Introduction to Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
When it comes to comfort food, broccoli and cheddar quiche hits all the right notes. It’s savory, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for brunch or a quick dinner option. Imagine sitting down to a warm, golden crust filled with tender broccoli and gooey cheddar, all enveloped in a velvety egg custard. Does it get any better?
Why Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche is the Ultimate Comfort Food
What makes this dish so special is its versatility. You can enjoy it hot or at room temperature, making it perfect for gatherings or family meals. Fill it with fresh vegetables, like broccoli, and you’re getting a healthy twist on a classic. Plus, the addition of turkey bacon brings a delightful crunch and richness that elevates the entire experience.
According to the American Heart Association, including vegetables in your diet is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Why not indulge in something delicious while also nourishing your body? Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, making this quiche is a fun way to experiment in the kitchen. Check out our full recipe for an easy step-by-step guide. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients for Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
Essential ingredients for the perfect quiche
Creating a delicious broccoli and cheddar quiche starts with a few essential ingredients that come together to make this dish rich and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 homemade pie crust (unbaked): A flaky crust is crucial. You can make your own or grab a pre-made one for convenience.
- Turkey bacon: Four slices add a smoky flavor while keeping it a bit lighter.
- 3 cups of fresh broccoli: Roughly chopped, this is the star of our quiche, adding color and nutrition.
- 5 large eggs: The binding agent that gives the quiche its creamy texture.
- Cheeses: A mix of ½ cup shredded cheddar and ½ cup mozzarella delivers a rich flavor, with ⅓ cup of freshly grated parmesan for a savory kick.
- Green onions, garlic, milk, salt, and pepper: These seasonings round out this delightful dish beautifully.
Optional add-ins for bonus flavor
While the basics are wonderful, consider these optional additions to elevate your broccoli and cheddar quiche to the next level:
- Chicken ham: For a twist of flavor, adding diced chicken ham can be a delightful alternative to turkey bacon.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes bring a sweet tang that pairs brilliantly with the cheese.
- Various herbs: Sprinkle in some thyme or chives for a refreshing herbal kick.
Feel free to experiment! This quiche is versatile and welcomes all sorts of flavor highlights. Why not make it your own?
Preparing Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
Creating a delicious broccoli and cheddar quiche is not just a culinary task; it's an experience filled with delightful aromas and the promise of a satisfying meal. Follow these steps to ensure your quiche turns out perfectly every time.
Gather Your Tools and Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather everything you need. Here’s what you’ll require:
- Tools:
- Pie pan
- Frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Ingredients:
- 1 homemade pie crust (unbaked)
- 4 slices of turkey bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 head of fresh broccoli, roughly chopped (about 3 cups)
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 5 large eggs
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
With your tools and ingredients ready, you're set to create something delightful.
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial, as a well-preheated oven will help cook the quiche evenly. For the pie crust, roll out your homemade dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Place it in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges to make it visually appealing.
Next, blind bake your pie crust: line it with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights (or dry beans). Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and poke the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up. Return it to the oven for an additional 8 minutes. This pre-baking ensures a perfectly cooked and crispy base.
Cook the Turkey Bacon and Sauté the Vegetables
In a frying pan, cook the turkey bacon over medium heat until it's crispy and golden brown on both sides. Once cooked, let it drain on a paper towel and then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Using the same pan, add olive oil and sauté the chopped broccoli, green onions, and minced garlic until the broccoli is tender but still bright green—this enhances both flavor and presentation.
Mix the Filling Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, grated parmesan, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will create a rich custard that will bind all the delicious ingredients together.
Assemble and Bake the Quiche
Now comes the fun part! Layer most of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese in the bottom of your pie crust, reserving some cheese for the top. Spread the sautéed vegetables and chopped turkey bacon evenly over this layer. Pour the egg mixture over everything, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden. Once out of the oven, let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling period helps the quiche set up for cleaner slices. Serve at room temperature or warm, and enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
For a special touch, consider pairing your broccoli and cheddar quiche with a light salad or some fresh fruit. Enjoy!
Variations on Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
Exploring variations on broccoli and cheddar quiche can really expand your brunch game! Here are two delicious alternatives that bring their own unique twists to the table.
Spinach and Feta Quiche
Swap out broccoli for sautéed spinach, and add creamy feta cheese to create a Mediterranean delight. This combo pairs beautifully with a touch of nutmeg for an aromatic flavor boost. Serve it warm with a side of sliced tomatoes on a summer day to brighten your meal!
Sun-Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Quiche
For a more savory option, consider using sun-dried tomatoes and tangy goat cheese. This variation adds depth and a hint of sweetness. Best served alongside a simple green salad dressed in light vinaigrette, it makes for a satisfying meal any time of the year.
These small tweaks can make your quiche versatile and exciting, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in! Looking for more quiche ideas? Check out this source for inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
Tips for a Flaky Pie Crust
For a perfectly flaky pie crust, keep your butter cold! Use chilled butter and ice water when making your dough. This creates steam during baking, resulting in that tender, flaky texture we all love. If possible, let the dough rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out; this relaxes the gluten and helps prevent shrinkage.
