Are you tired of the same old boring breakfast options that leave you hungry an hour later? Looking for something protein-packed yet deliciously light to start your day? As a culinary enthusiast who’s perfected dozens of breakfast recipes over the years, I’m excited to share my crustless cottage cheese breakfast quiche with you a dish that has become a morning staple in my home and among the FoodyDish.com community.
This crustless cottage cheese breakfast quiche promises creamy texture, balanced flavor, and enough protein to fuel your morning without weighing you down. And the best part? No fussy crust to prepare! In the following sections, I’ll walk you through choosing the right ingredients, preparation techniques, and serving suggestions to make this quiche absolutely perfect every time. Plus, I’ll share some clever variations to keep this recipe in your regular rotation without getting bored.
Why This Crustless Cottage Cheese Breakfast Quiche Works
- Uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your refrigerator
- Prep time under 15 minutes perfect for busy mornings or meal prep Sundays
- Protein-rich and satisfying without being heavy
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and seasonings
- Naturally gluten-free and low-carb friendly
- Makes excellent leftovers for quick breakfasts throughout the week
The beauty of this crustless cottage cheese breakfast quiche lies in its simplicity. By eliminating the crust, we not only reduce prep time and calories but also create a lighter, more protein-focused morning meal. The cottage cheese creates an incredibly creamy texture while boosting the protein content far beyond traditional quiches.
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Crustless Cottage Cheese Breakfast Quiche
Best Dairy Options for This Recipe
The foundation of this quiche is, of course, cottage cheese. I recommend using small or medium curd cottage cheese with 2% or 4% milkfat for the best texture. Low-fat versions can work but may result in a slightly drier quiche. The cottage cheese should be well-drained excess moisture can make your quiche watery.
For the cheese component, a good quality sharp cheddar provides excellent flavor, but don’t be afraid to experiment with Swiss, Gruyère, or feta for different flavor profiles.
Egg Selection
Farm-fresh, large eggs provide the best structure and flavor for this crustless cottage cheese breakfast quiche. You’ll need 6-8 depending on their size and your desired quiche thickness. Room temperature eggs incorporate better than cold ones, so consider setting them out while you prepare your other ingredients.
Fresh Ingredients and Additions
Fresh vegetables elevate this quiche from good to spectacular. Consider bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes just be sure to cook off excess moisture first. Fresh herbs like chives, dill, or basil add brightness without overwhelming the delicate egg flavor.
Ingredients & Prep for Crustless Cottage Cheese Breakfast Quiche
Ingredients List:
- 1½ cups cottage cheese (2% or 4% milkfat)
- 6 large eggs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for keto version)
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms)
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chives, dill, or basil)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Quiche Base Preparation
The key to a perfectly smooth quiche base is proper ingredient integration. Drain your cottage cheese if it seems watery, then blend or whisk it with eggs until relatively smooth though some texture is desirable. The small amount of flour helps provide structure without making the quiche heavy.
Vegetable Preparation
Always pre-cook vegetables to remove excess moisture. Sauté spinach until wilted, mushrooms until they’ve released their water, and bell peppers until slightly softened. Allow vegetables to cool before incorporating them into your egg mixture to prevent premature cooking.
Cheese and Seasoning Balance
Layer your flavors carefully the cottage cheese provides a blank canvas that benefits from thoughtful seasoning. Don’t skimp on salt, as eggs need proper seasoning to shine. A pinch of nutmeg works wonderfully with the creamy base, while a dash of hot sauce can add complexity without noticeable heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Crustless Cottage Cheese Breakfast Quiche
Pre-Cooking Quiche Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position a rack in the center.
- Thoroughly grease a 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs until light and frothy.
- Add cottage cheese and blend with an immersion blender or whisk vigorously until mostly smooth.
- Sprinkle in the flour and baking powder, whisking until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the shredded cheese, pre-cooked vegetables, herbs, and seasonings.
Baking Method for Perfect Quiche
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Optional: Sprinkle a small amount of additional cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the quiche is set around the edges but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
- For a beautiful golden top, switch to the broiler for the final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Doneness Check for Quiche Perfection
The key to a perfectly cooked crustless cottage cheese breakfast quiche is knowing when it’s done. Insert a knife about an inch from the center it should come out mostly clean with perhaps a bit of moisture, but no raw egg. Remember that the quiche will continue cooking slightly after removal from the oven.
Resting Your Breakfast Quiche
Allow your quiche to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This critical step lets the eggs fully set and makes for cleaner, more presentable slices. The quiche will deflate slightly as it cools this is normal and expected.
Pro Tips for Perfect Crustless Cottage Cheese Breakfast Quiche
Avoiding Common Quiche Problems
- Preventing a watery quiche: Always pre-cook vegetables to remove excess moisture.
- Achieving the perfect texture: Don’t overmix after adding flour this can make your quiche tough.
