Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche Lorraine Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful brunch treat that feels both comforting and a little bit fancy, the Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche Lorraine is going to be your new favorite. This dish is a lighter twist on the classic quiche, swapping the traditional buttery crust for a wholesome cottage cheese base that adds a lovely creaminess while keeping it lower in carbohydrates. Packed with savory bacon, rich Gruyère, and subtle hints of nutmeg, this quiche offers a perfect balance of flavors and a beautiful golden top that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a weekend breakfast or a special holiday brunch, the Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche Lorraine will impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a key role in building the beautiful texture and flavor you want in a quiche. From the creamy cottage cheese to the sharp Parmesan and smoky bacon, let’s break down how they shine in this recipe.

• 1 cup cottage cheese: This adds moist creaminess and a subtle tang that keeps the filling light and tender.
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Crispy bacon brings a smoky, savory crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft eggs and cheese.
• 4 large eggs: The eggs are the foundation, binding all the ingredients together for that classic quiche firmness.
• 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese: A key ingredient offering nutty, rich flavor and gorgeous meltability.
• 1/2 cup milk: Helps achieve the smooth, custardy texture throughout the quiche.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty punch and deepens the overall cheese profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a hint of warmth and spice to elevate the savory egg mixture.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that brings all the flavors into perfect harmony.

How to Make Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche Lorraine

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Bowl

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and ready for baking. While that’s warming up, grab a large bowl where you’ll combine the main ingredients. This simple step helps you organize and mix everything smoothly without any rush once you start adding cheese and bacon.

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs and Seasonings

In your large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully blended. Then add the ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. This mixture is the base of your quiche, and whisking it well ensures a smooth, custardy texture once baked. That dash of nutmeg is subtle but creates a lovely warmth that partners perfectly with the cheeses.

Step 3: Combine the Cottage Cheese, Bacon, and Cheeses

Next, stir in the cottage cheese, crumbled bacon, shredded Gruyère, and grated Parmesan. Folding these ingredients gently but thoroughly throughout the egg mixture ensures every bite has a perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and cheesy flavors.

Step 4: Transfer to Your Pie Dish

Grease a 9-inch pie dish to prevent sticking, then pour your mixture in. Spreading it evenly in the dish helps the quiche cook uniformly. This step makes it easy to get that signature golden top while the inside sets just right.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set

Pop your quiche into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the filling feels firm to the touch, not jiggly. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing to let everything settle, making for clean, beautiful slices every time.

How to Serve Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche Lorraine

Garnishes

A simple garnish can elevate your Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche Lorraine to brunch-star status. Fresh chives or parsley sprinkled on top add a pop of color and fresh, herbal brightness that complements the savory richness. A light dusting of paprika or cracked black pepper can also make your presentation feel even more special.

Side Dishes

Pair your quiche with crisp, fresh sides like a green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic. Roasted asparagus or sautéed mushrooms also work beautifully, providing textural contrast and earthy notes that balance the quiche’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning brunch spread, serve slices of the Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche Lorraine on colorful plates alongside artisan bread or mini fruit bowls. You can also cut the quiche into bite-sized squares for easy finger food at a casual gathering or brunch buffet. Presentation is half the fun, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your serving style!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche Lorraine keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly or place it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor. It’s perfect for quick breakfasts or easy lunches throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of this quiche for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil or use freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the texture stays creamy and smooth.

Reheating

Reheat the quiche gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you can, as slow heating helps maintain that lovely tender texture without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use regular cheese instead of Gruyère in the Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche Lorraine?

While Gruyère lends a unique nutty richness that’s iconic to this dish, you can substitute with Swiss cheese or even sharp cheddar. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile but stay delicious.

Is it possible to make this quiche vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for savory depth. You can also toss in some freshly chopped spinach or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and color.

Does the quiche need to be served warm?

While it’s best enjoyed warm or at room temperature to highlight the melty cheese and tender texture, the Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche Lorraine can also be eaten chilled and still taste fantastic.

Can I prepare this quiche the night before?

Yes, it makes a great make-ahead dish. Simply prepare the mixture and pour it into the pie dish, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning for an effortless and impressive breakfast or brunch.

How do I know when the quiche is done baking?

The quiche is ready when the edges are set and golden brown, and the center is firm but not rubbery. A gentle shake of the pan should show minimal jiggle, indicating a perfect custard texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a well-made quiche, and the Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche Lorraine checks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and ease. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, this dish offers a wonderful way to enjoy classic Lorraine flavors with a fresh and lighter twist. Give it a try soon — I promise it will become one of those recipes you return to again and again.

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