Tricks for Even Baking
To achieve even baking for your broccoli and cheddar quiche, consider using a pizza stone or baking sheet under your pie pan. This can help distribute heat evenly. Additionally, rotate your quiche halfway through baking to ensure all edges cook uniformly. Avoid opening the oven door too frequently; it can cause temperature fluctuations that may affect your quiche’s texture.
For more tips, check out Serious Eats for expert baking advice!
Serving Suggestions for Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
Pairing with Fresh Salads
Elevate your broccoli and cheddar quiche experience by serving it alongside a vibrant salad. A mixed greens salad drizzled with a light lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the quiche beautifully. Try adding seasonal ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado for a refreshing crunch. For a heartier option, consider a quinoa or farro salad loaded with veggies and herbs—perfect for adding some texture and completing your meal. You can find more salad ideas for inspiration here.
Serving for Brunch Gatherings
Hosting a brunch? Your broccoli and cheddar quiche will surely impress guests! Slice the quiche into wedges and serve it warm or at room temperature for a casual vibe. Complement it with some fresh fruit platters or pastries to create a delightful spread. Offering a selection of beverages—like freshly squeezed orange juice or herbal teas—will enhance the overall ambiance. Remember, the goal is to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere where everyone can enjoy each other's company. For tips on brunch planning, check out this guide.
Time Breakdown for Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
Preparation time
Getting your broccoli and cheddar quiche ready to cook takes about 20 minutes. This includes prepping your ingredients, chopping the broccoli, and mixing the filling. It’s a great time to enjoy a podcast or your favorite playlist while you work.
Cooking time
Once you’ve prepped everything, the actual cooking will take around 1 hour and 10 minutes. This includes blind baking the crust and letting your quiche bake to perfection.
Total time
In total, you’ll want to set aside about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish. With minimal hands-on time and a delightful baking aroma wafting through your kitchen, your savory brunch will be well worth the wait!
For more tips on perfecting your quiche, consider checking out cooking resources like Bon Appétit or Serious Eats. These platforms provide excellent insights into making dishes just like this one, taking your cooking skills to the next level!
Nutritional Facts for Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
When it comes to enjoying a slice of broccoli and cheddar quiche, you might be surprised by its nutritional profile! This savory dish is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients to give you that satisfying brunch experience without the guilt.
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 276 calories, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
Protein
With about 13 grams of protein, this quiche supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer.
Carbohydrates
Offering around 19 grams of carbohydrates, this dish provides just the right amount of energy without overloading on carbs, thanks to the fresh broccoli and cheddar cheese.
For more detailed nutritional insights and a breakdown of the health benefits of each ingredient, check out reputable sources like Nutrition Data or the USDA FoodData Central.
FAQ about Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make your broccoli and cheddar quiche up to one day in advance. Simply bake it, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. It’s delicious served at room temperature or you can warm it slightly in the oven before serving. This is a great way to save time during brunch prep!
What is the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your quiche fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just wrap it in a double layer of aluminum foil and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
Can I use different cheeses in the quiche?
Definitely! While cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gruyère, feta, or even goat cheese can add unique flavors to your broccoli and cheddar quiche. Don’t hesitate to mix and match; your taste buds will appreciate the creativity! For more cheese inspiration, check out this cheese guide.
Conclusion on Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
In summary, this broccoli and cheddar quiche not only delights your taste buds but also offers a nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. Whether serving it for brunch or enjoying it as a light dinner, this versatile dish is bound to impress. Enjoy every slice with family and friends!
Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
Equipment
- Pie Pan
Ingredients
- 1 whole 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
- 1.25 cups milk (311g)
- ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (33g)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (57g)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (57g)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a large frying pan over medium heat until golden and crispy on both sides. Remove to a plate lined with a paper towel, then chop. Remove some of the grease from the frying pan.
- Add olive oil to the pan. Add chopped broccoli, onions, and garlic and cook until broccoli is slightly tender.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Roll out one disc of pie dough into a circle, 12 inches in diameter. Place in 9 inch pie dish and crimp edges.
- Place a piece of parchment paper inside the pie pan and add 2 cups of pie weights, dry beans or rice. Bake at 375 degrees F for 15 minutes. Remove parchment paper and pie weights. Prick pie crust all over with a fork, then return to the oven for 8 more minutes.
- In a mixing bowl combine eggs, milk, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Layer most of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese into the bottom of the pie crust. Reserve about ¼ cup of cheese for sprinkling on top of the quiche. Sprinkle broccoli, onion and bacon over the cheese and spread into an even layer. Pour the egg mixture on top. Top with remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheese.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 40-50 minutes, or until set on top. Remove from oven and allow to cool for at least 10 minutes, or to room temperature, before slicing. Store leftovers, covered, in the fridge.
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