Pancetta Broccoli Cottage Cheese Frittata

Soft, savory, and loaded with golden cheese, this cottage cheese frittata with pancetta and broccoli is everything you want in a cozy, high protein keto meal. It bakes up creamy in the center with crisp edges and hearty bites of pancetta and tender veg. Just 7.5g net carbs and 32g protein per serving. Done in 25 minutes.

No crust, no flour, no fuss, just simple ingredients. This baked frittata fits right into your keto flow: healthy breakfast, brunch, or dinner. I actually eat it for dinner most nights. I skip breakfast because I do 16:8.

This Cottage Cheese Frittata Is

This creamy, easy frittata recipe is packed with flavor, baked not fried, and perfect for busy keto days.

• Perfect crustless quiche as a keto breakfast or dinner-for-one.
• High protein, low carb, totally gluten free.
• Italian frittata style, baked with pancetta, cheddar, and broccoli.
• Meal prep and reheat-friendly.
• 7.5 grams of net carbs, 32.8 grams of protein per serving.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Finely chop all your vegetables and parsley.
3. In an oven-safe skillet or pan, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until golden and crispy.
4. Add chopped broccoli, green onions, salt, pepper and olive oil or butter (if needed). Sauté for 2–3 minutes.
5. Toss in bell peppers and sauté for 2 minutes more.
6. In a bowl, whisk eggs, cottage cheese, parmesan, and parsley until smooth. It should look creamy and well mixed.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked pancetta and veggies in the skillet. It should spread evenly and cover most of the pan.
8. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes. It should look golden on top and just set in the center.
10. Let cool for a few minutes. Then slice and serve warm.

Testing Notes

I tested this frittata three times to get the right set without drying it out. The cottage cheese keeps the texture creamy, while the parmesan adds saltiness. 

The broccoli should stay slightly crisp, not mushy, so keep sauté time short. Pancetta renders out a lot of flavor. No need to add more salt unless you love big flavors.

Ingredient Swaps

• Swap pancetta for bacon, turkey bacon, or even smoked tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Use spinach or zucchini instead of broccoli. Reduce sauté time so they do not overcook.
• Sub mozzarella cheese for cheddar cheese if you prefer a milder cheese.
• Use dairy-free cheese alternatives if needed, but the texture may be softer.
• You can also swap cottage cheese with ricotta for a softer result, feta cheese for more salt and tang, Greek yogurt for a custardy texture, or cream cheese if you want it extra rich.

Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze sliced pieces with parchment in between or place in an airtight container. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
• Reheat gently to keep the center soft and fluffy.

Make It a Moment

This high-protein breakfast frittata pairs perfectly with my Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels for a full brunch plate, or serve it with Creamy Cottage Cheese Tzatziki as a low-carb dinner. Add a dollop of avocado mash or top with hot sauce for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Whether you’re skipping breakfast or prepping dinner, this keto cottage cheese frittata is simple, satisfying, and made for real life. I do 16:8 IF and skip breakfast, so this is my go-to dinner. It is fast, filling, and feels like comfort food. Whether you eat early or late, it fits your flow.

I’ve been keto since 2019 and lost 50 lbs by finding meals that are both comforting and blood sugar-friendly. And this one is on repeat at my house.

Try it and let me know: are you team breakfast or dinner?

FAQ

Can I make this frittata ahead of time?

Yes. Bake, cool, and slice. Store in the fridge and reheat for a quick meal anytime.

What can I use instead of pancetta?

You can use bacon, turkey bacon, or even smoked tofu for a vegetarian version.

Is cottage cheese good in frittatas?

Yes. Cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein, making the texture soft and fluffy without needing heavy cream.

More Recipes

More Cottage Cheese Recipes

• Cottage Cheese Brownie Mug Cake
• Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

More Keto Breakfast Recipes

• Keto Shakshuka
• Keto Omelet with Cauliflower Rice
• Keto Egg Muffins