Name: Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche: Protein-Packed Breakfast Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (9-inch) pie crust (homemade or store-bought); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained); 4 large eggs; 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional); Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Ever found yourself in a morning rut, scrambling for a breakfast that’s both satisfying and nutritious? We’ve all been there—reaching for that sugary cereal or skipping breakfast altogether because we’re pressed for time. But what if I told you there’s a protein-packed powerhouse that can revolutionize your morning routine? This Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche delivers extraordinary flavor while fueling your day with essential nutrients.

As a nutritionist with a passion for creating balanced meals that don’t compromise on taste, I’ve perfected this quiche recipe through countless test kitchen mornings. The combination of creamy cottage cheese and vibrant spinach creates a breakfast experience that’s both indulgent and energizing.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything from ingredient selection to pro cooking techniques. You’ll discover why this quiche has become a breakfast staple, how to customize it for different dietary needs, and the secrets to achieving that perfectly golden crust every time.

Why This Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche Recipe Works

This isn’t just any breakfast recipe—it’s a game-changer for busy mornings and meal prep enthusiasts alike:

Uses protein-rich cottage cheese for a lighter alternative to heavy cream
Comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time
Creates 8 servings perfect for weekly meal planning
Delivers 22g of protein per slice to keep you full until lunch
Works wonderfully for brunch gatherings or quiet family breakfasts

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Your Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche

Best Cheese Options for This Recipe

While cottage cheese forms the protein-packed base of this quiche, selecting the right supporting cheeses elevates the flavor profile. Opt for a high-quality feta for tanginess or a sharp cheddar for depth. The cottage cheese should be small or medium curd with 4% milkfat for optimal creaminess.

Spinach Selection Tips

Fresh spinach yields the best flavor, but frozen works in a pinch. If using fresh, look for bright green leaves without yellowing or wilting. Baby spinach offers a milder flavor, while mature spinach delivers more nutritional punch. Be sure to thoroughly squeeze out excess moisture after cooking to prevent a soggy quiche.

Crust Considerations

For convenience, a pre-made whole wheat crust provides fiber and nutty flavor. For a gluten-free option, try an almond flour crust or skip the crust entirely for a crustless cottage cheese spinach quiche that reduces carbs while maximizing protein.

Ingredients & Prep for Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche

Craving a protein-packed breakfast that's both delicious and nutritious? Our Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche recipe delivers a morning meal that fuels your day with flavor. Discover now! — Craving a protein-packed breakfast that’s both delicious and nutritious? Our Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche recipe delivers a morning meal that fuels your day with flavor. Discover now!

Quiche Base Essentials

Eggs: 5 large, room temperature
Cottage Cheese: 1½ cups (4% milkfat recommended)
Feta Cheese: ½ cup crumbled
Fresh Spinach: 10 oz (about 6 cups), wilted and drained
Onion: 1 small, finely diced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Pie Crust: 1 (9-inch) whole wheat or regular

Seasoning Components

Dried Dill: 1 teaspoon
Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon (freshly grated preferred)
Salt: ¾ teaspoon
Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
Red Pepper Flakes: ⅛ teaspoon (optional)

Need more breakfast inspiration? Check out these Breakfast Egg Muffins with Broccoli for another great meal prep option!

Step-by-Step Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche Instructions

Pre-Cooking Prep for Spinach Quiche

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
If using a store-bought crust, bring to room temperature for 15 minutes.
Sauté diced onion in 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until translucent (about 3 minutes).
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add spinach in batches, wilting it down, then transfer to a colander.
Press spinach mixture firmly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Assembling Your Cottage Cheese Quiche

In a large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy.
Fold in cottage cheese, crumbled feta, and all seasonings.
Mix in the cooled spinach-onion mixture until well combined.
Pour filling into the pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Optional: Sprinkle a little extra feta on top for a beautiful finish.

