Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche

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Introduction

Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is a delicious and versatile dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. The combination of a flaky, buttery crust, tender broccoli florets, and sharp cheddar cheese baked into a rich, creamy egg custard is nothing short of comforting. This quiche brings together the flavors and textures you crave, offering a delightful balance of savory and satisfying with every bite.

I remember making this for a weekend brunch with friends, and it was an instant hit. The creamy filling and the slight crunch of the broccoli make it a refreshing yet indulgent treat. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a wonderful depth of flavor, and the whole dish comes together effortlessly.

What I love most about this quiche is how adaptable it is. You can swap in different vegetables, add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor, or even experiment with different cheeses. Plus, it’s great warm or cold, so it works for whatever timing you have. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a quick family meal, or simply craving a tasty snack, this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is always the perfect choice.

Perfect for:

  • Weekend brunches
  • Meal prepping
  • Potlucks or gatherings
  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Vegetarians

Why You’ll Love This Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche

Here’s why Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche will become a household favorite:

  • Simple and Quick to Prepare: Using store-bought pie crust cuts down on prep time, making this recipe hassle-free.
  • Rich and Creamy Texture: The egg custard is perfectly creamy and pairs beautifully with the sharpness of the cheddar.
  • Healthy Ingredients: Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and a touch of freshness to the dish.
  • Customizable Flavors: This quiche can be easily adapted to include other vegetables, cheeses, or proteins to suit your taste.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: It reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8 slices
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche:

  • 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
  • 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Broccoli: Provides a pop of freshness and nutrition, pairing perfectly with the creamy custard and cheese.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold, savory flavor and melty goodness to every bite.
  • Eggs: The base of the quiche, eggs create the custard that binds the ingredients together.
  • Milk or Half-and-Half: Adds richness and creaminess to the custard.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche:

Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Pie Crust: Roll out the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Press it gently into the dish and crimp the edges. Use a fork to poke a few holes in the bottom to prevent puffing.
  3. Pre-Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Broccoli:

  1. Steam or Microwave Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or microwave until tender-crisp. If using frozen broccoli, thaw completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture.

Prepare the Custard Mixture:

  1. Whisk the Eggs and Milk: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or half-and-half), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Quiche:

  1. Layer the Ingredients: Spread the broccoli evenly across the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the broccoli.
  2. Pour the Custard: Pour the egg mixture over the broccoli and cheese, ensuring everything is evenly covered.

Bake the Quiche:

  1. Bake: Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
  2. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the quiche cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche

Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is versatile and can be served in various ways:

  • Warm with a Side Salad: Serve a slice of quiche with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
  • With Breakfast Sides: Pair it with fruit, hash browns, or toast for a complete breakfast or brunch.
  • As a Light Dinner: Enjoy with a bowl of soup or roasted vegetables for a cozy dinner.
  • For On-the-Go Meals: Wrap individual slices for a portable lunch or snack.

Additional Tips for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche

Here are some tips to make your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche perfect every time:

  • Avoid Soggy Crust: Pre-baking the crust ensures it stays crisp and doesn’t get soggy from the custard.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli adds the best texture and flavor, but frozen works well in a pinch.
  • Customize the Filling: Add cooked bacon, ham, mushrooms, or spinach for variety.
  • Let It Cool Before Slicing: Allow the quiche to cool slightly after baking to make slicing easier.
  • Check for Doneness: Ensure the custard is fully set before removing from the oven to avoid a runny quiche.
  • Store Leftovers Properly: Store leftover quiche in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Recipe Variations for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche

Here are 10 variations you can try for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche:

  • Broccoli and Ham Quiche: Add cooked diced ham for a protein boost.
  • Spinach and Cheddar Quiche: Substitute broccoli with fresh or frozen spinach.
  • Mushroom and Broccoli Quiche: Sauté mushrooms and mix them with the broccoli for added earthiness.
  • Crustless Quiche: Skip the crust for a lower-carb version. Simply grease the pie dish before adding the filling.
  • Swiss and Broccoli Quiche: Replace cheddar with Swiss cheese for a milder flavor.
  • Cheddar and Bacon Quiche: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the broccoli for a smoky flavor.
  • Vegetarian Loaded Quiche: Add bell peppers, zucchini, and onions along with the broccoli for a veggie-packed option.
  • Feta and Broccoli Quiche: Use crumbled feta cheese for a tangy twist.
  • Gluten-Free Quiche: Use a gluten-free pie crust or go crustless.
  • Mini Quiches: Bake the filling in a muffin tin for individual-sized portions, perfect for parties or meal prep.

Freezing and Storage for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche

  • Freezing: Let the baked quiche cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.

Special Equipment for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche

Here are some items that make preparing your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche easier:

  • 9-Inch Pie Dish: A standard pie dish is perfect for this recipe.
  • Mixing Bowl: For whisking the custard and mixing ingredients.
  • Whisk: Ensures the egg mixture is smooth and well-blended.
  • Baking Sheet: Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any spills.
  • Steamer or Microwave: For preparing the broccoli.
  • Knife: To test for doneness and slice the quiche.
  • Oven Thermometer: Ensures accurate oven temperature for consistent results.

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
    Yes, thaw the broccoli completely and pat it dry before adding it to the quiche to prevent excess moisture.
  2. Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
    Absolutely! You can prepare the quiche a day in advance and reheat it before serving.
  3. Can I use a different cheese?
    Yes, cheeses like Swiss, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack work well as substitutes.
  4. How can I make this quiche dairy-free?
    Use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk and a dairy-free cheese substitute.
  5. How do I know the quiche is done?
    The quiche is done when the center is set, and a knife inserted comes out clean.

Conclusion

Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and wholesome vegetables, all nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. This dish is a go-to for any meal, whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a quick dinner, or needing a make-ahead option for busy days. The tender broccoli and rich cheddar cheese create the ultimate comfort food that everyone can enjoy.

This recipe is not only simple to make but also highly adaptable—feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, meats, or seasonings for a personalized twist. Whether you serve it hot from the oven or enjoy it cold, this quiche is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

I’d love to see how your Easy Broccoli Cheddar Quiche turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!