dense, unlike heavy dairy superheroes. Spinach adds nutrients and a fresh, earthy note that pairs well with eggs and cheese. The absence of a crust also means you can customize portions easily, slice-and-store for grab-and-go meals, and reheat without worrying about soggy breadcrumbs or a soggy bottom. The flavor balance comes from a simple seasoning base: salt, pepper, garlic, and a touch of dried herbs. You can tailor the taste with subtle additions—nutmeg for warmth, smoked paprika for depth, or a hint of lemon zest for brightness. The recipe is vegetarian-friendly, and it adapts to other dietary needs by swapping cheeses or adding protein like diced ham for non-vegetarians. The beauty is in its versatility: it works as a breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner option, and it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. With a crustless approach, you enjoy a comforting, comforting slice that feels indulgent but remains economical and wholesome.
Prep and preheat for success
Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and preparing your baking dish. A 9-inch pie dish or a similarly sized casserole dish works well for even cooking. Lightly grease the dish with oil or butter to help the quiche release cleanly. While the oven warms, you’ll take the vegetables to the next level. Sauté the onion in a teaspoon of olive oil until it turns translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic for another minute to release its aroma. If you are adding mushrooms, peppers, or other vegetables, sauté them now to reduce moisture and ensure even cooking. Removing excess moisture is key to avoiding a watery quiche. You’ll want to thoroughly wilt the spinach and roughly chop it, then pat it dry between clean towels to extract as much moisture as possible. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, milk, salt, pepper, and any dried herbs you’re using. Stir in the sautéed onions and garlic, and fold in the spinach and half of your shredded cheese. The batter should be well combined but not overmixed, preserving some air for a light texture. Pour into the prepared dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crown. Bake until the center is just set and a knife inserted near the middle comes out clean, about 35–40 minutes. Allow the quiche to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing; this helps maintain clean cuts and ensures easier serving.
Cooking Process
The cooking process is where the magic happens, turning a bowl of ingredients into a cohesive, fluffy quiche with a custard-like center and a delicate crustless exterior. After whisking the eggs, cottage cheese, milk, and seasonings, you’ve created a batter that evenly coats the spinach and onions. The sautéed vegetables add depth and aroma, releasing sweet caramelized edges that balance the freshness of greens. When you pour the mixture into the prepared dish, you want it to look even and smooth. A gentle tap on the counter helps release any trapped air and encourages a uniform bake. The quiche bakes in the center of the oven for 35–40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is set, the edges pull away slightly from the dish, and a clean knife inserted into the center comes out with a custard-like moisture that jiggles just a little. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent burning while the center finishes cooking. Resting the quiche after baking is essential; it lets the proteins firm up, making it easier to slice. For a fluffier texture, you can try adding a splash more milk or a tablespoon of cream, or whisking the eggs a little longer before combining. This flexibility helps you tailor the final bite to your preferred creaminess and firmness.
Texture, flavor, and finishing touches
Texture is the heart of a great crustless quiche. The center should be custardy yet firm enough to hold its shape when sliced, with edges that have a delicate golden crust from the oven. The cottage cheese helps create that creamy middle, while the eggs provide structure. If you want a richer bite, use a mix of cheeses (for example, mozzarella for melt and parmesan for a subtle sharpness) or fold in a tablespoon of ricotta for extra silkiness. Spinach keeps the dish fresh and vibrant, but you can also experiment with baby kale or Swiss chard. A little nutmeg or smoked paprika can introduce warmth; fresh herbs like parsley or chives add brightness just before serving. For a lighter version, reduce the cheese by a small amount and increase the spinach volume to maintain moisture and color. When you’re ready to plate, slice the quiche into wedges and serve with a simple green salad, a radish and cucumber medley, or a light tomato vinaigrette. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of salsa can elevate the dish without overpowering the spinach and cottage cheese flavors. This combination keeps the dish balanced, satisfying, and easy to adapt to different tastes and occasions. Enjoy as a nourishing breakfast, a comforting lunch, or a satisfying dinner option.
