Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Recipe

I love finding those go-to recipes that always hit the spot, and this broccoli cheddar quiche recipe is definitely one of them. Imagine a golden-brown crust cradling a creamy, savory custard, studded with tender, za’atar spiced broccolini and rich cheddar cheese. It’s a perfect meal for busy families looking for easy dinner ideas, a beautiful addition to any brunch, or a hearty option for meal prep recipes. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting, high-protein snack or a full family dinner that everyone will ask for again. I often bake a big quiche on Sunday afternoon, so we have healthy options for lunches throughout the week.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Their Roles)

Crafting a delicious broccoli cheddar quiche recipe starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this hearty family meal, with quick notes on their role:

• 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour: Base for your flaky pie crust.
• 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, cold & cubed: Creates a tender, rich pastry.
• 60 ml (1/4 cup) ice water: Binds the dough without overworking it.
• 2.5 g (1/2 teaspoon) fine sea salt: Enhances overall flavor.
• 250 g (1 large bunch) broccolini, trimmed: Adds vibrant color and essential nutrients.
• 15 ml (1 tablespoon) olive oil: For sautéing vegetables.
• 1 medium shallot, diced & 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provide an aromatic, savory depth.
• 10 g (2 teaspoons) za’atar seasoning: Adds unique earthy, tangy flavor to the broccolini.
• 4 large eggs: The ‘binding magic’ for creamy custard.
• 240 ml (1 cup) whole milk: Creates that rich, custardy texture.
• 180 g (1.5 cups) sharp cheddar cheese, grated: For irresistible tangy, cheesy flavor.
• 2.5 g (1/2 teaspoon) black pepper & 1 g (1/4 teaspoon) ground nutmeg: Basic seasonings that elevate savory notes.
• 120 g (1/2 cup) plain full-fat yogurt: Base for the bright sumac drizzle.

For flexible substitutions and budget-friendly swaps, consider these options:

• Cheese: Swiss, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack work beautifully, so use what’s on sale.
• Dairy: Almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option; skim milk for a lighter quiche.
• Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers are excellent alternatives if broccolini isn’t available.
• Crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust, or skip the crust entirely for a frittata-style bake.
• Yogurt: Sour cream can be swapped for yogurt in the sumac drizzle if that’s what’s in the fridge.

Healthier Family Meals & Swaps

Making this broccoli cheddar quiche recipe part of your healthy eating routine is simple. Opt for reduced-fat cheese to lower calories, or use skim milk for a lighter quiche. Boost fiber and vitamins by adding even more broccolini or other favorite veggies. Broccoli is generally available year-round, so pick fresh, firm florets. Store leftover cooked quiche tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, which is perfect for easy dinner ideas throughout the week.

Cooking Method, Simplified

Making this hearty broccoli cheddar quiche recipe is straightforward. Here are the steps to create this delicious, family-friendly meal:

1. Prepare Oven & Crust (5-10 min): Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Have your pre-baked pie crust ready in a 23 cm (9-inch) pie dish, lightly golden. If crust edges brown too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
2. Sauté Veggies (10-12 min): Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté diced shallot 3-4 min until soft. Add garlic & broccolini; cook 5-7 min until tender-crisp. Stir in za’atar 1 min until fragrant. Let cool.
3. Whisk Custard (2 min): Whisk eggs, milk, salt, pepper, nutmeg until combined and slightly foamy.
4. Layer Filling (3 min): Sprinkle half cheddar cheese into crust. Top with cooled broccolini and shallot mixture evenly.
5. Finish Assembly (2 min): Pour egg mixture over veggies and cheese. Sprinkle remaining cheddar for a golden top.
6. Bake Until Set (40-50 min): Bake quiche at 190°C (375°F) for 40-50 min. Center should be set, top golden brown. Knife inserted comes out clean.
7. Rest & Serve (20 min): Remove quiche; cool on wire rack for 20 min before slicing. Resting sets custard for clean wedges.
8. Prepare Drizzle & Garnish (2 min): Whisk yogurt, sumac, lemon juice. Slice quiche; drizzle yogurt and garnish with almonds and parsley/dill. This makes for a great family dinner idea.

For quick family dinners, consider these time-saving shortcuts for your broccoli cheddar quiche recipe: use a store-bought pie crust, pre-chopped frozen broccolini (thaw and drain), and pre-shredded cheese.

To avoid common quiche pitfalls: prevent a soggy crust by blind-baking and cooling. Don’t overbake; pull when the center is just set. Cool sautéed vegetables slightly before adding to egg custard.

Perfect Moments to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Quiche

This savory dish is wonderfully versatile, perfect for any meal. It shines as a cozy family dinner or a showstopping brunch center-piece.

Its make-ahead potential also makes this broccoli cheddar quiche recipe excellent for potlucks and holiday spreads, offering comfort and convenience.

Make it Special: broccoli cheddar quiche recipe for every occasion

Elevate your broccoli cheddar quiche recipe for any event, from simple family dinners to festive gatherings.

