Crustless Ham and Cheese Quiche
Crustless Ham and Cheese Quiche
If you’re seeking a cozy and versatile dish that hits the sweet spot between breakfast, lunch, and dinner, look no further than a crustless ham and cheese quiche. This delightful recipe is packed with flavor and is so simple to prepare that it will quickly become a staple in your home. Adorned with savory ham, gooey cheese, and a vibrant touch of spinach, this quiche is not only delicious but also brimming with wholesome ingredients that can satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Why Make This Recipe
- It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ham.
- Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep and makes a great breakfast, brunch, or light dinner.
In today’s fast-paced world, having a go-to recipe that combines comfort and nutrition is essential. A crustless ham and cheese quiche offers that in spades, making it a reliable choice for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends.
Simple Way to Prepare Crustless Ham and Cheese Quiche
Creating a crustless ham and cheese quiche is not only quick but also a joyful cooking experience. Once you gather your ingredients, you will see just how effortless this dish can be. The best part? No pie crust means fewer calories and less prep time! Let’s dive into the art of making this scrumptious dish.
Ingredients
For this easy crustless ham and cheese quiche, you’ll need the following:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- 1 cup spinach (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the pan)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Don’t forget to grease a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking!
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps create the quiche’s airy texture.
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Stir in the diced ham, along with the shredded cheese and spinach if you’re using it. Make sure to season with salt and pepper to taste—this is where flavor really starts to shine!
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Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pie dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for a uniform bake.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the middle and lightly golden on top. You’ll know it’s ready when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Patience is key here, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Storing Leftover Crustless Ham and Cheese Quiche
Proper storage will keep your quiche fresh and tasty for several days. Follow these guidelines:
- Refrigerate: Store the quiche in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For quick reheating, microwaving for 1–2 minutes works well.
Best Ways to Serve Crustless Ham and Cheese Quiche
This dish isn’t just for breakfast—its charm lies in its versatility. Consider these serving ideas that elevate your quiche experience:
- Pair with a fresh salad: A light arugula or spinach salad with a vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors of the quiche perfectly.
- Top with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chives, parsley, or dill before serving adds a refreshing touch.
- Enjoy with toast: Serve with crusty bread or warm baguette slices to soak up the flavors.
- Add a side of fruit: A colorful fruit salad complements the meal, providing a sweet contrast to the savory quiche.
Tips to Make Crustless Ham and Cheese Quiche
Here are a few tips to ensure your quiche turns out perfect every time:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with various cheeses; Gruyere, feta, or even goat cheese can add a unique twist.
- If you’re looking for an extra boost of nutrition, consider adding diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
Variations or Substitutions
This crustless ham and cheese quiche is incredibly adaptable. If you prefer a meatless version, simply omit the ham and add in extra veggies like tomatoes, zucchini, or broccoli. Alternatively, to spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick!
If you’re looking to switch up the cheese, you can replace cheddar with a creamy Brie or tangy feta for a gourmet touch. How about trying a combination of Swiss and Gruyere for a rich and flavorful twist?
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the quiche the night before and simply bake it in the morning. You can also bake it ahead of time and reheat it for a quick meal.
Q: Can I use chicken instead of ham?
A: Yes, shredded cooked chicken makes a delicious alternative to ham. You might also consider using turkey for a lighter option.
Q: How can I make it gluten-free?
A: This quiche is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t use a crust. Just ensure that your other ingredients, like the cheese, are certified gluten-free.
Nutritional Info
Being mindful of what you eat doesn’t have to compromise flavor. This crustless ham and cheese quiche is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (assuming 8 servings per quiche):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
It provides a healthy dose of protein and fats, making it an excellent choice for a satiating meal.
What to Serve With
When planning a meal, consider what else you can throw into the mix. Pair this quiche with:
- A light soup: A creamy tomato or vegetable soup complements the dish wonderfully.
- Chips: A side of crispy potato chips or tortilla chips can offer some crunch.
- Wine or Mimosa: For brunch, consider serving a light wine or refreshing mimosa alongside the quiche.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking is an art, but everyone makes mistakes. Here are some common blunders to avoid when making your crustless quiche:
- Not greasing the pan: Skipping this can lead to a stuck quiche, making serving a chore.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your quiche; it should be set but still slightly jiggly in the middle to avoid a dry texture.
- Not seasoning: Cheese and eggs can be bland without proper seasoning, so don’t skimp on the salt and pepper.
Conclusion
In the realm of hearty but effortless meals, crustless ham and cheese quiche stands out as a time-saving, flavor-packed option that everyone will adore. With just a few staple ingredients, you can bake a delightful dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any meal in between. It’s easy to make, delightful to eat, and bursts with wonderful flavors that will beckon you back for seconds. Enjoy crafting this delightful quiche, and watch it become a beloved favorite in your home as you explore all the delicious variations and sides it can inspire!
Feel free to play with ingredients, and happy cooking!
Print
Crustless Ham and Cheese Quiche
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A cozy and versatile crustless ham and cheese quiche, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- 1 cup spinach (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the diced ham, shredded cheese, and spinach if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pie dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Great for meal prep and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