Baking Your Spinach Quiche to Perfection

Place quiche on a baking sheet (prevents spills and ensures even cooking).
Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
If crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil after 25 minutes.
Remove from oven and let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Resting and Serving Your Cottage Cheese Quiche

Let the quiche rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the proteins to set properly, making for cleaner slices and better texture. For the best flavor, serve slightly warm rather than piping hot.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche

Avoiding Common Quiche Mistakes

Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes for extra crispness
Always drain spinach thoroughly—moisture is the enemy of flaky crust
Use room temperature ingredients for more even cooking
Don’t overmix the egg mixture—fold gently to maintain airiness

Kitchen Tools for Quiche Success

A deep-dish pie plate provides ample space for filling
A good box grater makes quick work of additional cheese toppings
Silicon pie shields protect crust edges from over-browning
An instant-read thermometer ensures perfect doneness (should read 165°F)

Storage & Reheating Guidelines

Store leftover quiche covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results when reheating, place slices in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes rather than using a microwave, which can make the crust soggy.

Looking for more protein-packed recipes? Check out my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken for another crowd-pleaser!

Flavor Variations for Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche

Mediterranean Twist

Transform your quiche with sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and fresh oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast. The tangy olives complement the creaminess of the cottage cheese perfectly.

Herb-Forward Version

Elevate your quiche with a fresh herb medley: chives, basil, parsley, and thyme create a garden-fresh flavor profile that brightens up the entire dish.

Veggie-Loaded Option

Add roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and zucchini for an antioxidant-rich variation that doubles your vegetable intake while maintaining the protein punch.

Variation	Added Ingredients	Cooking Adjustments	Nutritional Impact
Mediterranean	Sun-dried tomatoes, olives, oregano	None needed	+2g fiber per slice
Herb Garden	Fresh herb mix, lemon zest	Reduce salt by ¼ tsp	Lower sodium option
Veggie Loaded	Roasted peppers, zucchini, artichokes	Extend cooking time by 5 min	+4g fiber, +vitamins A & C
High Protein	Add ½ cup diced chicken or turkey	None needed	+7g protein per slice

For appetizer inspiration that pairs perfectly with quiche for brunch, try my Three Cheese Tomato Bruschetta Dip.

Serving Suggestions for Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche

Start your day right by pairing this protein-rich quiche with complementary sides:

Fresh fruit salad with berries and mint
Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
Roasted breakfast potatoes with rosemary
Greek yogurt topped with honey and walnuts

For beverages, consider:

Fresh-squeezed orange juice
Hot black tea with a cinnamon stick
Sparkling water with cucumber and mint
Rich coffee with a touch of cinnamon

Love international flavors? Don’t miss my Thai Basil Beef Mince Spring Rolls for another delicious recipe!

FAQs About Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche

Can I make this quiche ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire quiche up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. Alternatively, prepare the filling and store it separately from the crust, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, this cottage cheese spinach quiche freezes beautifully. Cool completely, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes.

Can I make this quiche crustless?

Definitely! Simply grease your pie dish well, pour in the filling, and bake as directed. You may need to reduce the cooking time by about 5 minutes. This creates a gluten-free, lower-carb version that’s perfect for keto dieters.

How do I know when my quiche is perfectly done?

The quiche is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle—like gelatin. An instant-read thermometer should register 165°F in the center. Remember, the quiche will continue cooking slightly as it rests.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, substitute one 10-oz package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and very well drained (squeeze in a clean kitchen towel to remove all excess moisture). This saves prep time without sacrificing flavor.

For more recipe ideas and cooking tips, follow my collection on Pinterest where I share weekly meal prep inspiration perfect for busy home cooks!

Final Thoughts

This Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche represents the perfect balance of nutrition and indulgence. The protein-rich profile makes it ideal for active lifestyles, while the versatility means you can adapt it to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, meal prepping for busy weekdays, or simply looking to upgrade your breakfast routine, this quiche delivers on all fronts. The creamy texture from cottage cheese, the earthiness of spinach, and the golden, flaky crust come together to create a breakfast experience that feels special while providing lasting energy.

Give this recipe a try, and I’m confident it will become a regular in your breakfast rotation. And remember—breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated to be extraordinary!

Cottage Cheese Spinach Quiche: Protein-Packed Breakfast Bliss