• Kids’ Lunchbox: Pack cold slices for a healthy, on-the-go meal.
• Festive Table: Garnish with fresh chives or paprika for an appealing display.
• Meal Prep: Bake on Sunday for easy, ready-to-eat healthy family meals all week.

Serve alongside a fresh green salad, roasted asparagus, or a simple fruit salad. A dollop of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce makes a nice topping.

Nutrition and Wellness Benefits

The broccoli cheddar quiche recipe is more than just delicious; it offers significant nutritional advantages for balanced eating.

• Protein-Packed: Eggs provide essential protein, crucial for muscle health and satiety, making it a great high-protein snack.
• Fiber-Rich: Broccoli adds valuable dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting overall gut health.
• Vitamin-Dense: Enjoy a boost of vitamins K, C, and folate, all naturally abundant in the vibrant broccoli.
• Healthy Fats: Cheese and eggs contribute beneficial fats, helping you feel fuller longer and supporting energy levels.

Healthy Family Meals & Diet-Friendly Swaps

The broccoli cheddar quiche recipe adapts beautifully to support healthy family meals and diverse dietary needs.

• Keto-Friendly: For a low-carb meal, prepare a crustless version in a greased pie dish.
• Gluten-Free: Simply choose a certified gluten-free pie crust.
• Vegetarian: This quiche is naturally vegetarian and a satisfying option.
• High-Protein: Boost protein further with extra eggs or a sprinkle of cooked, shredded chicken, excellent for meal prep recipes for weight loss.

Everyday Practical Benefits

This broccoli cheddar quiche recipe provides excellent practical benefits, making it a go-to for convenience and ease in the kitchen.

• Quick Cooking: It requires minimal hands-on time, perfect for easy dinner ideas on busy weeknights.
• Affordable Ingredients: Uses common, budget-friendly pantry staples, making wholesome eating accessible.
• Versatile: Adaptable with whatever veggies or cheese you have on hand, reducing food waste and maximizing flexibility.

Meal Prep Recipes for Weight Loss & Busy Lifestyles

The broccoli cheddar quiche recipe is a fantastic solution for meal prep recipes for weight loss and busy lifestyles.

• Excellent for Meal Prep: Bakes up a whole meal for the week, saving precious time.
• Portable: Perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts, lunches, or protein-packed snacks.
• Freezer-Friendly: Can be frozen whole or in slices for future quick meals.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A reliable dish that consistently satisfies diverse tastes, making family dinners simple.

Expert Tips and Flavor Upgrades

Discover simple techniques to enhance the taste, texture, and presentation of your quiche.

Elevate Your Broccoli Cheddar Quiche

Take your broccoli cheddar quiche recipe to the next level with these expert tips:

• Roast the Broccoli: Roasting the florets before adding them deepens their flavor, adding a lovely caramelized note. I often do this while the oven preheats, saving me an extra pan.
• Caramelize Onions: Cooking onions slowly until golden adds a sweet, savory complexity that transforms the entire dish.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Dill, chives, or thyme finely chopped elevate the aroma and taste.
• Presentation: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of paprika for visual appeal.

For spice, a pinch of smoked paprika offers a smoky twist, while a dash of cayenne pepper provides a subtle kick. Garlic powder and onion powder boost savory depth effortlessly.

For dietary needs, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheddar shreds for a dairy-free option. This recipe is naturally nut-free, but always double-check store-bought crust ingredients. Note that it’s not suitable for an egg allergy as eggs are the core.

Common Questions Answered

Get answers to frequently asked questions about this versatile and delicious quiche.

“Is this broccoli cheddar quiche recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?”

Yes, for a low-carb option, skip the crust entirely and bake it in a greased pie dish. It will resemble a frittata but still be delicious and packed with protein and veggies, making it a great low-carb meal.

“What’s the best way to store leftover broccoli cheddar quiche for meal prep?”

Store cooled quiche slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices well and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

“Can I use frozen broccoli in this broccoli cheddar quiche recipe?”

Absolutely! Thaw the frozen broccoli first and make sure to drain it very well to prevent a watery quiche. I always squeeze mine between layers of paper towels to get out every bit of excess moisture for the best texture.

“How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust for my broccoli cheddar quiche?”

Blind baking the pie crust before adding the filling is key. Bake it for about 10-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until lightly golden, then cool before filling. This creates a barrier against the moist filling.

“What other vegetables can I add to my broccoli cheddar quiche recipe?”

Feel free to get creative! Sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach (squeezed dry), bell peppers, or even roasted sweet potato cubes make great additions to this versatile quiche. Focus on veggies that cook down well.

“Where can I find high-quality ingredients for this healthy family meal?”

Look for organic eggs and dairy at your local farmer’s market or grocery store. Fresh, seasonal broccoli will always yield the best flavor and nutrients for your broccoli cheddar quiche recipe. Using organic ingredients supports overall wellness.

This easy broccoli cheddar quiche recipe offers a satisfying, versatile, and stress-free solution for any meal, perfect for busy families. Don’t forget to save or share this healthy family meal on Pinterest for later inspiration.

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