If you are looking for a comforting yet elegant dish that brightens up any meal, this Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe is an absolute winner. With its flaky crust, tender sautéed broccoli, and that irresistible sharp cheddar melting through a creamy egg custard, this quiche feels like a warm hug served on a plate. Whether it’s brunch with friends or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and wholesome goodness without any fuss. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful classic that’s sure to become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From crisp broccoli to the sharpness of cheddar and the silky egg base, these essentials come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s colorful and comforting.
- 9-inch pie crust: Provides a buttery, flaky base that holds all the delicious filling perfectly.
- Olive oil: Adds a mild fruitiness while sautéing the vegetables to soften them gently.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Creates a savory foundation with its natural sweetness.
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped: Offers a pop of green and a pleasant tender crunch, full of nutrients.
- 4 large eggs: Acts as the binding agent turning the filling into a luscious custard.
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half: Ensures a creamy texture that keeps the quiche rich but not heavy.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg: Seasonings that enhance and deepen the flavors with a little warmth and spice.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Gives the quiche its iconic cheesy punch, balancing the vegetables beautifully.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully place your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming off any edges that hang over. Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork to give it that classic look, then prick the bottom all over with a fork to prevent bubbling. Pop it into the oven and bake it for about 8 minutes until it’s lightly set. This pre-baking step ensures a crisp crust that will hold up to the moist filling beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the crust is baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and starts to become translucent—this brings out its natural sweetness. Next, add the chopped broccoli and cook it for another 3 to 4 minutes so it softens just enough to blend perfectly with the custard. Remove from heat and let this mixture cool slightly before moving on.
Step 3: Make the Egg Custard Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together your eggs and whole milk (or half-and-half) until smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and that hint of nutmeg if you’re using it. Stir in the sautéed onion and broccoli, then fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This mixture is your flavorful, creamy filling that makes this Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour your filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly. Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is completely set and the top turns a lovely golden hue. Once done, allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes to help the filling firm up before slicing.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or even a touch of thyme right before serving can brighten the quiche and elevate its presentation. A dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of tangy crème fraîche on each slice also adds a luxurious creaminess that complements the sharp cheddar beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted cherry tomatoes. For a heartier spread, consider serving it alongside a warm bowl of soup, like tomato basil or butternut squash, to make a complete, comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the quiche in mini tart pans for individual portions perfect for brunch or parties. You can also cut it into bite-sized squares for an elegant appetizer tray. For a casual family meal, just plate generous wedges with sides and let everyone dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your quiche, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days and actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this quiche freezes beautifully. Simply wrap it securely in foil and place it in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its texture and flavor.
Reheating
For a perfectly warm slice, reheat your quiche in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the crust crisp and the filling creamy without drying out the cheese.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds a wonderful personal touch and buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the filling. Just make sure to pre-bake it as instructed to keep it from getting soggy.
Is it possible to make this quiche gluten-free?
Yes, you can opt for a gluten-free pie crust available at most stores or make one from scratch with gluten-free flour blends. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free and delicious.
What other cheeses work well instead of cheddar?
Swiss, Gruyère, or even a combination of mozzarella and parmesan are fantastic alternatives that melt well and complement the broccoli beautifully.
Can I make this Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe crustless?
Definitely! Just grease your pie dish well and pour in the filling. The texture will be a bit different, but it’s a lighter option that still delivers great flavor.
How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?
The quiche is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan. Also, the top should be a light golden brown with the cheese melted and slightly bubbly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about cutting into a warm slice of this Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe—a perfect balance of flaky crust, savory vegetables, and sharp cheese wrapped in a creamy custard. It’s a recipe that’s approachable for any cook and special enough to serve whenever you want to impress or just indulge in a comforting homemade meal. Give it a try, and I promise this quiche will soon be a beloved classic in your recipe collection!
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Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is a delicious and savory dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. Featuring a flaky pie crust filled with sautéed broccoli and onions, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy egg custard seasoned with garlic and nutmeg, it combines fresh vegetables with rich flavors for a satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and bake, this classic American quiche is both comforting and versatile.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
Custard Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, trim any excess dough around the edges, and crimp the edges decoratively. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust to prevent bubbles during baking. Pre-bake the crust for 8 minutes to set it, then remove it from the oven and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the chopped broccoli florets and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until they become slightly tender but still crisp. Remove from heat and allow the vegetables to cool slightly.
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs and 1 cup of whole milk (or half-and-half). Season the mixture with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and optionally 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg for warm, subtle spice. Stir in the sautéed onion and broccoli along with 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the egg and vegetable mixture into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly. Bake the quiche in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35 to 40 minutes or until the center is set and the top turns a light golden brown. The quiche should be firm but still slightly jiggly in the center when done.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the filling to set fully and makes serving easier. Slice into six portions and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with other flavorful cheeses such as Swiss or Gruyère for different taste profiles.
- To make a crustless version of this quiche, simply grease the pie dish well and pour the filling directly into it before baking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra variety and nutrition.
- The quiche can be stored refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
