Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Results

Creating this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is straightforward, but following the proper technique ensures the best texture and flavor.

Preparing Your Kitchen and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F and position a rack in the center. Generously grease a 9-inch pie dish or a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Some cooks prefer lining the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal, though this isn’t strictly necessary.

Set out all your ingredients and allow the eggs and cottage cheese to come to room temperature. This step helps everything blend smoothly and promotes even baking. Room-temperature ingredients also reduce the risk of a rubbery texture.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes. The onions should smell sweet and fragrant but not browned. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic.

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring constantly until wilted. Fresh spinach reduces dramatically in volume, so don’t be alarmed when three cups shrinks to less than half a cup. If using frozen spinach, ensure you’ve squeezed out every bit of excess moisture—this prevents a watery quiche.

Season the vegetables with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat and let cool slightly while you prepare the egg mixture. This cooling step prevents the hot vegetables from cooking the eggs prematurely.

Creating the Egg and Cheese Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly until the yolks and whites are completely combined. Add the cottage cheese and whisk until relatively smooth. Small lumps of cottage cheese are perfectly fine and add pleasant texture to the finished quiche.

Stir in the shredded cheese and Parmesan, followed by the flour and baking powder. The flour helps bind everything together and provides structure, while the baking powder creates a lighter, fluffier texture. Whisk until no dry flour pockets remain visible.

Combining and Assembling Your Crustless Quiche

Fold the cooled spinach mixture into the egg and cheese base. Stir gently but thoroughly to distribute the vegetables evenly throughout. If you’re adding optional ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms, incorporate them now.

Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring the vegetables are distributed throughout rather than settled at the bottom. Tap the dish gently on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles trapped in the batter.

Baking to Golden Perfection

Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The exact timing depends on your pan depth—deeper dishes require longer baking. You’ll know the quiche is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles, the edges have pulled away slightly from the pan, and the top has developed a beautiful golden-brown color.

Insert a knife into the center—it should come out clean. If you notice any wet egg mixture on the knife, bake for an additional 5 minutes and test again. The internal temperature should reach 160°F when measured with an instant-read thermometer.

Cooling and Serving Your Quiche

Remove the Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting. During this resting period, the eggs continue setting, making slicing much cleaner and easier.

Cut the quiche into wedges or squares, depending on your baking dish shape. Serve warm or at room temperature—both are delicious. Garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

Creative Variations to Try

The basic recipe provides an excellent foundation, but customization makes it truly your own. Here are variations I’ve tested and loved.

Mediterranean-Inspired Version

Replace the regular shredded cheese with feta and add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and fresh oregano. This combination transports you straight to the Greek islands. The salty, briny flavors complement the cottage cheese beautifully.

Southwestern Crustless Quiche

Add diced green chiles, corn kernels, and use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. Top with avocado slices and salsa when serving. This variation adds exciting heat and vibrant colors that appeal to adventurous eaters.

Mushroom and Herb Delight

Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions and add fresh thyme and rosemary. Use Gruyère cheese for a sophisticated French-inspired flavor profile. This earthy combination feels especially appropriate for autumn brunches.

Tomato Basil Cottage Cheese Quiche

Fold in halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. The tomatoes release their juices during baking, creating pockets of bright flavor. This summery version celebrates peak tomato season beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 245
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 215mg
• Sodium: 620mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 11g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 20g

This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche provides impressive protein content while remaining relatively low in calories. The high protein keeps you satisfied for hours, making it ideal for weight management.