Waking up to a golden slice of something both hearty and light can truly elevate your morning. This Zucchini Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche shines as a delightful blend of creamy cottage cheese, savory cheddar, and tender ribbons of zucchini, all woven together with a whisper of garlic and onion powders. With just 15 minutes of prep, a quick whisk of eggs and milk, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, you’ll have a dish that feels indulgent without weighing you down. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you smile when you see it wobble gently in the oven, knowing that every bite will deliver that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Cozy enough for breakfast, yet elegant enough for a light lunch or casual dinner, this quiche hits the sweet spot between comfort and sophistication.
I still remember the first time I shredded zucchini from my spring garden and wondered how to turn it into something more exciting than a simple sauté. Combining it with cottage cheese felt like a playful experiment—and the result was nothing short of magic. The crumbly, moist crumb of a crustless quiche means fewer carbs and no fuss with rolling out pastry, so you can focus on the fun stuff: tasting, smelling, and sharing. Plus, with a cooking time of 45 minutes and a brief 10-minute rest before slicing, you’ve got a reliable timeline for planning brunch with friends or prepping a make-ahead breakfast for busy weekdays. At just around 320 calories per slice, it’s a guilt-free way to treat yourself, and the added boost of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives brings a bright, garden-fresh note that keeps you coming back for more.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ZUCCHINI COTTAGE CHEESE CRUSTLESS QUICHE
Every memorable dish starts with carefully chosen ingredients that complement and elevate one another. In this quiche, each component plays its part, from creating structure to delivering that irresistible cheesy flavor and fluffy texture. Here’s what you need:
- Shredded zucchini
Adds moisture, a mild grassy flavor, and a tender texture. Removing excess liquid helps prevent the quiche from becoming soggy while keeping it light.
- Cottage cheese
Provides a creamy base and adds protein. Its slight tang balances the richness of the cheddar cheese and gives the quiche a smooth, custard-like consistency.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Brings sharp, savory notes and a luscious melt. It also helps bind the ingredients as it warms, ensuring each slice holds together beautifully.
- Milk
Lightens the egg mixture and ensures a silky custard. It contributes to the quiche’s fluffy interior without overpowering the other flavors.
- Eggs
Serve as the main binding agent. They set into a tender custard that holds the quiche together and gives structure to all the mix-ins.
- All-purpose flour
Provides just enough bulk to stabilize the quiche without needing a crust. It helps absorb any leftover moisture from the zucchini.
- Olive oil
Prevents sticking and adds a subtle richness to the quiche’s base. A light coating keeps the pie dish pristine after serving.
- Baking powder
Offers a gentle lift for extra fluffiness, ensuring the quiche rises slightly and has an airy texture.
- Salt
Enhances all the flavors, from the mild zucchini to the tangy cottage cheese and sharp cheddar.
- Black pepper
Adds a mild heat and depth, balancing the richness of the cheeses and the sweetness of the zucchini.
- Garlic powder
Imparts a savory backbone without the need to chop fresh garlic, blending seamlessly into the custard.
- Onion powder
Contributes a subtle sweetness and aromatic warmth, complementing both the zucchini and the cheeses.
- Fresh herbs
A vibrant topping that adds color, freshness, and an herbal lift—choose parsley, dill, chives, or a blend for your signature twist.
HOW TO MAKE ZUCCHINI COTTAGE CHEESE CRUSTLESS QUICHE
Transforming these ingredients into a perfectly golden quiche is simpler than you think. You’ll progress from cracking eggs to a bubbling masterpiece in the oven, and with clear steps, you’ll nail this beginner-friendly recipe every time.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil to ensure easy release and a golden edge.
2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs until they’re smooth and homogenous, creating the foundation for a silky custard.
3. Add the milk and continue to whisk until the mixture is fully combined and slightly frothy, which helps incorporate air for lightness.
4. Stir in the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, ensuring every morsel is evenly distributed.
5. Squeeze the shredded zucchini in a clean towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture, then gently fold it into the egg mixture for tender bites without extra liquid.
