If you’ve been hunting for a delightful dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, this Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine a perfectly flaky crust cradling a rich, creamy custard filled with vibrant green broccoli and sharp, melted cheddar cheese—every bite is like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s for a cozy brunch or a light dinner, this quiche brings together simple ingredients to create a crowd-pleaser that feels special yet easy enough to whip up any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making a mouthwatering Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe. Each component, from the crust to the seasonings, plays an essential role in balancing flavor, texture, and color, ensuring your quiche turns out just perfect.
- Prepared spelt pie crust or The Best Butter Pie Crust: Provides a flaky, buttery base that holds everything together beautifully.
- 12 ounces broccoli (3-4 cups), cut into small florets: Adds a fresh, slightly crunchy texture and a vibrant green pop—fresh or frozen both work fine.
- 8 large eggs: The heart of the custard filling, creating that silky, rich texture we all crave in quiche.
- ½ cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture without overpowering the custard’s lightness.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Boosts richness, making the filling decadently smooth.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle zing and depth of flavor that highlights the cheddar’s sharpness.
- 1 ½ teaspoons coarse kosher salt: Essential for seasoning; balances all the flavors perfectly (see notes for alternatives).
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky warmth that complements the cheddar and broccoli.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: For a touch of spice to round out the dish.
- 4 ounces (about 1 cup) shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into a savory, gooey layer that’s absolutely irresistible.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by lining your pie dish with the prepared spelt or butter pie crust. Press it gently into the pan, making sure to trim any excess dough around the edges. Prick the bottom lightly with a fork to prevent bubbling as it bakes.
Step 2: Pre-Cook the Broccoli
If using fresh broccoli, blanch the florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp, then drain and cool. For frozen, simply thaw and drain excess water to avoid sogginess. This step ensures the broccoli stays vibrant and tender without steaming inside the quiche.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard until fully combined. Stir in the coarse kosher salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper for a well-rounded seasoning base.
Step 4: Assemble the Quiche
Sprinkle half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the pie crust. Layer the cooked broccoli evenly on top, then cover with the remaining cheese. Pour the custard mixture over everything, pressing lightly to settle the filling evenly.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the quiche for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. The top should be golden and the edges of the crust lightly browned. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley brightens the presentation and adds a fresh herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the quiche. A light dusting of smoked paprika on top can also enhance its smoky depth.
Side Dishes
This quiche shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp mixed greens dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or a simple tomato salad to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, roasted potatoes or a fragrant rice pilaf round it out perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spinning the Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe into mini servings by using muffin tins for individual quiches—perfect for brunch parties or easy grab-and-go snacks. You can also add extra mix-ins like sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to elevate the flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover quiche stores well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it wrapped tightly or in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent it from absorbing other fridge smells.
Freezing
This quiche freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust crisps back up. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust flaky, but it’s fine for quick reheating when time is short.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this quiche?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture so your quiche doesn’t become watery.
What if I don’t have spelt pie crust?
No worries at all! You can substitute with your favorite homemade or store-bought butter pie crust for equally delicious results.
Can this quiche be made dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the milk and cream with your preferred plant-based alternatives and try a dairy-free cheese substitute, although the classic cheddar flavor is definitely a highlight of this recipe.
Is it better to prebake the crust?
This recipe works well without prebaking if you use a sturdy crust, but for extra crispness, blind baking for 10 minutes helps prevent sogginess from the filling.
How do I know when the quiche is done?
It’s ready when the center is set but still slightly wobbly to the touch and the top turns a light golden brown. It will firm up more as it cools.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any eating occasion. With its harmonious blend of creamy custard, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar, it’s sure to become one of your go-to dishes for brunches, family dinners, or even a simple lunch. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with those you love—happy cooking!
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Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Quiche
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is a savory and satisfying dish that combines tender broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy custard filling baked to perfection inside a flaky pie crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this quiche offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures with a hint of smoky paprika and tangy Dijon mustard.
Ingredients
Pie 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
- Preheat and Prepare Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared spelt or butter pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it firmly to the edges. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to help prevent shrinking during baking.
- Blind Bake Crust: Line the crust with parchment paper or foil and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, remove the weights and lining, then bake for another 5-7 minutes until the crust is lightly golden and partially cooked. This step ensures a crisp crust that won’t become soggy.
- Prepare Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets until just tender, about 3-4 minutes, then drain well. If using frozen, thaw completely and drain off excess moisture to avoid sogginess.
- Mix Custard Filling: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper until smooth and fully combined. The Dijon adds a subtle tang, while the paprika lends a mild smoky flavor.
- Assemble Quiche: Spread the cooked broccoli evenly over the bottom of the partially baked crust. Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the broccoli. Pour the egg mixture carefully over the filling, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Bake the Quiche: Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time lets the custard finish setting for clean slices. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli; if frozen, make sure to fully thaw and drain, to prevent excess moisture in the quiche.
- For a lower-sodium version, reduce or omit the kosher salt and season with herbs like thyme or chives.
- Spelt pie crust offers a nutty flavor and is an alternative to traditional butter crust.
- Make ahead tip: Assemble the quiche a day ahead and store it refrigerated, then bake just before serving.
