A protein-rich, low-carb quiche packed with spinach, cottage cheese, and eggs. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, meal prep, or a light dinner.
Servings
6 servings
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35–40 minutes
Total Time
50–55 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp oil (olive oil or avocado oil)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional)
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish or baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Skillet
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Cottage cheese
- Milk
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese if using.
Step 4: Assemble
- Spread the spinach and onion mixture evenly in the prepared dish.
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables.
- Gently stir once to distribute ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 35–40 minutes.
- The center should be set and the top lightly golden.
- A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Let the quiche rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Approximate Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (1/6 of quiche)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
Nutrition values are estimates and vary by ingredient brands.
Allergen Information
Contains
- Milk (cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, milk)
- Eggs
Does Not Contain
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Wheat
- Soy (unless present in specific dairy products)
Gluten-Free?
Yes, when all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Nut-Free?
The recipe contains no nuts. Always check labels if preparing food for someone with severe nut allergies.
Vegetarian?
Yes.
Keto-Friendly?
Relatively low in carbohydrates and suitable for many low-carb eating plans.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
- Wrap individual slices tightly.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
- Microwave: 30–60 seconds per slice.
- Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Variations
Mushroom Spinach Quiche
Add 1 cup sautéed mushrooms.
Bacon Spinach Quiche
Add ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon.
Mediterranean Version
Add:
- Feta cheese
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped olives
Extra Veggie Version
Add:
- Bell peppers
- Zucchini
- Broccoli
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw completely and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
Q: Can I replace cottage cheese?
Yes. You can substitute ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt, though the texture may differ slightly.
Q: Why is my quiche watery?
Common causes include:
- Not draining frozen spinach properly
- Overbaking
- Excess liquid from vegetables
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Bake the day before and refrigerate. Reheat before serving.
Q: Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely. Increase cheddar to 1 cup for a richer flavor.
Q: How do I know when it’s done?
The center should be set with only a slight jiggle. An instant-read thermometer should register about 160°F (71°C) in the center.
Q: Can children eat this?
Yes. It’s a family-friendly recipe with mild flavors and plenty of protein and calcium.
Q: What can I serve with it?
- Fresh fruit
- Green salad
- Roasted potatoes
- Toast
- Soup
Tips for Success
✓ Drain spinach thoroughly.
✓ Don’t overmix the egg mixture.
✓ Let the quiche rest before slicing.
✓ Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest texture.
✓ Grease the baking dish well for easy serving.
