Crustless Broccoli and Onion Pie
Crustless broccoli and onion pie is a savory, comforting dish packed with tender broccoli, sweet sautéed onions, creamy cottage cheese, and melted cheddar. With no traditional crust, this recipe is lighter than classic quiche or pie while still offering rich flavor and satisfying texture. The eggs and cheese create a soft, fluffy center, while the broccoli adds freshness and color in every bite.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, this easy one-pan recipe is both nutritious and versatile. It can be served warm straight from the oven or chilled for meal prep throughout the week.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 to 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
1 medium onion, diced
5 large eggs
Cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dairy / Base
1 cup cottage cheese or Greek yogurt
Binder
1/4 cup almond flour or all-purpose flour
Seasonings and Pantry Staples
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a pie dish or baking dish lightly with olive oil or cooking spray.
Cook the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
Add chopped broccoli and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until slightly tender. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, almond flour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese.
Combine Everything
Fold the cooked broccoli and onions into the egg mixture until evenly distributed.
Bake the Pie
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the center is set and the top becomes golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
Chop Broccoli Small
Smaller broccoli pieces cook more evenly and make slicing easier.
Cook Onions First
Sautéing onions enhances sweetness and prevents raw flavor.
Drain Excess Moisture
Avoid watery pie by not overcooking vegetables.
Use Room Temperature Eggs
Room temperature eggs blend more smoothly into the mixture.
Do Not Overmix
Gentle mixing helps maintain a soft and fluffy texture.
Use Sharp Cheddar
Sharp cheddar adds stronger flavor without needing extra seasoning.
Rest Before Slicing
Cooling slightly helps the pie firm up for cleaner slices.
Grease the Dish Well
This prevents sticking and helps with serving.
Add Fresh Herbs
Fresh parsley or chives brighten the flavor beautifully.
Store Properly
Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container.
Variations
Spinach and Broccoli Version
Add chopped spinach for extra greens and nutrition.
Mushroom Onion Pie
Mix sautéed mushrooms into the filling for earthy flavor.
Spicy Version
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
Mediterranean Style
Use feta cheese and oregano instead of cheddar.
Protein Boost Version
Add cooked turkey bacon or shredded chicken.
Low Dairy Version
Use reduced-fat cheese and Greek yogurt.
Herb Lover’s Version
Add fresh dill, thyme, or basil for stronger herb flavor.
Cauliflower Broccoli Pie
Replace some broccoli with cauliflower florets.
Mini Muffin Version
Bake the mixture in muffin tins for portable portions.
Extra Cheesy Version
Add mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra meltiness.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats very well and is great for meal prep.
Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Why is my pie watery?
The vegetables may have released too much moisture during baking.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw and drain it well first.
Can I replace cottage cheese?
Yes, Greek yogurt or ricotta work well.
Is almond flour necessary?
No, all-purpose flour works too, or you can omit it for a softer texture.
How do I know it is done baking?
The center should be firm and no longer jiggly.
Can I add meat?
Yes, cooked bacon, turkey, or sausage are good additions.
What can I serve with it?
It pairs well with salad, soup, or roasted vegetables.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Nutrition
Calories: 290
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 520mg
Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredients used.
Conclusion
Crustless broccoli and onion pie is a delicious and wholesome dish filled with savory vegetables, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs. It offers the comfort of a traditional savory pie without the heaviness of a crust, making it lighter yet still satisfying. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays, meal prep, or cozy family meals.