6. Gradually incorporate the flour and baking powder, stirring until the batter is smooth and free of lumps, ensuring an even rise.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface for a uniform bake.
8. Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs over the top, creating a fragrant, colorful crust that bakes into the quiche’s crown.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the quiche is golden brown on top and set in the center—use a toothpick or knife to test for doneness.
10. Allow the quiche to cool slightly on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing; this resting period helps it firm up and makes serving neat slices a breeze.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ZUCCHINI COTTAGE CHEESE CRUSTLESS QUICHE
Once your quiche is baked to perfection, presentation and pairing can elevate the experience even further. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a light lunch, or enjoying a simple dinner, thoughtful serving touches can make each slice shine. Below are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Serve with a crisp salad
Pair warm quiche slices with a vibrant green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The crisp textures and zesty dressing cut through the creaminess for a harmonious plate.
- Accompany with fresh fruit
Arrange a side of seasonal berries or melon slices for a pop of color and natural sweetness. The juicy fruits offer a refreshing contrast to the savory quiche.
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt
A spoonful of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream adds creamy tang and a cool finish. Garnish with extra herbs for visual appeal.
- Turn into a picnic-ready snack
Wrap individual wedges in parchment paper or foil, add a few cherry tomatoes and olives, and pack in a cooler for an on-the-go brunch that stays delicious.
HOW TO STORE ZUCCHINI COTTAGE CHEESE CRUSTLESS QUICHE
Proper storage is key to maintaining that delightful texture and flavor long after the first bake. Whether you’re planning ahead for meal prep or preserving leftovers, these tips will ensure your quiche remains just as tasty the next day—or even the next month:
- Refrigeration
Once cooled to room temperature, wrap the quiche tightly in plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or a low-temperature oven.
- Freezing
For longer storage, slice the quiche into wedges. Place pieces in a freezer-safe container or wrap each slice in parchment followed by foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Make-ahead baking
Assemble the quiche the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. In the morning, simply pop it into the oven from cold; you may need to add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating techniques
To revive that fresh-from-the-oven taste, reheat slices in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes. A quick broil at the end can restore a golden top.
CONCLUSION
This Zucchini Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche captures the essence of a wholesome, beginner-friendly recipe that transitions seamlessly from breakfast to dinner. We’ve explored how creamy cottage cheese, sharp cheddar, and fresh zucchini come together in a fluffy, crust-free custard that’s both light and satisfying. With just 15 minutes of prep and a brief rest after its 45-minute bake, you’ll have a dish that’s ready to slice, serve, and savor. The simplicity of the ingredients and the clear steps mean even novice cooks can nail this recipe, while seasoned home chefs will appreciate the flavor depth unlocked by the garlic and onion powders, fresh herbs, and a hint of black pepper. Whether you’re a fan of vegetarian meals or simply looking for a healthy, protein-packed dish, this quiche checks all the boxes at around 320 calories per serving.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder for easy reference, or save it digitally for the next time you need an effortless yet impressive meal. Below you’ll also find a FAQ section to address any lingering questions about substitutions, tips for customization, and troubleshooting. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment with your thoughts, ask a question if you need clarification, or share any personal twists you added. Your feedback not only helps improve this guide but also inspires other home cooks to embrace the joy of a simple, delicious crustless quiche. Happy baking!
Zucchini Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche
Description
This Zucchini Cottage Cheese Crustless Quiche is a wholesome blend of flavors, bringing together creamy cottage cheese, savory cheddar, and fresh herbs for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil.
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In a large bowl, beat the eggs until they are smooth.
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Add the milk and continue to whisk until well combined.
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Stir in the cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Squeeze the shredded zucchini to remove excess moisture and then add it to the egg mixture. Mix well.
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Gradually incorporate the flour and baking powder, stirring until the ingredients are fully integrated.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish, spreading it evenly.
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Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs over the top of the quiche mixture.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the quiche is golden brown on top and set in the center.
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Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Note
- For a more robust flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg.
- This crustless quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Feel free to add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
- Serve with a crisp salad or fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal.
