There’s something irresistibly comforting about a slice of Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche. Imagine a golden, flaky crust cradling a creamy filling, bursting with vibrant green broccoli and the sharp, nutty flavor of cheddar cheese. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug, inviting you to take just one more bite.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was for a brunch with friends who claimed they were on a “health kick.” Little did they know that this quiche is both delicious and surprisingly nutritious! Perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or even fancy dinner parties, this dish is sure to impress while making your taste buds dance with joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for novice cooks.
- The rich flavors offer a delightful blend of creamy and savory goodness in every bite.
- Its beautiful presentation makes it a showstopper at any gathering.
- Versatile enough to serve hot or cold, it fits any occasion seamlessly.
I once had my friends devour this quiche in mere minutes at brunch; their faces lit up like kids in a candy store!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pie Crust: Use store-bought or homemade; both work well, but make sure it’s chilled before baking.
Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for optimal flavor and color; chop them into small pieces.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds depth; grate it fresh for maximum meltiness.
Eggs: Large eggs are best; they bind everything together while providing richness.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess and luxuriousness to the filling; don’t skimp on it!
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
For the seasoning:
Dried Thyme: A little goes a long way in enhancing the quiche’s flavor profile.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch brings out the warmth in the dish, balancing the flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using store-bought pie crust, roll it out into your pie dish and prick the bottom with a fork for even baking.
Sauté the Broccoli: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped broccoli until tender but still bright green—about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances its flavor.
Whisk Together Your Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg until combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.
Add Cheese and Broccoli to Filling: Fold in grated cheddar cheese and sautéed broccoli into the egg mixture gently. Ensure everything is evenly distributed without overmixing.
Pour Filling into Crust : Carefully pour the broccoli-cheese mixture into your prepared pie crust. Spread it evenly so every slice will have equal cheesy goodness.
Bake Until Golden Brown : Place your quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set in the center. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted.
Enjoy slicing into this delightful Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche! The crispy crust paired with creamy filling will make every bite worth savoring—perfect for any meal of the day!
You Must Know
- To make an incredible Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche, always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- The combination of rich cheddar and vibrant broccoli creates a comforting balance.
- Don’t forget to season generously; it truly makes a difference in elevating the dish.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by pre-baking your pie crust until golden brown. Meanwhile, sauté your broccoli and onion to develop flavor before mixing into the egg mixture. This ensures every bite is bursting with taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for spinach or add mushrooms for extra depth. Experimenting with different cheeses like feta or gouda can take your quiche to new heights of deliciousness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, maintaining that delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect quiche, whisk eggs thoroughly to ensure even texture throughout.
- Consider using a mix of half-and-half and milk for creaminess without being too heavy.
- Lastly, let the quiche cool slightly before slicing; this helps it hold its shape beautifully.
The first time I made Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche, my family devoured it within minutes! Their compliments filled my kitchen with joy, reminding me why I love cooking so much.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding it to the quiche mix.
How do I know when my quiche is done baking?
The center should be set and slightly jiggly; it will firm up as it cools.
What can I serve with Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche?
A light salad or fresh fruit pairs wonderfully for a balanced meal experience.
Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche is a delightfully creamy dish enveloped in a flaky crust that’s perfect for brunch or dinner. This versatile quiche combines fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a savory flavor profile that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Easy to prepare, this recipe can be served hot or cold, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- A pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare the pie crust in a pie dish, pricking the bottom with a fork.
- Sauté chopped broccoli in olive oil over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Gently fold in the sautéed broccoli and grated cheddar cheese to the egg mixture.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown on top and set in the center.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: For added flavor, pre-bake the pie crust until lightly golden before adding the filling. Experiment with different vegetables or cheeses like spinach or feta for unique variations.
