Looking for a comforting, savoury dish that works for any occasion? Look no further than a spinach and ham quiche. This recipe combines a flaky, buttery crust with creamy custard, savoury ham, and fresh spinach, making it the perfect meal for brunch, lunch, or even dinner. The best part? It’s easy to make, can be prepped ahead of time, and is fully customizable to your taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy meal, this quiche will hit the spot.
Let’s dive into the details and make this delicious quiche together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Balanced: With eggs, cream, ham, and spinach, this quiche has the perfect balance of protein, veggies, and rich flavour.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Whether you need a brunch dish, a lunch option, or a light dinner, this quiche does it all.
- Can Be Made Ahead: Quiche is a meal prep champion. Make it in advance, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready to serve.
- Easily Customizable: Don’t like ham? Swap it for bacon, sausage, or a veggie filling. You can adjust it to suit any dietary preference.
What You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon butter (if using a store-bought crust, to grease the pan)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère work best)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your quiche will cook evenly and come out with the perfect texture.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust
- If using a store-bought pie crust, place it in a 9-inch pie dish and gently press it into the pan, crimping the edges if needed.
- If making your own crust, follow your recipe’s instructions and roll out the dough to fit your pie dish.
- Tip: Blind-bake the crust for about 10 minutes if you want a crispier bottom. Just line it with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights or dried beans, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes, then remove the weights and paper.
3. Cook the Spinach and Ham
- In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until wilted (or if using frozen spinach, ensure it’s completely thawed and the moisture is evaporated).
- Remove the spinach mixture from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Add the diced ham and mix well.
4. Make the Custard Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until evenly combined. This will create the creamy custard base for your quiche.
5. Assemble the Quiche
- Spread the spinach and ham mixture evenly over the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust.
- Pour the custard mixture over the filling, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Tip: If you like your quiche extra cheesy, sprinkle a little more shredded cheese on top before baking.
6. Bake the Quiche
- Bake the quiche for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the centre should come out clean.
- If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
7. Let It Cool
- Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the custard set fully and makes it easier to cut.
Variations and Additions
- Veggie Option: If you prefer a vegetarian quiche, simply skip the ham and load it up with extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Meat Lovers: Add crispy bacon or sausage crumbles along with the ham for a heartier quiche.
- Cheese Lovers: Try different cheese combinations, such as goat cheese and Gruyère, for a more complex flavour.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
Tips for the Perfect Quiche
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach gives the quiche a vibrant colour and a delicate flavour. If using frozen spinach, be sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the quiche.
- Don’t Overmix the Custard: Whisk the eggs and cream mixture gently. Overmixing can cause bubbles that affect the texture of the custard.
- Cool Before Serving: Quiche is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. Letting it cool for a bit helps the custard firm up, making it easier to slice.
Healthier Alternatives
- Lower Fat: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap the cream for a lighter version of milk.
- Lean Ham: Choose a leaner cut of ham, or opt for turkey ham if you’re watching your fat intake.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cheese and use a non-dairy milk alternative for a dairy-free version. You could also use a dairy-free crust.
The Best Cheese for Spinach and Ham Quiche
Choosing the right cheese is crucial for a flavorful spinach and ham quiche. Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy contrast to the creamy custard, while Swiss cheese offers a mild, nutty flavour. Gruyère is another excellent option, with its rich, earthy taste. If you want a more complex profile, blend a couple of cheeses together—cheddar and Parmesan, for instance, to create a lovely balance of sharpness and depth.
Adding More Vegetables
While the classic combination of spinach and ham is always a winner, feel free to add more vegetables for extra flavour and nutrition. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or roasted tomatoes pair wonderfully with spinach and ham in a quiche. Simply sauté them beforehand to remove excess moisture and add them to your filling for an even more vibrant dish.
Making Spinach and Ham Quiche Gluten-Free
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy this delicious quiche. Simply swap the regular pie crust for a gluten-free crust, or make your own crustless version. A crustless quiche is just as tasty and allows the rich custard and filling ingredients to shine. You can also use almond flour to create a gluten-free crust that is both light and flavorful.
Adding a Sweet Twist to Your Quiche
For a unique twist, try adding a touch of sweetness to your spinach and ham quiche. A small handful of caramelized onions or a dash of honey can enhance the savoury flavours and create a delightful contrast. Sweet potatoes or roasted butternut squash can also be added for a sweet, earthy flavour that balances the richness of the eggs and cream.
FAQs
1. Can I make quiche ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the quiche a day or two ahead of time, bake it, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
2. Can I freeze quiche?
Absolutely! After baking, allow the quiche to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes from frozen, or thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake for 10-15 minutes.
3. Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, using a store-bought crust saves time. Just make sure to blind-bake it to ensure it’s crisp before adding the filling.
4. Can I make this quiche without a crust?
Yes, you can make a crustless quiche! Simply grease your pie dish and pour the custard mixture directly in. Bake as directed, and it’ll set into a firm, eggy base.
5. How do I know when the quiche is done?
The quiche is done when the custard is set in the middle. You can insert a knife into the centre—if it comes out clean, your quiche is ready!
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your spinach and ham quiche with a light side salad, such as a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. You can also serve it with roasted potatoes or a fresh fruit salad for a complete meal. A glass of white wine or a light iced tea beautifully complements the richness of the quiche.
Why You’ll Love This Spinach and Ham Quiche
This spinach and ham quiche combines rich, savoury flavours with a creamy, satisfying texture. It’s versatile enough for any meal of the day, easy to make ahead, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just looking for a quick, delicious dinner, this recipe has you covered. With endless variations and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
