Deliciously Light: Crustless Broccoli & Cheddar Quiche Recipe

When comfort food meets wholesome goodness, magic happens-enter the deliciously light crustless broccoli and cheddar quiche. this vibrant dish takes the classic quiche concept and reimagines it without the heavy, buttery crust, allowing the fresh flavors of tender broccoli and sharp cheddar to shine front and center. Perfect for a nourishing breakfast, a speedy lunch, or a satisfying dinner, this recipe is as versatile as it is indeed vibrant. Whether you’re looking to lighten up your meals or simply crave a savory bite packed with veggies and cheesy delight, this crustless quiche promises a satisfying experience without the extra carbs or calories. Let’s dive into a simple,tasty creation that proves healthy eating can be irresistibly flavorful.

Deliciously Light: Crustless Broccoli & Cheddar Quiche blends the rich creaminess of sharp cheddar with vibrant, tender broccoli in a luscious custard that’s irresistibly silky and satisfying. This recipe transforms a classic brunch staple into a wholesome,low-carb delight that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family breakfast or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, this quiche promises an elevated yet approachable experience in every bite.

prep and Cook Time

• Planning Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

yield

Serves 6 generous slices

Difficulty Level

Easy to Medium – Perfect for beginners eager to impress and seasoned cooks wanting a quick, healthy twist on quiche

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half for extra creaminess
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1 ½ cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed until just tender
• ½ cup finely diced onion, sautéed until translucent
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for subtle zest
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, a whisper to enhance custard depth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for sautéing
• Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect Silky Quiche

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round pie dish or quiche pan to prevent sticking.
2. Steam the broccoli</ until just tender-luminous green and slightly crisp-then drain and pat dry to avoid sogginess.
3. In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release aroma without burning.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and nutmeg</ until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy-this aeration contributes to the quiche’s lightness.
5. Fold in the sautéed onions and garlic,steamed broccoli,and shredded cheddar cheese</ evenly,ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
6. Pour the custard mixture carefully into the prepared dish, smoothing the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes</ or until the quiche is set-your knife inserted near the center should come out clean and the top lightly golden but not browned.
8. Remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to rest</ for at least 10 minutes. This resting time helps it firm up for easier slicing and enhances flavor melding.

Tips for Achieving a Light and Fluffy Texture Every Time

• Use room temperature eggs and dairy</ to create a smoother, more emulsified custard that sets evenly without curdling.
• Steaming broccoli instead of boiling preserves vibrant colour and texture, preventing a mushy base.
• Incorporate a swift but thorough whisking of the egg mixture to create tiny air pockets for lightness without overbeating.
• Avoid overbaking: quiche continues to cook slightly after removal – remove when just set to maintain silky softness.
• Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing to maintain structure and present perfectly neat portions.

Creative Variations to Elevate Your Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche

• Swap Cheddar for Gruyère or Fontina</ for a nuttier, creamier flavor.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized leeks</ to deepen savory notes.
• incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or tarragon</ for bright herbal freshness.
• For extra protein, fold in cooked bacon, sausage crumbles, or smoked salmon, turning this dish into a hearty main course.
• Experiment with different greens such as kale or spinach</ in place of broccoli for seasonal variety.
• Top with toasted almonds or breadcrumbs</ for a crunchy contrast on serving.

Chef’s Notes

Make-Ahead: Prepare the quiche mixture the night before and refrigerate. Pour into the dish just before baking to save time on busy mornings or entertaining days.

Storage: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven to preserve moisture and texture.

Substitutions: Use almond or oat milk as dairy alternatives for lactose intolerance but note slight changes in texture and flavor.

Common Pitfalls: Overcooked quiche will dry out and toughen. Check frequently towards the end of baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Present slices on pastel plates to enhance the quiche’s golden hue. Garnish with finely chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of vivid green. Pair with a crisp mixed green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, or roasted cherry tomatoes to add fresh acidity. A dollop of sour cream or tangy Greek yogurt on the side complements the creamy texture brilliantly. For brunch, serve alongside rustic whole grain toast or freshly baked savory scones for a complete, inviting spread.

For further exploration on light, crustless dishes, check out our collection of crustless quiche recipes. To deepen your understanding of egg custards and thier perfect setting, visit Serious Eats’ guide on making quiche.

Q&A

Q&A: Deliciously Light – Crustless Broccoli & Cheddar Quiche Recipe

Q1: What makes this Crustless Broccoli & Cheddar Quiche “deliciously light”?
A1: By skipping the customary pastry crust, this quiche dramatically cuts down on carbs and calories without sacrificing any creaminess or flavor. The star ingredients-fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar-bring vibrant taste and nutrition, making it a satisfying yet guilt-free dish.

Q2: Can I use frozen broccoli rather of fresh?
A2: Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works wonderfully here and can even save you prep time. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the quiche watery.

Q3: How do I prevent the quiche from turning rubbery without a crust?
A3: the key is balancing the eggs and dairy-too many eggs can toughen the texture. Using a combination of eggs and a splash of milk or cream keeps the quiche tender,while proper baking time at moderate heat ensures a silky custard center.Q4: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A4: Yes, this quiche is perfect for make-ahead meals! Bake it on the weekend, then slice and refrigerate. It reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave, making breakfast or lunch both easy and wholesome.Q5: Can I customize this quiche?
A5: Definitely! Feel free to swap broccoli for other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus. You can also experiment with different cheeses-goat cheese for tang, mozzarella for meltiness, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Q6: What sides pair well with this crustless quiche?
A6: Keep it light and fresh with a crisp mixed green salad, cherry tomatoes, or a simple fruit salad. For a heartier meal, roasted sweet potatoes or a grain bowl also complement the rich cheddar flavor wonderfully.

Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A7: Yes, naturally! since there’s no pastry crust, this quiche is entirely gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Q8: How do I know when the quiche is perfectly cooked?
A8: The edges should be set and slightly puffed, while the center should jiggle gently when you shake the pan. It will continue to firm up as it cools, so avoid overbaking for the best creamy texture.

Dive into this crustless quiche adventure and enjoy a lighter, flavorful twist on a timeless classic!

To Conclude

Whip up this crustless broccoli and cheddar quiche whenever you crave something both nourishing and delightfully light. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors prove that you don’t need a flaky crust to enjoy a satisfying, wholesome meal. Whether for brunch, lunch, or a cozy dinner, this recipe brings simplicity and nutrition to your plate without sacrificing taste. So next time you’re in the mood for a dish that’s as comforting as it is clever, remember that deliciousness can be light-one cheesy, veggie-packed slice at a time.