Why Make This Recipe
Broccoli Cheese Quiche is a versatile dish perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you are looking to impress your guests at brunch or want a quick dinner option, this quiche fits the bill. With its combination of fresh veggies and rich, melted cheese, it pleases both kids and adults alike.
Moreover, it allows for creativity in the kitchen. You can substitute ingredients based on your preferences. The result is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe collection.
Equipment Needed for Broccoli Cheese Quiche
To make this delicious Broccoli Cheese Quiche, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:
- A large frying pan
- A mixing bowl
- A rolling pin
- A 9-inch pie dish
- Parchment paper
- Pie weights, dry beans, or rice for blind baking
- A fork for poking the crust
- A sharp knife for chopping
What You Need to Make Broccoli Cheese Quiche
- 1 homemade pie crust (unbaked)
- 4 slices bacon (good quality)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 head fresh broccoli (roughly chopped, about 3 cups)
- 3 green onions (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk (311g)
- 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (33g)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (57g)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (57g)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
How to Cook Broccoli Cheese Quiche Step by Step
Start by cooking the bacon in a large frying pan over medium heat. You want it to get golden and crispy on both sides. Once cooked, remove the bacon and place it on a plate covered with a paper towel to drain the excess grease. After this, chop the bacon into small pieces. Don’t forget to remove some of the leftover grease from the frying pan, as you’ll be using it for the vegetables.
Next, add the olive oil to the pan. When heated, add the chopped broccoli, green onions, and minced garlic. Cook until the broccoli becomes slightly tender, usually around 5 minutes. While you are sautéing the vegetables, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. At this point, you can prepare your pie crust.
Roll out your unbaked pie crust into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Once rolled out, place it in your 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges for a decorative touch. You’ll need to blind bake the crust to prevent it from becoming soggy later. For this process, place a piece of parchment paper inside the pie pan and fill it with either 2 cups of pie weights, dried beans, or rice. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, carefully remove the parchment paper and weights.
Prick the bottom of the pie crust all over using a fork. Return the crust to the oven and bake for an additional 8 minutes until lightly golden. While the crust is baking, prepare the quiche filling.
In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is well blended. Now, allow your pie crust to cool slightly before assembling the quiche.
To assemble, layer most of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on the bottom of the pie crust. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the cheese for later. Spread the sautéed broccoli, onions, and chopped bacon evenly over the cheese. Then pour your egg mixture over the top. Finally, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top of everything.
Bake the quiche in the oven at 350 degrees for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly golden. Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling time allows the quiche to firm up for easy serving. Leftover quiche can be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Quiche
Making this Broccoli Cheese Quiche involves a few simple steps that result in a delicious meal. After you gather all your ingredients and equipment, the cooking can begin. Start by preparing the bacon, allowing it to crisp up beautifully. Follow with the sautéing of fresh vegetables, ensuring they are just soft enough to maintain their crunch when baked.
The pie crust preparation is crucial, as it helps to hold the filling together. Ensure it is punctured before blind baking, as this helps it cook evenly. Combine the egg mixture while the crust is baking to save time. Assembling the quiche is a marvelous part of the process, as you layer your ingredients thoughtfully.
Baking at the correct temperature is key to achieving that perfect custard texture. After a little time in the oven, your kitchen will be filled with an inviting aroma that promises a delightful meal.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Quiche
Serving Broccoli Cheese Quiche is as simple as slicing into the golden, baked dish. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it an easy choice for gatherings. Cut the quiche into wedges and arrange them on a serving platter.
Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and extra freshness. You can also serve it alongside a light salad for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, pair it with roasted potatoes or a warm bowl of soup.
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheese Quiche
To complement the flavors of Broccoli Cheese Quiche, many side dishes work wonderfully. A fresh garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the quiche. Alternatively, a fruit salad adds a refreshing touch.
If you prefer heartier accompaniments, consider serving the quiche with roasted vegetables or crispy hash browns. For brunch, a side of fresh berries or pastries can elevate the overall experience.
How to Store Broccoli Cheese Quiche
If you have leftover Broccoli Cheese Quiche, it’s important to store it properly. Allow the quiche to cool completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap the slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. The quiche can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it gently in the oven.
Tips to Make Broccoli Cheese Quiche
To enhance your Broccoli Cheese Quiche, consider these handy tips. First, use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Freshly grated cheese melts nicer than pre-shredded varieties.
Make sure to balance the egg mixture well; this will ensure that the filling sets correctly. A little bit of seasoning goes a long way, so make sure to taste your mixture before pouring it into the crust.
Experiment with your ingredients. You can substitute different cheeses or add in other vegetables you enjoy, such as spinach or bell peppers.
Variation
The beauty of Broccoli Cheese Quiche lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to fit your taste. For instance, if you prefer a meatless option, omit the bacon and add more vegetables instead.
Alternatively, you might want to add some spices like red pepper flakes or fresh herbs to elevate the flavor profile. If you’re a fan of a specific cheese, such as gouda or feta, swap those in to discover new flavors.
Best Time to Make Broccoli Cheese Quiche
Broccoli Cheese Quiche is suitable for any time of the day, but it shines particularly at breakfast or brunch. It is an excellent choice for a weekend gathering or holiday brunch thanks to its deliciously rich filling and comforting nature.
However, it’s also a great make-ahead dinner option. You can prepare it the night before, bake it in the morning, and enjoy a warm quiche for a nice evening meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making quiche may seem straightforward, but a few common mistakes can occur. One major pitfall is not blind baking the crust long enough. This can lead to a soggy bottom, which is not pleasant for texture.
Another mistake is overfilling with the egg mixture. Make sure your crust and filling can hold the liquid without overflowing during baking. Lastly, using pre-shredded cheese can affect the melting quality; it’s best to grate your cheese fresh for optimal results.
Nutritional Notes
While Broccoli Cheese Quiche can be indulgent, it also packs a nutritional punch. Broccoli offers valuable vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and vitamin C. The eggs provide protein and help create a filling meal.
That said, keep an eye on portion sizes if you’re looking for a lighter option or if you’re watching calorie intake. You can make it even healthier by reducing cheese or adding more vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before sautéing.
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the quiche a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it the next morning for a delicious breakfast.
How can I make the quiche gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the regular pie crust with one made from almond flour or a gluten-free pre-made crust.
Conclusion
Broccoli Cheese Quiche is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and heartiness. Its versatility makes it perfect for various occasions and can be customized to your liking.
With simple steps, you can create a quiche that’s both satisfying and impressive. Whether for brunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process and savor each delicious bite!
Broccoli Cheese Quiche
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the bacon in a large frying pan over medium heat until golden and crispy on both sides.
- Remove the bacon and place on a plate covered with paper towel to drain excess grease. Chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Remove some of the leftover grease from the frying pan. Add olive oil and heat.
- Add chopped broccoli, green onions, and minced garlic. Cook until broccoli is slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the unbaked pie crust into a circle about 12 inches in diameter and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
- Blind bake the crust by placing parchment paper inside the pie crust and filling it with pie weights, dried beans, or rice. Bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove parchment paper and weights carefully. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork and return to the oven for an additional 8 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a mixing bowl, combine eggs, milk, parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Allow the pie crust to cool slightly. Layer most of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella on the bottom of the pie crust, reserving about 1/4 cup for later.
- Spread sautéed broccoli, onions, and chopped bacon evenly over the cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the top and sprinkle the reserved cheese on top.
- Bake the quiche in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
