Crustless Spinach Quiche Recipe
If you are craving a rich, savory breakfast or brunch option that feels indulgent yet keeps things light, this Crustless Spinach Quiche Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender sautéed spinach, sharp cheddar, and creamy eggs, it offers a luscious texture and vibrant flavor without the extra carbs from a crust. Every slice melts in your mouth with a perfect balance of cheesy goodness and wholesome greens, making it a reliable go-to dish that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on this Crustless Spinach Quiche Recipe requires just a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor and achieving that silky, custardy texture. From the freshness of the spinach to the sharp tang of Parmesan, every element complements the others beautifully.
- Olive oil: Provides a subtle fruity base for sautéing the onions and garlic, enhancing their sweetness.
- Yellow onion: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth of flavor once softened.
- Garlic: Offers a punch of aromatic warmth that lifts the entire dish.
- Fresh spinach: Brings vibrant color and a mild earthiness, packed with nutrition.
- Eggs: The backbone of the quiche, creating a rich and fluffy custard.
- Milk: Lightens the texture while keeping it creamy and smooth.
- Heavy cream: Adds luscious richness that balances the spinach’s brightness.
- Cheddar cheese: Contributes a sharp, melty cheesiness that makes every bite irresistible.
- Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it deepens the cheesy flavor complexity.
- Salt, black pepper, and nutmeg: These seasonings round out the flavor, with nutmeg adding a warm, subtle spice.
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter: Ensures the quiche doesn’t stick to the pan, making clean-up easier.
How to Make Crustless Spinach Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about three to four minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Finally, stir in the chopped fresh spinach and cook just until it wilts, which should take about two to three minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set the mixture aside to cool slightly. This tender vegetable mix forms the flavorful heart of your quiche.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs with milk and heavy cream until everything is smooth and well combined. This creamy liquid base will set into the custardy quiche texture we all love. Adding the right balance of milk and cream is key to keeping the quiche light yet indulgent.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, followed by salt, black pepper, and a touch of ground nutmeg if you’re using it. The cheeses add a deliciously melty, tangy layer of flavor, while the nutmeg gives a delicate, cozy warmth that elevates the entire dish. Then, fold in the sautéed spinach, onion, and garlic until everything is evenly mixed and invitingly colorful.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with non-stick spray or butter, and pour the combined mixture into it. Smooth the top gently so it bakes evenly. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is set and the top has turned a pretty light golden color. After baking, allow your quiche to rest for 10 minutes outside the oven to firm up for perfect slicing.
How to Serve Crustless Spinach Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or a few torn basil leaves on top can add a pop of color and freshness, making your quiche look as delightful as it tastes. For an extra touch of indulgence, a light dusting of grated Parmesan before serving never hurts.
Side Dishes
Serve your crustless spinach quiche alongside a crisp mixed green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance richness with bright acidity. Roasted cherry tomatoes or a light fruit medley can also round out the meal beautifully for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking beyond traditional slices? Try cutting the quiche into mini crustless muffin-sized portions for easy handheld treats at brunch or parties. Or serve warm wedges on colorful plates drizzled with a dollop of sour cream or a smear of avocado crema for an inviting flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Crustless Spinach Quiche Recipe makes excellent leftovers. Simply cover the cooled quiche tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect prepared meal to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this quiche by wrapping it well in foil and then placing it inside a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen quiche keeps well for up to 2 months, so it’s a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the edges regain their slight crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the texture is best preserved by baking gently.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out as much water as you can to avoid a soggy quiche. The flavor stays delightful and it’s a convenient alternative.
Is this quiche gluten-free?
Yes, since this recipe is crustless, it naturally contains no gluten, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.
Can I swap the cheeses for something else?
Definitely! Swiss, feta, or even goat cheese work beautifully and can add different flavor profiles. Just adjust quantities to your taste preferences.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is vegetarian as is, but just be sure to use vegetarian-friendly cheese that doesn’t contain animal rennet if that’s important to you.
What if I want to add other vegetables or proteins?
Feel free to customize with cooked mushrooms, peppers, or bits of bacon or ham. Just pre-cook these additions so they release moisture or become tender before mixing them in.
Final Thoughts
This Crustless Spinach Quiche Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite easy-to-make dishes that feels both comforting and elegant anytime of day. Its balance of creamy texture, fresh spinach, and cheesy flavor hits all the right notes without any fuss. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
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Crustless Spinach Quiche Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crustless Spinach Quiche is a delicious, low-carb breakfast or brunch option that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. Featuring sautéed spinach, savory onions and garlic, and rich cheeses baked into a creamy, custard-like filling without the heaviness of a crust, it’s perfect for vegetarians and those looking for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
Dairy and Eggs
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing the pie dish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Spinach: Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thawed and well-drained before adding. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the spinach mixture to cool slightly.
- Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and optional ground nutmeg for a warm, aromatic note.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold the sautéed spinach, onion, and garlic mixture into the custard mixture, blending everything until evenly combined.
- Bake the Quiche: Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top has turned lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes to allow it to set fully. Slice into portions and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- If fresh spinach is not available, frozen spinach (thawed and fully drained) works well as a substitute.
- Swap the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses for other favorites like Swiss or feta for different flavor profiles.
- To add extra flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon, mushrooms, or your preferred vegetables before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
