Cheddar Spinach Quiche
Cheddar Spinach Quiche is a delightful combination of creamy, sharp cheddar cheese and nutrient-rich spinach, all enveloped in a flaky pastry crust. It's a perfect dish for brunch or a light dinner, appealing to both cheese lovers and those seeking a comforting vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain spinach well on absorbent paper.
- Toss cheese with flour. Add spinach, milk, eggs, bacon, and seasonings.
- Mix well. Pour into pastry shell.
- Bake at 350° for 1 hour.
- Garnish with additional bacon if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded, as it melts better. If you're short on time, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen; just sauté it until wilted. You can also substitute the bacon with diced ham or cooked sausage for a different taste. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheddar Spinach Quiche is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or fruit for a light meal. For added flavor, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It also makes a great accompaniment to hearty dishes like Savory Sausage Casserole or Barbecued Lima Beans.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, heating in 30-second intervals until hot, but note this may affect the crust's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Spinach Quiche contains roughly 408 calories, with 9g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese in this quiche?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or feta for varied flavors and textures. Just remember to adjust the seasoning, as some cheeses can be saltier than others.
How can I make this quiche crust from scratch?
To make a homemade crust, combine 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Pulse until crumbly, then add 3-4 tablespoons of cold water until the dough holds together. Roll out and fit into your pie dish before filling.
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quiche in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).