Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche. It’s one of those recipes that has earned a special place in my heart (and my kitchen). With its wholesome ingredients and delightful flavors, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or family brunches. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that packs in protein without the fuss of making a crust?

This quiche is not just tasty; it’s so flexible! You can whip it up quickly and enjoy leftovers the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. So let’s dive into why you’re going to love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This quiche comes together quickly with simple steps, perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness packed with nutritious spinach.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it ahead of time, and you’ll have a hearty breakfast or lunch ready to go!
• Flavorful & Healthy: Packed with protein from cottage cheese and loaded with veggies, this dish is as good for you as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients to make Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche; just good, wholesome staples that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you need:

For the Filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or half cheddar, half mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is how easily it can be customized to suit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add different greens: Swap out spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a new twist on flavor.
• Mix in other veggies: Toss in some chopped tomatoes or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Change up the cheese: Try feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy kick.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you want some heat!

How to Make Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before you start mixing everything together, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your quiche bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until they soften (about 3–4 minutes). This step adds wonderful depth of flavor to your quiche.

Step 3: Add Spinach

Next, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook until wilted—this usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cooking the spinach helps release its moisture and enhances its flavor.

Step 4: Whisk Together Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and cottage cheese until well combined. Then stir in Italian seasoning along with additional salt and pepper. This mixture creates a creamy base that holds everything together.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Gently fold in the shredded cheese along with your sautéed vegetables into the egg mixture. Ensure everything is mixed well; each bite should be packed with deliciousness!

Step 6: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease a 9-inch pie dish so nothing sticks during baking. Pour your quiche mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Place your dish in the oven and bake for about 40–45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center sets nicely. Let it cool for about 5–10 minutes before slicing—this makes serving easier!

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve warm or at room temperature. This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is perfect for brunch or even as a light dinner alongside a salad.

And there you have it! A delightful dish that’s not only satisfying but also brimming with flavor—perfectly suited for any gathering or simply enjoying at home. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Creating the perfect Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is a rewarding experience, and a few handy tips can make it even better!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cottage cheese not only enhance flavor but also add nutritional value to your dish.

• Let the vegetable mixture cool: Allowing the sautéed vegetables to cool slightly before adding them to the egg mixture prevents curdling and ensures a creamy texture.

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is delightful, mixing in mozzarella or even feta can provide unique flavors and textures, making each quiche a new adventure.

• Check for doneness: The quiche should be set in the center and golden on top. If you’re unsure, use a toothpick or knife to check; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.

• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheating them will keep them tasty for your next meal!

How to Serve Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

This quiche is not only delicious but also versatile in presentation! Whether it’s brunch, lunch, or dinner, here are ideas on how to serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors of the quiche.

• Sliced cherry tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a burst of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory quiche.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the quiche while adding a refreshing crunch.

• Roasted potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that complements the lightness of your quiche perfectly.

• Fruit platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and citrus provides a sweet contrast that brightens your plate and makes for an inviting meal.

• Whole grain toast: Serve slices of whole grain bread on the side for added texture. You can even spread some avocado for extra creaminess!

Enjoy your Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche any way you like! It’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some tips for storing and reheating your delicious quiche.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The quiche will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• For best taste, consume within the first few days.

Freezing

• Cut the quiche into individual slices before freezing for easy portions.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen slices, thaw overnight in the fridge, then follow the same microwave instructions or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

You might have some questions about making this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche. Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use other vegetables in this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap spinach for other greens like kale or add in veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes based on your preference.

Is Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche healthy?

Yes! This quiche is packed with protein from cottage cheese and eggs while being low in carbs since it has no crust. It’s a nutritious option for breakfast or brunch.

How long does Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 4 days in the fridge. Enjoy it as part of your meal prep!

Can I make this quiche dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute cottage cheese with vegan alternatives like cashew cheese or tofu blended with nutritional yeast. Use plant-based milk instead of regular milk as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche as much as I do! It’s not only tasty but also versatile enough to fit into your busy week. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Happy cooking!