Crustless Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe for Every Occasion

If you’re on the hunt for a healthy, filling, and flavorful dish, this crustless ricotta and spinach quiche has you covered. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner, this quiche combines the creamy textures of ricotta and mozzarella with the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach, garlic, and onion. Skipping the crust not only simplifies the cooking process but also makes this quiche lower in carbs and calories, making it ideal for various dietary needs.

Here’s everything you need to know to make this quiche a go-to favorite, plus some tips and variations to truly make it your own!

Why Make a Crustless Quiche? Benefits of Going Crust-Free

The crust is often the trickiest part of any quiche, both in terms of preparation and dietary impact. Here’s why a crustless quiche is such a smart option:

1. Lower Carbohydrates: By removing the crust, you skip the additional carbs, which can be beneficial for low-carb and keto diets.
2. Saves Time: No need to roll out, chill, or pre-bake a crust. Just prepare your ingredients, pour, and bake.
3. Easier to Prepare: Crustless quiches are less intimidating for beginner cooks and take less time to put together.
4. Healthier Option: Without the crust, the dish becomes lighter and allows the flavors of the cheese, spinach, and spices to shine without any excess fat or flour.

Crustless Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped – Spinach is the base veggie, adding color and a boost of vitamins.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – Provides creaminess without overwhelming flavor.
• 3 large eggs – Adds structure and protein.
• 1/2 cup milk – Use whole milk for a richer texture or a lower-fat milk for fewer calories.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds depth and a slightly salty, nutty flavor.
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For that gooey, melted texture.
• 1/4 cup onion, finely diced – Adds sweetness and a savory note.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Boosts the aroma and flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.
• Olive oil for sautéing – A heart-healthy fat.
• Optional: Fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) for garnish – Adds freshness and a pop of color.

Directions:

1. Preheat Your Oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a pie dish or a baking dish lightly with olive oil.
2. Sauté the Spinach and Onion: Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, cooking until it’s softened, around 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts and is well-combined with the onion. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Quiche Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, and milk until smooth. Add the Parmesan, mozzarella, and the spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour and Bake: Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is firm and golden on top.
5. Cool and Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

This quiche serves 4-6 people and is approximately 200 kcal per serving, though this may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients.

Variations and Additions: Make It Your Own!

One of the best aspects of this quiche is its versatility. Here are some ways to adapt the recipe based on your preferences or ingredients you have on hand:

1. Cheese Options: If you’re a cheese lover, try mixing in some Gruyère, Swiss, or cheddar. Each will lend a slightly different flavor and texture.
2. Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the spinach mix. Just make sure to sauté any added vegetables to remove moisture, as this will prevent the quiche from becoming soggy.
3. Herbs and Spices: Add a dash of nutmeg, thyme, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors. Nutmeg, in particular, complements the cheese and spinach well.
4. Make It a Mini-Quiche: Divide the mixture into muffin tins to create individual servings—great for meal prep or portion control!

Tips for the Best Crustless Ricotta and Spinach Quiche

1. Grease Your Dish Well: Since there’s no crust, you’ll want to avoid sticking by thoroughly greasing the dish with olive oil or a light coating of butter.
2. Avoid Overmixing: Once you’ve combined the ingredients, pour them directly into the dish. Overmixing can make the quiche tough.
3. Bake on the Middle Rack: This will ensure even cooking and a lightly golden top.
4. Check for Doneness: A crustless quiche is done when the edges are set and the center is no longer wobbly. If necessary, give it a few more minutes, but avoid over-baking to keep it moist and creamy.
5. Let it Rest: Allowing your quiche to cool slightly after baking will make it easier to cut and serve without crumbling.

Serving Suggestions: Pairings for Your Quiche

This quiche is filling on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with other simple dishes for a well-rounded meal:

• Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the quiche. Try arugula, mixed greens, or a spinach salad.
• Soup: Pair with a light soup, such as tomato basil or a creamy cauliflower soup.
• Bread: A side of crusty bread or a whole grain roll balances out the texture and makes for a satisfying meal.

Health Benefits of Crustless Ricotta and Spinach Quiche

This recipe is packed with nutritional benefits that make it a great choice for any meal:

• High in Protein: Eggs, ricotta, and mozzarella provide high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall energy.
• Rich in Calcium: Dairy products like ricotta and mozzarella are excellent calcium sources, supporting bone health.
• Low in Carbs: By going crustless, you keep this quiche lower in carbohydrates, making it a good option for those watching their carb intake.
• Antioxidants in Spinach: Spinach is loaded with vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants that promote eye health, boost immunity, and support skin health.
• Healthy Fats from Olive Oil: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, known to support heart health by improving cholesterol levels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftover quiche in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s covered tightly to retain moisture. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a quick meal.

2. Can I freeze this quiche?

Yes! Allow the quiche to cool completely before slicing. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, let the quiche thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.

3. Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

To make this quiche vegan, you can substitute tofu for ricotta and use a non-dairy milk like almond or soy. For the eggs, use a commercial egg replacer or try blending silken tofu with nutritional yeast for a similar texture.

4. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just thaw it and drain thoroughly, squeezing out any excess moisture before adding it to the recipe.

5. Why is my quiche watery?

Watery quiches are often caused by too much moisture from vegetables. Make sure to sauté vegetables thoroughly before adding them, and avoid overmixing the filling.

Delicious Ways to Repurpose Leftovers

Quiche leftovers are incredibly versatile! Here are a few creative ways to enjoy any extra portions:

• Breakfast Sandwich: Add a slice of quiche to a toasted English muffin with some avocado or tomato for a tasty breakfast sandwich.
• Quiche Salad Topping: Crumble leftover quiche over a fresh salad to create a warm, protein-rich topping.
• Stuffed Peppers: Dice the quiche and stuff it into hollowed-out bell peppers, then bake until heated through.
• Quiche Stir-Fry: Chop it up and toss with vegetables and rice for a quick and easy stir-fry twist.

Conclusion: A Recipe Worth Repeating

This crustless ricotta and spinach quiche recipe is a classic, versatile dish that delivers on taste and nutrition. It’s a lighter option that doesn’t compromise on flavor, thanks to the combination of rich cheeses, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic and onion. Ideal for meal prep, brunch gatherings, or a weeknight dinner, this quiche makes it easy to enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal with minimal effort.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to add your favorite twists and flavors to make it your own. Once you experience the creamy, cheesy goodness, this quiche is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!