Introduction
If you’re looking for a creamy, protein-packed breakfast that’s easy to make, cottage cheese quiche is exactly what you need. This twist on the classic quiche swaps heavy cream for cottage cheese, making it lighter, yet just as rich and satisfying. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, high-protein meal that works for breakfast, brunch, or even meal prep.
Not sure about cottage cheese? Don’t worry! Once it bakes into the quiche, it blends beautifully, creating a silky, custard-like texture. Whether you want a crustless cottage cheese quiche for a low-carb option or prefer a classic flaky pie crust, this recipe is easy to adapt. Let’s dive into how you can make the best cottage cheese quiche from scratch!
Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Quiche
✔ High in Protein – Packed with eggs, cottage cheese, and optional bacon or veggies, this quiche keeps you full for hours.
✔ Crust or Crustless – Make it with a traditional pie crust, or skip it for a low-carb, keto-friendly quiche.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Bake it once and enjoy slices all week for an easy, nutritious breakfast.
✔ Customizable – Add spinach, tomatoes, feta, or bacon to create your perfect version.
What Is Cottage Cheese Quiche?
Traditional quiche is made with heavy cream or milk, but this recipe uses cottage cheese instead. The result? A lighter, higher-protein dish that’s still incredibly creamy. Whether you go crustless for a keto-friendly option or bake it in a flaky pie crust, this quiche fits a variety of diets.
Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese Quiche
- Higher in protein compared to regular quiche.
- Lower in fat since it replaces heavy cream.
- Keto and low-carb-friendly when made without a crust.
- A great way to use up leftover veggies, cheese, or bacon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients:
- Cottage Cheese – Full-fat, low-fat, or fat-free all work!
- Eggs – The base of the quiche, providing structure and protein.
- Cheese – Try cheddar, Swiss, or feta for bold flavors.
- Milk (or Dairy-Free Alternative) – Almond milk is a great low-calorie option.
- Seasonings – Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Vegetables – Spinach, tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Meat – Bacon, ham, turkey bacon, or sausage for added flavor.
- Herbs – Fresh basil, chives, or thyme bring extra freshness.
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients
- If using a crust, blind bake it at 350°F for 10 minutes so it doesn’t get soggy.
- Cook any meats (like bacon or sausage) and drain the excess grease.
- Chop veggies and sauté them if they release a lot of moisture (like mushrooms or spinach).
2. Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, and milk until smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheese, cooked meats, and vegetables.
- Add seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg for extra depth.
3. Assemble & Bake
- Pour the mixture into your pre-baked crust (or greased pie dish if crustless).
- Bake at 350°F for 40-50 minutes, until the center is just set.
- Let the quiche rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese Quiche
🔥 Shred your own cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which affect melting.
🔥 Drain excess moisture – If using spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms, remove excess water before adding them to prevent a watery quiche.
🔥 Cover crust edges – If using a crust, cover the edges with foil halfway through baking to prevent burning.
🔥 Check doneness correctly – The center should still have a slight jiggle when removed—it will firm up as it cools.
Easy Substitutions & Variations
✔ Gluten-Free – Use a gluten-free pie crust or go crustless.
✔ Dairy-Free – Swap cottage cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use almond milk.
✔ Vegetarian – Skip the meat and add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini instead.
✔ Keto-Friendly – Make a crustless cottage cheese quiche with eggs, cheese, and low-carb vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your cottage cheese quiche with:
🥗 Fresh Salads – Arugula, cucumber, or a simple tomato salad.
🥓 Crispy Bacon or Sausage – A great protein boost.
🥑 Avocado Toast – A creamy, healthy addition to your breakfast.
🥂 Brunch Drinks – Serve with mimosas, coffee, or fresh orange juice.
💡 Great for:
- A quick weekday breakfast
- Brunch with friends
- A holiday meal like Easter or Mother’s Day
Storage & Reheating Tips
📌 Fridge: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
📌 Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, freeze for up to 3 months.
📌 Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 30-60 seconds.
Health & Dietary Benefits
🥚 High in Protein – Ideal for a muscle-building breakfast.
🥑 Lower in Fat – Less fat than traditional quiche made with heavy cream.
🍞 Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – A great low-carb option when crustless.
🥗 Great for Weight Loss – Cottage cheese is low in calories but high in protein, helping you feel full longer.
Recipe Variations
🔹 Spinach & Feta Quiche – Add crumbled feta and fresh spinach.
🔹 Bacon & Cheddar Quiche – A classic smoky, cheesy combo.
🔹 Tomato & Basil Quiche – A fresh, Italian-inspired version.
🔹 Low-Fat Quiche – Use low-fat cottage cheese and almond milk for a lighter version.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200-320 kcal |
| Protein | 15-20g |
| Fat | 10-18g |
| Carbs | 5-12g (lower if crustless) |
Try More Delicious Recipes
Love this cottage cheese quiche? Try these high-protein breakfast ideas:
📌 Simple Egg White Bites – A quick, high-protein snack!
