Broccoli Cheddar Quiche: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Quiche is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. This broccoli cheddar quiche is a classic combination that’s sure to please everyone. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and can be customized to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option or a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe is a winner.

## Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Quiche

* **Flavorful and comforting:** The combination of broccoli and cheddar is a classic for a reason. The earthy broccoli pairs perfectly with the sharp, creamy cheddar cheese.
* **Easy to make:** This recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or weekend brunch.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this quiche with different cheeses, vegetables, or meats. Feel free to experiment and create your own signature version.
* **Make-ahead friendly:** Quiche is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and simply reheat it before serving.
* **Perfect for any occasion:** From casual family meals to elegant brunch gatherings, this broccoli cheddar quiche is always a hit.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start baking, gather these ingredients:

**For the Crust:**

* 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 1/4 cup ice water

**Alternatively, you can use a store-bought pie crust to save time.**

**For the Filling:**

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 small onion, chopped
* 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
* 4 large eggs
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
* 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

## Equipment You’ll Need

* 9-inch pie plate
* Mixing bowls
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Rolling pin (if making your own crust)
* Whisk
* Sauté pan

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect broccoli cheddar quiche:

### 1. Make the Crust (or use a store-bought one)

**If making your own crust:**

1. **Combine dry ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. **Cut in the butter:** Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter pieces should be about pea-sized.
3. **Add ice water:** Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
4. **Form a disc:** Gently form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and prevents the crust from shrinking during baking.
5. **Roll out the dough:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle.
6. **Transfer to pie plate:** Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the plate. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to create a decorative border.
7. **Pre-bake the crust (blind bake):** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment paper and pie weights, and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. This process, called blind baking, helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy when the filling is added.

**If using a store-bought crust:**

1. Simply thaw the crust according to the package directions.
2. Pre-bake the crust as directed above.

### 2. Prepare the Filling

1. **Sauté the onion and broccoli:** Heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the chopped broccoli florets and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
2. **Whisk the eggs and dairy:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Make sure the mixture is well combined.
3. **Add cheese and vegetables:** Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and the sautéed onion and broccoli to the egg mixture. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

### 3. Assemble and Bake the Quiche

1. **Pour filling into crust:** Pour the broccoli cheddar filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Spread the filling evenly over the bottom of the crust.
2. **Top with remaining cheese:** Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the quiche.
3. **Bake the quiche:** Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35-45 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
4. **Cool and serve:** Let the quiche cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly. You can serve the quiche warm or at room temperature.

## Tips for the Perfect Quiche

* **Use cold butter for the crust:** Cold butter is essential for creating a flaky and tender crust. Make sure the butter is very cold before cutting it into the flour.
* **Don’t overmix the crust dough:** Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust. Mix the dough just until it comes together.
* **Blind bake the crust:** Blind baking helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy when the filling is added. Make sure to use pie weights or dried beans to weigh down the crust during baking.
* **Sauté the vegetables:** Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the filling helps to soften them and enhances their flavor.
* **Use good quality cheese:** Using high-quality cheddar cheese will make a big difference in the flavor of your quiche.
* **Don’t overbake the quiche:** Overbaking can make the filling dry and rubbery. Bake the quiche until it is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
* **Let the quiche cool before serving:** Cooling the quiche allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice and serve.

## Variations and Additions

This broccoli cheddar quiche is delicious as is, but you can also customize it to your liking with different variations and additions. Here are a few ideas:

* **Add meat:** For a heartier quiche, add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage to the filling.
* **Use different cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.
* **Add other vegetables:** Try adding other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
* **Make it gluten-free:** Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this quiche gluten-free.
* **Add fresh herbs:** Stir in some fresh herbs like thyme, chives, or parsley to the filling for added flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

Broccoli cheddar quiche is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **For breakfast or brunch:** Serve the quiche with a side of fresh fruit, yogurt, or toast.
* **For lunch:** Serve the quiche with a side salad or soup.
* **For dinner:** Serve the quiche with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad.
* **For a potluck or party:** Cut the quiche into smaller slices and serve as an appetizer.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Leftover quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
* **Freeze:** Quiche can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To thaw, transfer the quiche to the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

## Nutritional Information (approximate per slice)

*Calories: 350-450*

*Protein: 15-20g*

*Fat: 25-35g*

*Carbohydrates: 15-20g*

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.*

## Conclusion

This broccoli cheddar quiche recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic flavor combination. With its flaky crust, creamy filling, and savory ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or an elegant brunch dish, this quiche is a perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this homemade broccoli cheddar quiche!