INTRODUCTION
When you’re craving something wholesome yet comforting, this cottage cheese & spinach crustless quiche might just become your new go-to. It’s quick, packed with nourishing protein, and delightfully light—yet satisfying enough for brunch, lunch, or dinner. From its creamy cottage cheese base to the fresh baby spinach folded in, every bite feels like a warm, home-cooked hug.
If you’re into easy gluten-free recipes that actually taste amazing, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re new here, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more comforting, feel-good recipes just like this one.
Section 1: The Story & Intro
A Brunch Favorite Born in My Tiny Kitchen
I’ll never forget the first time I made this cottage cheese & spinach crustless quiche. It was a chilly spring morning, and I had half a tub of cottage cheese and a handful of wilting spinach staring at me from the fridge. With zero crust ingredients and a growling stomach, I improvised—and the result was unexpectedly delicious.
Since then, this crustless quiche has been on heavy rotation at my house. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes, the best recipes come from making do with what you have. The cottage cheese adds a rich, creamy texture that bakes beautifully, while the spinach offers a pop of color and freshness that balances every bite.
The best part? No crust means no fuss. Just whisk, bake, and eat. It’s that simple.
Why This Recipe is Special
This dish brings together simple, affordable ingredients in the most flavorful way. Cottage cheese doesn’t just make it creamy—it adds protein, making the quiche hearty enough to stand on its own. With the addition of sautéed onions, sweet bell peppers, and just the right hint of Italian seasoning, every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
This quiche is ideal for anyone looking for:
-
A gluten-free meal option
-
A low-carb yet filling dish
-
A make-ahead meal prep recipe
-
Something you can serve hot or cold
And speaking of low-carb goodness, it pairs beautifully with Spinach and Feta Stuffed Phyllo Tart or even these zesty Lemony Chicken Ricotta Meatballs.

Section 2: Ingredients & Preparation
Ingredient Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this crustless masterpiece. Most are pantry staples, so you may already have them on hand.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
Small onion, diced | 1 |
Bell pepper, diced | ½ |
Baby spinach, chopped | 2 cups |
Cottage cheese | 1½ cups |
Eggs, large | 4 |
Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup (½ cheddar + ½ mozzarella) |
Milk | ½ cup |
Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
Salt & pepper | To taste |
Cottage cheese is the star here—it melts into the egg mixture, giving the quiche a delicate, custard-like texture. The cheese combo adds extra richness and stretchiness.
Tools & Smart Substitutions
No need for fancy tools—just a whisk, a skillet, and a 9-inch pie dish. If you don’t have cottage cheese, ricotta is a good alternative. No mozzarella? All cheddar works fine.
And for those who like to mix it up:
-
Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard.
-
Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
-
Toss in mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even crumbled sausage for a twist.
This dish also plays nicely alongside Greek Potato Salad or the hearty Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Spinach and Mushroom.
Cooking Instructions & Tips
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1 – Sauté the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium. Add your chopped onion and bell pepper. Stir occasionally and sauté until they soften and the onions look translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Then toss in the spinach and cook just until wilted, around 2 to 3 minutes.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2 – Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and cottage cheese until well combined. Stir in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Fold in the shredded cheese.
Now, gently add your cooled veggie mixture and combine everything thoroughly.
Step 3 – Bake It
Grease your pie dish and pour the mixture in, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden. Use a knife or toothpick to test—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go.
Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Tricks to Nail It
-
Room temperature eggs blend better into the mix.
-
Use full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
-
Don’t overbake. It should jiggle slightly in the center—residual heat will finish the job.
-
Want mini versions? Use a muffin tin and reduce the bake time to ~25 minutes.
Try pairing this quiche with a bright Mediterranean Chickpea Salad or serve it with crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini.
Serving, Storing & Pairing
What to Serve With It
This quiche shines on its own, but round out your plate with light and vibrant sides. I love it with a mixed green salad or fresh tomatoes in balsamic.
If you’re hosting brunch, include a side like Spinach and Artichoke Bagel Melts or offer up a refreshing Mediterranean Bowl with Turkey Meatballs.
A cold fruit salad, roasted asparagus, or a bowl of creamy soup also makes this a complete meal. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, this quiche never disappoints.

How to Store & Reheat
-
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
-
To freeze, wrap individual slices in foil and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
-
Reheat in the oven at 325°F or microwave in 30-second bursts until warm.
Make-ahead friendly and just as good cold, this dish checks all the boxes for busy weeknights and elegant brunches alike.
FAQ Section
Can I make this quiche dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based cheese and milk alternatives, and try tofu ricotta in place of cottage cheese.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Mix everything the night before and bake in the morning.
Can I add a crust if I want to?
You sure can. Just use a blind-baked pie crust and reduce the bake time slightly.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
Oven reheating keeps the texture best. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent rubberiness.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
It’s low-carb but not strictly keto unless you skip the milk or use a keto substitute.
Conclusion
If you’re after a wholesome, fuss-free dish that’s as delicious as it is nourishing, this cottage cheese & spinach crustless quiche is your new best friend. It’s the kind of meal that makes mornings brighter, dinners easier, and leftovers a joy.
You might also love trying Roasted Salmon with Creamy Spinach and Red Pepper or Pear and Pomegranate Spinach Salad as complementary recipes.
If you made this crustless quiche, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Rate the recipe below, leave a comment, or tag us on Pinterest at Recipes By Sylvia. Let’s keep the flavor conversation going!
Print
Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche – Gluten-Free & Creamy
- Total Time: 55
- Yield: 1 quiche (serves 4–6)
Description
This Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche is a protein-rich, gluten-free meal filled with creamy cottage cheese, tender spinach, sautéed veggies, and melted cheese—all without the crust!
Ingredients
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar/mozzarella blend)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté diced onion and bell pepper until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and cottage cheese. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Fold in shredded cheese, then stir in sautéed vegetables until evenly mixed.
6. Grease a 9-inch pie dish. Pour in the mixture and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and top is golden. Let cool 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
– Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest texture.
– Substitute kale or chard if you don’t have spinach.
– Shred your own cheese for better melt and fewer additives.
– Mini quiches? Use a muffin tin and reduce baking time to ~25 minutes.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 45
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 390
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 15
- Cholesterol: 165