Crustless Spinach Quiche: A Light and Flavorful Delight
If you’re searching for a versatile, wholesome, and delicious dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this Crustless Spinach Quiche is a must-try! Packed with nutrient-rich spinach, creamy eggs, and savory cheese, this quiche is not only easy to whip up but also gluten-free and low-carb, making it ideal for a variety of dietary preferences. Without a crust, it’s lighter than traditional quiche, yet it retains all the comforting flavors you love. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or prepping a quick weekday meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and taste.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
To create this delightful crustless spinach quiche, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups fresh spinach, finely chopped (or substitute with baby spinach for a milder flavor)
- 4 large eggs, preferably free-range for richer flavor
- ½ cup whole milk (or substitute with half-and-half for extra creaminess, or a plant-based milk for a dairy-free option)
- ¾ cup shredded cheese, such as sharp cheddar, Swiss, or a blend of your favorites (feta or mozzarella work wonderfully, too!)
- ⅓ cup yellow or white onion, finely diced for a subtle sweetness
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (for greasing the pie dish)
- Optional add-ins:
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder or 1 minced garlic clove for extra depth
- A pinch of nutmeg for a classic quiche flavor
- ¼ cup diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the quiche bakes evenly and achieves a perfectly golden top. Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make serving a breeze.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the fresh spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, then finely chop it. If using baby spinach, a rough chop is sufficient as it’s more tender. Dice the onion into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the quiche.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, crack the four eggs and whisk them until fully blended. Add the ½ cup of milk and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. The milk helps create a creamy, custard-like texture in the finished quiche. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using optional seasonings like garlic powder or nutmeg, whisk them in at this stage for an extra layer of flavor.
- Combine the Filling: Gently fold in the chopped spinach, shredded cheese, and diced onion into the egg mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed. The spinach will add vibrant color and nutrients, while the cheese brings a rich, melty texture. Feel free to experiment with cheese varieties—sharp cheddar adds boldness, while Swiss offers a nutty, mild flavor.
- Pour and Bake: Carefully pour the egg and spinach mixture into the greased pie dish, ensuring the ingredients are spread evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. The top should be lightly golden, with a slightly puffed appearance. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the quiche to set fully, making it easier to cut clean, beautiful slices. Serve warm for a cozy meal or refrigerate and enjoy chilled for a refreshing twist—perfect for warm weather or meal prep!
Tips for Success
- Customize Your Quiche: This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Add diced ham, crumbled bacon, or smoked salmon for a protein boost. For a vegetarian twist, toss in sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste. Gruyère adds a sophisticated touch, while feta brings a tangy, salty kick.
- Make It Ahead: This quiche stores beautifully! Prepare it a day in advance, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes or enjoy cold.
- Freezing Instructions: To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Spinach Alternatives: If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach works well. Thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to the mixture to avoid a soggy quiche.
Serving Suggestions
This crustless spinach quiche pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a balanced meal. Serve it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For brunch, complement it with roasted potatoes or fresh fruit. A slice of crusty bread or a warm dinner roll can round out the meal for heartier appetites. This dish is also a fantastic addition to a potluck or picnic, as it’s easy to transport and tastes great at room temperature.
Nutritional Benefits
This quiche is as nutritious as it is delicious! Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron and antioxidants. Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline, while the cheese adds calcium and flavor. By skipping the crust, this recipe keeps the carb count low, making it a great option for those following keto, gluten-free, or low-carb diets.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crustless spinach quiche is a fantastic go-to recipe for busy mornings, leisurely brunches, or light dinners. Its simplicity means you can whip it up with pantry staples, and its versatility allows you to customize it to your liking. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and delivers restaurant-quality results every time.
