Crustless Quiche

Crustless quiche is a light, protein-rich dish that delivers all the flavor and creaminess of traditional quiche without the added calories and carbs from a pastry crust. It is simple to prepare, highly customizable, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. By baking the filling directly in the pan, the eggs and dairy set into a soft, custard-like texture with a lightly golden top.

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Ingredients

Base Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (low-fat or whole, depending on preference)
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or light cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or feta)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika or nutmeg

Vegetable and Filling Options

Choose any combination totaling about 1½ to 2 cups:

• ½ cup chopped onion
• ½ cup bell peppers
• ½ cup mushrooms, sliced
• ½ cup spinach, chopped
• ½ cup zucchini, grated and squeezed dry
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Protein Options (Optional)

• ½ cup cooked chicken, diced
• ½ cup cooked turkey or ham, chopped
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• ½ cup smoked salmon

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• Non-stick cooking spray or extra oil for greasing the pan

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Equipment

• 8-inch or 9-inch baking dish or pie pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Skillet

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Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Fillings

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add onions and cook until soft and translucent.
4. Add other vegetables (except spinach) and sauté until most of the moisture has evaporated.
5. Stir in spinach and cook just until wilted.
6. Remove from heat and allow the vegetables to cool slightly.

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Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. In a large bowl, crack the eggs and whisk until well combined.
2. Add milk, Greek yogurt or cream, salt, black pepper, and paprika or nutmeg.
3. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
4. Stir in shredded cheese, reserving a small amount for the top if desired.

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Step 3: Assemble the Quiche

1. Grease the baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray or oil.
2. Spread the cooked vegetables and protein evenly in the dish.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the fillings, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
4. Sprinkle reserved cheese on top.

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Baking Instructions

Step 4: Bake the Quiche

1. Place the dish on the center rack of the oven.
2. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 35–45 minutes.
3. The quiche is done when the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.
4. The top should be lightly golden.

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Step 5: Rest Before Serving

1. Remove the quiche from the oven.
2. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
3. This allows the quiche to firm up and makes cutting easier.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Enjoy for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.

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Tips for Best Results

• Always cook vegetables first to remove excess moisture.
• Use full-fat dairy for richer texture or low-fat for a lighter version.
• Avoid overbaking to prevent a rubbery texture.
• Customize with herbs such as thyme, parsley, or chives.

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Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 170°C (340°F) for 10 minutes or microwave individual slices.