Serving and final presentation
Presentation matters, even for a rustic crustless quiche. Begin by slicing the quiche into even wedges once it has rested. A clean, sharp knife helps you achieve neat portions without tearing the custard. Plate with purpose: a wedge on a clean white plate makes the colors of the spinach and melted cheese pop, and a light green salad on the side adds color contrast and crunch. Garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or dill to give a fresh aroma and a bright finish. If you’re serving this for a brunch, consider adding a bright tomato or cucumber salad, lightly dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. For a heartier meal, pair the quiche with roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or a small helping of brown rice or quinoa. The quiche also makes excellent leftovers; reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve the custard texture. If you want to add visual appeal, drizzle a tiny amount of olive oil over the top or sprinkle with a pinch of flaky salt just before serving. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this crustless quiche delivers comfort, nutrition, and vibrant flavor in every bite, with minimal effort. The result is a versatile dish that cooks up quickly and stores well for future meals.
Meal prep, storage, and make-ahead tips
One of the greatest benefits of a crustless quiche is how well it lends itself to meal prep. After it cools, portion the quiche into individual servings and store them in airtight containers for quick breakfasts or lunches. Refrigerated, it stays fresh for up to 4 days; for longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2–3 months. To reheat, cover and warm gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 12–15 minutes, or use a microwave in short bursts to avoid drying the center. If you’re preparing a crowd, you can bake a double batch and freeze a portion before the cheese melts completely on top; reheat from frozen as needed. To keep the quiche from becoming watery during storage, ensure the spinach is well-drained and consider using a slightly firmer cheese blend. When you’re planning meals, think about complementary sides that stay crisp as the main dish rests. A simple green salad, grilled asparagus, or roasted cherry tomatoes can elevate the plate without overpowering the quiche. For variety, keep a few pantry staples handy: frozen spinach, a tub of cottage cheese, and a couple of your favorite cheeses for quick flavor changes. With a few simple substitutions, this crustless quiche remains a reliable, budget-friendly option that saves you time without sacrificing taste.
Variations and troubleshooting
If you want to customize this crustless quiche, start with substitutions that keep the dish balanced. For a richer texture, swap some cottage cheese for a small amount of ricotta or replace part of the milk with cream. For a stronger cheese presence, increase shredded cheese by 1/4 cup and add a pinch of grated parmesan on top. If you prefer a lighter option, reduce the cheese and rely more on the eggs and spinach for structure. For non-vegetarian additions, fold in diced ham, turkey, or crumbled bacon, but adjust the salt to compensate for any extra seasoning from meat. The most common issue in crustless quiche is a watery center. To prevent this, remove excess moisture from spinach by thoroughly drying it after washing, and don’t overmix the batter to avoid packing air out of the mixture. If the quiche browns too quickly on top, tent with foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking. Finally, if you’re short on time, you can sauté and mix everything in a single pan and bake in a shallow dish to speed up cooking. With these tips, you can tailor the crustless quiche to fit any occasion, taste preference, or dietary need while keeping the preparation simple and reliable. Enjoy experimenting and sharing your favorite version.
Effortless Spinach and Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche
Protein-packed crustless quiche with spinach and cottage cheese—easy to make, low-carb, and perfect for breakfasts, lunches, or dinners.
total time
35
servings
4
calories
35 kcal
ingredients
- 4 large eggs 🥚
- 1 cup cottage cheese 🧀
- 1 cup fresh spinach 🥬
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar 🧀
- 1/4 cup milk 🥛
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 🧅
- 2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
- Pinch of salt 🧂
- Freshly ground black pepper 🧂
- Lightly greased pan spray olive oil 🫒
instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil spray.
- In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a blender or bowl, whisk the eggs, cottage cheese, and milk until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and shredded cheddar. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Pour the filling into the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until the quiche is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing; serve warm with a simple side salad.
related articles
Easy Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat
Master a crispy, melty Easy Grilled Cheese Burrito copycat with simple ingredients and a quick weekn...
Breakfast Taquitos with Scrambled Eggs and Avocado Crema
Crispy breakfast taquitos filled with fluffy scrambled eggs and avocado crema, perfect for busy morn...
Longhorn-Style Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Garlic and Parmesan
Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, garlic, and Parmesan. An easy, Texas-inspired side dish ...
Crispy Air Fryer Gnocchi with Garlic, Tomato & Spinach
Crispy air fryer gnocchi tossed with garlic, tomatoes and spinach for a quick, flavorful weeknight d...
Cottage Cheese and Chickpea Salad
A quick, protein-packed cottage cheese and chickpea salad with fresh veggies and lemon dressing. Per...
Tamago Sando (Japanese Egg Sandwich)
Master Tamago Sando with fluffy bread, silky tamagoyaki, and creamy mayo. Quick, customizable, and p...
Effortless Spinach and Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche
Protein-packed crustless quiche with spinach and cottage cheese—easy to make, low-carb, and perfect ...