📌 Spinach Egg Bake – Another savory, veggie-packed dish.
📌 Pumpkin Protein Muffins – A healthy, protein-rich muffin for brunch.
For the perfect brunch side dish, try:
📌 Sautéed Asparagus & Mushrooms – A nutritious, easy side.
📌 Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
How to Store & Reheat Cottage Cheese Quiche
Now that you’ve baked your cottage cheese quiche, let’s talk about the best ways to store and reheat it. Because let’s be honest—leftover quiche is just as delicious, if not better, the next day!
Storing in the Fridge
✔ Cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and soggy texture.
✔ Wrap slices in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
✔ Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing for Later
✔ Wrap the quiche (whole or in slices) tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
✔ Store in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
✔ For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Without Drying It Out
🔥 Oven Method (Best for crispy crust): Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
🔥 Microwave Method (Quick but can make it slightly softer): Heat in 30-second bursts until warm.
🔥 Air Fryer Method (Perfect balance of crisp and warmth): Heat at 325°F for 5-7 minutes.
Health & Dietary Benefits of Cottage Cheese Quiche
Why is cottage cheese quiche such a great choice? Not only is it delicious and versatile, but it’s also packed with protein and essential nutrients.
✔ High in Protein – Cottage cheese and eggs make this a powerhouse breakfast that keeps you full.
✔ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – Skip the crust, and you’ve got a low-carb, high-protein meal.
✔ Lower in Fat – Traditional quiche made with heavy cream and whole milk has way more fat and calories. This version keeps it lighter without sacrificing flavor.
✔ Supports Weight Loss – Cottage cheese is low in calories but high in protein, which helps control hunger and cravings.
Cottage Cheese & Its Nutritional Benefits
Did you know that cottage cheese is one of the best sources of casein protein? That means it digests slowly, helping keep you full for longer. Plus, it’s packed with calcium, B vitamins, and probiotics for a healthy gut!
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200-320 kcal |
| Protein | 15-20g |
| Fat | 10-18g |
| Carbs | 5-12g (lower if crustless) |
Delicious Recipe Variations to Try
One of the best things about cottage cheese quiche is how customizable it is. You can tweak the recipe to fit your preferences, whether you want something low-carb, vegetarian, dairy-free, or packed with bold flavors.
1. Spinach & Feta Quiche
✔ Add chopped fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
✔ Sprinkle in some fresh basil for extra flavor.
2. Bacon & Cheddar Quiche
✔ Classic and always a crowd-pleaser—bacon and cheddar are a match made in heaven.
✔ Swap cheddar for Swiss or Monterey Jack for a slightly different taste.
3. Tomato & Basil Quiche
✔ Use juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for a refreshing, light quiche.
✔ A drizzle of balsamic glaze takes it to another level.
4. Dairy-Free Quiche
✔ Swap cottage cheese for a dairy-free alternative like silken tofu blended with lemon juice and nutritional yeast.
✔ Use almond milk instead of regular milk.
5. Gluten-Free Quiche
✔ Go crustless for an easy gluten-free version.
✔ Or use a gluten-free pie crust (store-bought or homemade).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I make cottage cheese quiche ahead of time?
✔ Absolutely! Bake it the night before, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat before serving.
❓ Can I freeze quiche?
✔ Yes! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.
❓ How long does cottage cheese quiche last in the fridge?
✔ It stays fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
❓ Is cottage cheese quiche keto-friendly?
✔ If you skip the crust, it’s low in carbs and keto-approved!
❓ What’s the best cheese to use?
✔ Cheddar, Swiss, feta, and Monterey Jack are great options, but you can experiment with your favorites!
Try More Delicious Recipes
If you love this cottage cheese quiche, you’ll love these other high-protein breakfast ideas:
📌 Simple Egg White Bites – A quick, grab-and-go snack packed with protein!
📌 Spinach Egg Bake – Another savory, veggie-packed breakfast dish.
📌 Pumpkin Protein Muffins – A healthy, high-protein muffin perfect for meal prep.
And if you’re looking for perfect side dishes, try:
📌 Sautéed Asparagus & Mushrooms – A nutritious, easy-to-make vegetable side.
📌 Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery, and a great brunch pairing.
Final Thoughts: Make This Cottage Cheese Quiche Today!
There you have it—everything you need to make the perfect cottage cheese quiche! Whether you love it for meal prep, brunch, or just a quick, protein-packed breakfast, this recipe is a must-try.
🔥 Packed with protein
🔥 Super customizable
🔥 Easy to store & reheat
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get baking! And if you try this recipe, let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your favorite variations. Happy cooking! 😊