- Even cooking: Rotate your quiche halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots.
- Preventing cracks: Don’t overbake! Remove the quiche when it still has a slight jiggle in the center.
Essential Tools for Quiche Success
A high-quality ceramic or glass pie dish conducts heat evenly for the best results. An immersion blender makes quick work of integrating cottage cheese, though a regular blender or food processor works well too. A good whisk and silicone spatula are invaluable for mixing without incorporating too much air.
Storage & Reheating Guidance
This crustless cottage cheese breakfast quiche keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Slice and store individual portions for grab-and-go breakfasts. Reheat slices in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes until just warmed through. The quiche also freezes well for up to 2 months wrap individual slices tightly before freezing.
Flavor Variations for Crustless Cottage Cheese Breakfast Quiche
Mediterranean Quiche Variation
Transform this quiche with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast. Olives and artichoke hearts make excellent additions to this variation.
Herb Garden Quiche
Create an herb-forward version by increasing fresh herbs to 1/4 cup total. A mixture of chives, dill, basil, and parsley creates a vibrant, garden-fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cottage cheese base.
Southwest Breakfast Quiche
Add a kick with a southwest variation featuring diced green chilies, bell peppers, pepper jack cheese, and a pinch of cumin. Top with fresh avocado and cilantro after baking for a complete flavor experience.
Nutrition Comparison Table for Breakfast Options
| Breakfast Option | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Quiche (with crust) | 350-450 | 15g | 28g | 60+ minutes |
| Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche | 220-280 | 20g | 8g | 15 min prep + 40 min baking |
| Oatmeal with fruit | 200-300 | 5g | 40g | 10 minutes |
| Yogurt Parfait | 250-350 | 12g | 30g | 5 minutes |
Serving Suggestions for Crustless Cottage Cheese Breakfast Quiche
This versatile quiche works beautifully as a standalone breakfast or as part of a larger morning spread. For a complete breakfast, pair with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for brightness that contrasts nicely with the creamy quiche. For a more substantial meal, add Loaded Breakfast Sweet Potatoes or a slice of whole grain toast.
For brunches or special occasions, consider serving smaller slices alongside Christmas morning muffins and crepes with pumpkin filling for a varied breakfast buffet that offers something for everyone.
Fresh fruit provides a sweet counterpoint to the savory quiche berries or citrus segments are particularly complementary. For beverages, the quiche pairs beautifully with freshly squeezed orange juice, a light herbal tea, or coffee.
FAQs About Crustless Cottage Cheese Breakfast Quiche
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Absolutely! This quiche reheats beautifully and can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and reheat individual slices as needed.
Can I freeze this crustless quiche?
Yes, this quiche freezes well for up to 2 months. Cool completely, then wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
My cottage cheese seems very watery. Should I drain it?
Yes, if your cottage cheese has excess liquid, place it in a fine-mesh strainer for 15-30 minutes before using to ensure your quiche doesn’t become watery.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?
Certainly! Almond flour works well for a keto-friendly version, and a gluten-free flour blend can be substituted one-to-one for a gluten-free quiche.
How do I know when my quiche is fully cooked?
The quiche should be set around the edges but still have a slight jiggle in the center. A knife inserted about an inch from the center should come out mostly clean. The quiche will continue to firm up as it cools.

Time to Perfect Your Breakfast
Now you have everything you need to create a perfect crustless cottage cheese breakfast quiche that will revolutionize your morning routine. This protein-packed, versatile dish has become a staple in thousands of homes across our FoodyDish.com community, with many readers reporting it’s become their go-to breakfast for busy weekdays and lazy weekends alike.
Remember that the best cooking comes from making recipes your own don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables, cheeses, and seasonings to create your signature version. I’d love to see your creations, so if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends or save it to try later! I’d be thrilled to see your personal touch share your photos on Pinterest.
Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Crustless Cottage Cheese Breakfast Quiche: How to Make It Perfect
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Crustless Cottage Cheese Breakfast Quiche is a light, high-protein dish that’s perfect for busy mornings. Packed with eggs, cottage cheese, and colorful veggies, it’s fluffy, flavorful, and gluten-free ideal for meal prep or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients
6 large eggs
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup milk (or cream for a richer texture)
1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red or mixed colors)
1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
1/4 cup diced onion
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon chopped parsley or green onions (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the spinach and sauté until wilted, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
5. Stir in the cooked vegetables and mix until evenly combined.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
8. Allow to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve warm.
Notes
Use any mix of vegetables you like — mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli work great.
For added flavor, mix in cooked bacon, turkey sausage, or ham.
This quiche stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for meal prep.
Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick protein-packed breakfast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/6 of quiche)
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 410
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 17
- Cholesterol: 200
Keywords: cottage cheese quiche, crustless quiche, breakfast quiche, healthy breakfast, high protein, low carb
