If you’re looking for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and elegant enough to impress at any brunch table, look no further than Savory Spinach Quiche. This French-inspired pie has a buttery crust, creamy custard, vibrant spinach, and just the right touch of cheese, making every bite a celebration of comfort and freshness. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or chilled for a picnic, this quiche delivers on taste, texture, and versatility without a hint of fussy preparation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Savory Spinach Quiche is how such simple, everyday ingredients come together to make something special. Each component brings a unique element, and knowing what they do will help your quiche shine every time!
- Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: The crisp, golden foundation for all the delicious layers above; store-bought or homemade both work beautifully.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps the onions and garlic mellow in the skillet.
- Onion, finely chopped: Provides a gentle sweetness and aromatic backbone to the filling.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with warm, savory depth for that irresistible aroma.
- Fresh spinach, roughly chopped: The hero of the dish, bringing color, nutrients, and a tender texture; fresh is best, but you can use thawed frozen spinach if needed.
- Large eggs: Essential for setting the filling into a sliceable, creamy custard.
- Half-and-half or heavy cream: Delivers a luscious, silky texture—choose cream for extra decadence.
- Salt: Balances and enhances all those glorious flavors.
- Black pepper: Offers gentle heat and a bit of complexity to the finish.
- Ground nutmeg: That magical pinch that brings a subtle warmth—classic in any French-style quiche.
- Shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese: Melty, nutty, and rich—this is where your quiche gets its ooey-gooey goodness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The finishing touch for a savory, golden top and a pop of umami punch.
How to Make Savory Spinach Quiche
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Crust
Start by warming up your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently drape your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it into the corners for a neat fit. Prick the base a few times with a fork to prevent bubbles, then give it a quick pre-bake for about 8 minutes. This little step makes sure your Savory Spinach Quiche’s base is never soggy, only perfectly crisp!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Spinach
While the crust is baking, heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Toss in your finely chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic next for a fragrant lift, stirring for just another minute. Now, pile in your fresh spinach, stirring until it’s just wilted and vibrant. Let this mixture cool slightly so your eggs don’t scramble when you assemble.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, crack in your eggs and pour in the half-and-half or heavy cream. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk it all together until smooth and well combined—this is the dreamy base that will set up your Savory Spinach Quiche’s creamy interior.
Step 4: Assemble the Filling
Evenly spread the sautéed spinach mixture over your prepared crust. Next, scatter over the shredded Gruyère (or Swiss) and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. These cheeses will melt into luscious pockets and create that classic quiche texture and flavor. Pour the egg mixture slowly over everything, letting it seep into all the delicious layers beneath.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your quiche-filled dish into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for an inviting golden top and a center that’s just set—a gentle jiggle is perfect! Let the Savory Spinach Quiche rest for about 10 minutes after baking; this keeps the filling creamy and sliceable.
How to Serve Savory Spinach Quiche
Garnishes
Brighten up your Savory Spinach Quiche just before serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A light dusting of extra Parmesan or a little drizzle of good olive oil adds a subtle pop of flavor and elegance, making every slice irresistible.
Side Dishes
This quiche is wonderfully versatile—pair it alongside a zesty arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette for a light meal, or serve it next to roasted potatoes if you’re craving something a bit more filling. Fresh fruit or a simple tomato salad also make lovely, refreshing sides for any time of day.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving a crowd (or just want to have some fun), cut your Savory Spinach Quiche into bite-sized squares or wedges, and present them on a serving board with toothpicks. For a brunch buffet, arrange slices alongside assorted cheeses, fresh bread, and jams. Or go individually plated with a small salad or mini bowl of soup for a sophisticated bistro-style meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Savory Spinach Quiche keeps beautifully in the fridge. Simply cover the pie dish tightly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or on-the-go breakfasts.
Freezing
If you want to make your quiche well in advance, you’re in luck—it freezes like a dream! Once fully cooled, wrap the quiche (whole or in individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then in a layer of foil. Pop it in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or until heated through. The microwave works in a pinch, though the crust may not be quite as crisp. For a freshly-baked feel, avoid overcooking to keep the filling creamy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just thaw about 5 ounces of frozen chopped spinach and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before using it. This prevents a watery quiche while still giving you that verdant spinach flavor.
What can I substitute for Gruyère cheese?
If you don’t have Gruyère or Swiss on hand, try using sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even Monterey Jack. Each cheese brings its own character, so feel free to play with your favorites.
Is it possible to make Savory Spinach Quiche crustless?
Yes, for a lighter or gluten-free option, simply skip the crust and pour your filling directly into a well-greased pie dish. Bake as usual, keeping an eye out as the cook time may be slightly shorter.
How do I know when the quiche is done?
Your Savory Spinach Quiche should be puffed around the edges and just set in the center when you give it a gentle jiggle. Avoid overbaking—once it’s golden and barely wobbly, it’s perfect! Let it rest before slicing so the custard finishes setting.
Can I add other vegetables or meats?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked bacon for a little extra flair. This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so you can truly make the Savory Spinach Quiche your own.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to whip up this Savory Spinach Quiche and make it a new favorite in your kitchen. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a casual dinner, you really can’t go wrong with a dish that brings comfort and a little bit of French flair to the table. Give it a try—then share it with someone special!
Print
Savory Spinach Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course, Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Savory Spinach Quiche is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavors of spinach and the richness of Gruyère cheese in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for a leisurely brunch or a light dinner, this vegetarian quiche is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, prick the bottom with a fork, and pre-bake for 8 minutes.
- Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add spinach and cook until just wilted, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust. Sprinkle with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese. Pour the egg mixture over the filling.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the center and lightly golden on top. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked bacon for variety.
- This quiche is delicious warm or chilled, making it great for meal prep or brunch gatherings.
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