Spinach Quiche Recipe: A Savory Classic for Breakfast, Brunch, or Dinner
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, golden-brown quiche fresh out of the oven. Among the many variations, spinach quiche stands out as a flavorful and nutritious option that works for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Whether served with a crisp side salad, roasted potatoes, or simply enjoyed on its own, this recipe combines the richness of eggs and cream with the earthy freshness of spinach, making it a household favorite. 🥧🌿
Why Spinach Quiche is the Perfect Meal
Spinach quiche isn’t just a delicious dish—it’s versatile, easy to make ahead, and packs in important nutrients like iron, protein, and vitamins. Its light yet satisfying texture makes it ideal for family gatherings, weekend brunches, or a quick weekday dinner. You can customize it with cheese, bacon, mushrooms, or even gluten-free crust alternatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling:
- 200 g (7 oz) fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk
- 1 cup (100 g) grated cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or Cheddar work best)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, enhances the flavor of spinach)
For the Crust (optional, if not using store-bought):
- 1 ¼ cups (150 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115 g) cold butter, cubed
- 3–4 tbsp ice water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
If making from scratch, combine flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add ice water gradually until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes, roll out, and press into a pie dish. Pre-bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
2. Cook the Spinach
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, add garlic, then stir in spinach. Cook until wilted and any moisture evaporates. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Quiche
Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the crust. Sprinkle cheese on top. Pour the egg mixture over the filling. Gently tap to remove air bubbles.
5. Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and the top is golden. Allow to cool slightly before slicing. 🥄
Expert Chef Tips
- Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Don’t overcook the quiche. It should have a slight wobble in the center when you take it out—it will set as it cools.”
- Chef Bobby Flay: “Experiment with herbs like thyme, chives, or basil to elevate the flavor profile.”
- The Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond: “Prep ahead by making the crust and spinach filling the night before, then bake fresh in the morning.”
- Chef Ina Garten: “Always use high-quality cheese for the richest flavor. Gruyère is my personal favorite for quiche.”
Nutrition & Health Benefits
Spinach is not only delicious but also nutrient-dense. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits of this spinach quiche recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount (per serving) | Calories | Key Nutrients | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spinach | 50 g | 12 | Iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin K | Supports bone health, improves vision, boosts immunity |
| Eggs | 1 large | 70 | Protein, Vitamin B12, Choline | Supports brain function, muscle repair |
| Heavy Cream | 60 ml | 205 | Calcium, Vitamin D | Bone health, creamy texture |
| Cheese | 25 g | 100 | Protein, Calcium | Strengthens bones, adds richness |
| Onion & Garlic | 20 g | 15 | Antioxidants | Anti-inflammatory, heart-healthy |
Health & Safety Considerations
- Ensure spinach is cooked thoroughly to remove excess water, preventing a soggy crust.
- When using frozen spinach, always squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to avoid burns.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For food safety, reheat slices to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Delicious Pairings
Spinach quiche pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh fruit salad 🍇🍓🍍
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette 🥗
- Roasted potatoes or hash browns 🥔
- A refreshing mimosa or freshly squeezed orange juice 🍊🥂
10 FAQs About Spinach Quiche
- Can I make spinach quiche ahead of time? Yes! Bake it, let it cool, and refrigerate. Reheat before serving.
- Can I freeze quiche? Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- What cheese works best? Gruyère, Swiss, Cheddar, or a mix of cheeses add depth of flavor.
- Can I make it crustless? Yes! Simply grease your pie dish well and skip the crust for a low-carb version.
- Can I substitute milk alternatives? Yes, almond or oat milk works, though the texture may be slightly different.
- How do I know when it’s done? The center should be set but slightly wobbly when shaken.
- Can I add meat? Yes—bacon, ham, or sausage are great additions.
- Is spinach quiche healthy? Yes, it’s packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, though portion control is key due to cream and cheese.
- How do I prevent a soggy crust? Pre-bake the crust and ensure spinach is drained well.
- What can I serve with quiche? Salads, potatoes, fresh fruit, or light soups pair wonderfully.
More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love
- Easy Vegetable Quiche Recipe
- Healthy Spinach Recipes
- Best Breakfast Ideas
- Brunch Favorites for Any Occasion
Final Thoughts
This spinach quiche is more than just a recipe—it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. With its creamy, savory filling and flaky crust, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from spinach and eggs, making it both wholesome and delicious. 🥧💚
