If you have been searching for a delightful brunch centerpiece or a cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe is about to become your new favorite. With a flaky, buttery crust embracing a rich, cheesy filling packed with vibrant broccoli florets, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Every bite bursts with sharp cheddar’s tang and the subtle earthiness of fresh broccoli, making this quiche not only irresistibly tasty but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to brighten your table and mood alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, from the flaky spelt pie crust that forms a tender base, to the sharp cheddar cheese that enlivens the filling’s flavor profile. The eggs and cream create a luscious, custardy texture, while the Dijon mustard and spices add depth and a subtle kick. Here’s what you’ll gather to bring this delicious dream to life:
- Prepared spelt pie crust or The Best Butter Pie Crust: Provides a perfectly flaky and buttery foundation that makes every bite extra special.
- 12 ounces broccoli (3-4 cups), cut into small florets: Fresh or frozen works fine—broccoli adds color, nutrition, and a satisfying crunch.
- 8 large eggs: The essential binder that creates the creamy custard filling.
- ½ cup whole milk: Adds moisture and mildness, balancing richness without heaviness.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Contributes richness and smoothness to achieve that classic quiche texture.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: A subtle flavor booster that brings gentle tang and complexity.
- 1 ½ teaspoons coarse kosher salt: Enhances flavor; you can adjust or substitute depending on your dietary preferences.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a faint smoky warmth that complements the cheddar beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Brings a subtle heat and depth to the filling.
- 4 ounces (about 1 cup) shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that melts into gooey, flavorful pockets throughout the quiche.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust and Broccoli
Start by preheating your oven according to your pie crust instructions. If you’re using frozen broccoli, gently steam it until just tender and drain well to avoid soggy custard later. Fresh broccoli should be blanched briefly in boiling water and immediately cooled in ice water to maintain its bright green color and crunch. Line your pie dish with the prepared crust, pressing gently into the edges.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with whole milk, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard until smooth and creamy. Then, season with coarse kosher salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. This custard mixture is the heart of your Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe, so ensuring it’s well combined will give you that luscious texture everyone loves.
Step 3: Assemble the Filling
Scatter the prepared broccoli evenly over the pie crust’s bottom. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top of the broccoli to create layers of flavor. Finally, gently pour the custard mixture over it all, making sure it seeps between the broccoli and cheese for even distribution.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake your quiche in a preheated oven for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top turns a glorious golden brown. To avoid over-browning, you can cover the edges with foil if needed during the last 15 minutes. Once done, allow the quiche to cool slightly before slicing—this helps the filling firm up for clean slices.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, consider sprinkling fresh chopped chives or parsley on top just before serving. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a dollop of sour cream can also add a luscious finish that brightens the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This quiche pairs wonderfully with simple but vibrant sides like a mixed green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, roasted cherry tomatoes, or even a crisp fruit salad. The freshness balances the rich, cheesy filling perfectly, making every meal feel thoughtfully complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, serve the Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe in pie slices arranged on a wooden board alongside an assortment of fresh breads and spreads. You can also cut it into mini portions using a muffin tin for an elegant appetizer or party snack that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover quiche tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it a convenient and delicious make-ahead option for busy days.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the quiche completely, then wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your quiche is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This method preserves the crust’s crispness and the filling’s creamy texture far better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture thoroughly before adding it to your quiche. This prevents the filling from becoming watery and helps maintain a nice texture.
What can I substitute for sharp cheddar cheese?
If sharp cheddar isn’t your favorite, try a combination of Gruyere and mozzarella for a creamy, melty twist that still provides great flavor depth and texture.
Do I need to blind bake the crust?
For this recipe, blind baking isn’t necessary, especially if you’re using a high-quality prepared crust. The baking time allows the crust to cook through while the filling sets perfectly.
Can I make this Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat products. Just ensure your pie crust and cheese are vegetarian-friendly if that’s important to you.
How long does the quiche stay fresh once baked?
Once baked, your quiche will stay fresh for up to four days when stored properly in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for leftovers or meal prepping in advance.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comforting joy of a homemade Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe to bring people together around the table. Its perfect blend of flaky crust, vibrant veggies, and cheesy custard promises to satisfy every craving and mood. I encourage you to dive in and try it soon—you might just discover your new go-to dish for any occasion or simply a heartfelt treat for yourself. Happy baking!
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Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is a delicious and comforting dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Featuring a flaky spelt or butter pie crust filled with tender broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy, flavorful custard mixture seasoned with Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and kosher salt, this quiche offers a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. The recipe yields 8 generous servings and requires about 1 hour and 35 minutes from start to finish, including prep and baking time.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 prepared spelt pie crust or The Best Butter Pie Crust
Filling
- 12 ounces broccoli (3–4 cups), cut into small florets (fresh or frozen)
- 8 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 ½ teaspoons coarse kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces (about 1 cup) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared spelt or butter pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently to fit and crimping the edges as desired. Blind bake the crust by lining it with parchment paper and filling it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the crust is not fully cooked. Remove the weights and parchment paper and set the crust aside.
- Prepare the broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the 12 ounces of broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still bright green. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain excess moisture. Pat dry to avoid soggy filling.
- Mix the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, ½ cup whole milk, ½ cup heavy cream, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard until smooth. Season the mixture with 1 ½ teaspoons coarse kosher salt, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Whisk again to combine all seasonings evenly.
- Assemble the quiche: Spread the drained broccoli evenly over the baked pie crust. Sprinkle 4 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the broccoli. Carefully pour the egg and cream custard mixture over the broccoli and cheese, filling the crust without overflowing.
- Bake the quiche: Place the assembled quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the custard is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. Insert a knife near the center; if it comes out clean, the quiche is done. If not, continue baking and check every 5 minutes.
- Cool and serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes to let the custard set fully. Slice into 8 pieces and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli; if frozen, thaw thoroughly and drain to prevent excess moisture in the quiche.
- If you don’t have coarse kosher salt, substitute with 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, adjusting to taste.
- The Dijon mustard adds depth and tanginess; do not omit for best flavor.
- This quiche can be prepared a day ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pie crust instead of spelt or butter crust.
