Treat yourself to a savory and delicious Broccoli Cheddar Quiche, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. This quiche combines tender broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich, creamy filling in a buttery pie crust. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 9-inch premade refrigerated pie dough
- 5 eggs
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and well-drained
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- Roll out the premade pie dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. Poke the bottom and sides with a fork to prevent bubbles.
- Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes to prevent it from getting soggy when the filling is added. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, and mayonnaise until well combined and smooth.
- Add the minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to incorporate all the spices.
- Assemble the Quiche:
- Spread the steamed and well-drained broccoli florets evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.
- Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top of the broccoli.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the broccoli and green onions.
- Add the Egg Mixture:
- Carefully pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and cheese in the pie crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if necessary.
- Bake the Quiche:
- Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cook’s Notes:
- Blind Baking: Blind baking the crust helps ensure it stays crispy and doesn’t get soggy from the filling. You can use pie weights or dried beans to keep the crust flat while blind baking.
- Steaming Broccoli: Make sure the broccoli is well-drained after steaming to prevent excess moisture in the quiche.
- Customizing: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and variety.
Variations:
- Crustless Quiche: For a lower-carb option, omit the pie crust and pour the filling into a greased pie dish. Bake as directed.
- Cheese Swap: Substitute the cheddar cheese with Swiss, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Delight: Add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes for a vegetarian version of this quiche.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I make this quiche ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the quiche a day in advance. Once baked, let it cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
2. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
3. Can I freeze quiche? Yes, you can freeze quiche. Bake the quiche and let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? Yes, you can substitute milk or half-and-half for heavy cream, but the quiche may be slightly less rich and creamy.
5. What can I serve with quiche? Quiche pairs well with a fresh green salad, fruit salad, or roasted vegetables. It’s also delicious with a side of crusty bread or a light soup.
This Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With its creamy filling, savory cheese, and tender broccoli, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this quiche is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures of this homemade classic!
