A healthy twist on a classic quiche, this Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche is creamy and satisfying, making it perfect for any meal from brunch to dinner.
Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche: A Wholesome Twist on a Classic Favorite
There’s something magical about the aroma of a quiche baking in the oven. It brings me back to lazy Sunday mornings at my grandmother’s house, where the kitchen was filled with warmth and laughter. The rich, savory flavors combined with the soft texture of creamy fillings made breakfast a cherished family tradition. Today, I’m excited to share with you my twist on this beloved dish: a Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche, which captures that same nostalgia with a healthy twist!
The beauty of this Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche lies not just in its lightened-up ingredient list but also in its luscious texture that’s creamy yet satisfying. The cottage cheese adds a delightful richness while keeping it low-carb. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends alike.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese (use low-fat or dairy-free if preferred)
- 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite variety)
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or any leafy greens)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Feel free to add cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor!
Let’s Get Cooking!
Preheat your trusty oven to 375°F (190°C). As it warms up, assemble your ingredients. Grab a large mixing bowl, and whisk the eggs until they’re fluffy and bright yellow. Stir in the cottage cheese and milk until you have a smooth mixture. The secret to a luscious quiche lies here; it creates that creamy base we all love.
Next, incorporate the shredded cheese, followed by the sautéed onions and diced bell peppers. I love giving the veggies a quick sauté beforehand — not only does it bring out their sweetness, but it also softens them nicely. Don’t forget to toss in the spinach and seasoning! Taste as you go; a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper can really elevate the flavor.
Grease a pie dish or a round baking pan with a touch of oil or butter – this helps with easy removal later. Pour your colorful mixture into the dish, smoothing it out gently with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions
Brunch Delight: Serve slices of your quiche with a mixed greens salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens perfectly complements the rich, cheesy quiche.
Cozy Dinner: Pair your quiche with a side of roasted veggies or a hearty tomato soup for a comforting evening meal. The flavors are fantastic together!
Meal Prep Option: Slice the quiche into wedges and pack with fresh fruit for quick grab-and-go breakfasts. Perfect for busy mornings when you need something substantial but hassle-free!
Tips and Variations
Want to customize this quiche? Here are a few ideas for you!
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a flavorful heat.
- Vegan Twist: Swap the eggs and milk for a mixture of silken tofu and almond milk blended until smooth, and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
- Extra Protein: Incorporate diced cooked chicken or turkey sausage into the mix for a heartier meal.
Q&A Section
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This quiche stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month.
What can I leave out if I don’t like certain vegetables?
Feel free to swap out any vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, zucchini, or even grated carrots work wonderfully.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! With no crust or flour, this quiche is gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.
Behind the Scenes
When I first experimented with this recipe, I was a little hesitant about using cottage cheese. Would it deliver that creamy texture I remembered? After a few tries of different cheese types, I found the perfect balance — cottage cheese not only kept the quiche light but also added a lovely richness without the carbs! My family was delighted to devour the final result, declaring it a new favorite.
Final Thoughts
Enjoy this Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche any time of day. Its versatility allows for endless variations, catering to whatever mood or ingredient you have on hand. Whether it graces your brunch table or acts as a cozy dinner centerpiece, I promise it’s a dish that will warm your heart. Serve it alongside a fruity smoothie or a glass of sparkling water to make it extra special.
Can’t wait for you to try it!
Main ingredients
- 4 large large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese (use low-fat or dairy-free if preferred)
- 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite variety)
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or any leafy greens)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional add-ins
- cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes For extra flavor!
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until fluffy and bright yellow.
Stir in the cottage cheese and milk until smooth.
Incorporate the shredded cheese, followed by the sautéed onions and diced bell peppers.
Add the spinach and seasoning, mixing well.
Grease a pie dish or round baking pan with a touch of oil or butter.
Pour the mixture into the dish, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
You can customize this quiche with fresh herbs, spicy ingredients, or protein additions. This quiche can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Swap out any vegetables for your favorites.