Broccoli, Cheddar Cheese and Ham Quiche

Ingredients:

1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

1 egg yolk, beaten

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup chopped, cooked ham

1 cup chopped broccoli florets

3 large eggs

1 cup skim milk (see notes)

¾ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375. Prepare pie crust as directed if it needs to pre-bake. (I use a frozen pie crust that’s ready to fill.)

Brush the bottom of the pie shell with the egg yolk. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the bottom of the pie crust. Scatter the chopped ham on top of the cheese then add the chopped broccoli florets. Place the pie shell on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.

In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Add the salt and pepper and stir to combine.

Pour the egg mixture into the pie shell until ¾ full.

Place the baking tray with the quiche in the oven and bake at 375 for 40-45 minutes, until set.

Let the quiche cool for 10 minutes before slicing so it sets up.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes:

Pie Crust Preparation:

If using a store-bought pie crust, ensure it’s thawed if frozen. Some store-bought crusts require pre-baking, so follow the package instructions if needed.

Egg Yolk Application:

Brushing the bottom of the pie crust with beaten egg yolk helps to create a barrier, preventing the crust from becoming soggy from the filling.

Cheese and Filling Layering:

Layering the shredded cheese first ensures it melts evenly and helps hold the filling ingredients in place.

Cooking Ham:

Make sure the ham is cooked and chopped into small pieces to ensure even distribution and avoid any chewy texture in the final quiche.

Broccoli Preparation:

Use fresh broccoli florets, and ensure they are chopped into small pieces. Blanching the broccoli briefly can also help it cook more evenly and retain its vibrant color.

Egg Mixture:

Whisking the eggs and milk thoroughly ensures a smooth and well-blended custard filling. Using skim milk keeps the quiche lighter, but whole milk or cream can be used for a richer texture.

Seasoning:

Adjust the kosher salt and black pepper to taste. You can also add other spices or herbs like paprika, garlic powder, or thyme for extra flavor.

Baking:

Placing the pie shell on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil helps catch any spills or drips and ensures even baking.

Cooling Time:

Allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the custard set properly and makes for cleaner slices.

Serving:

The quiche can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s versatile and can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as a light dinner.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère.

Each will give the quiche a slightly different flavor.

Can I make this quiche without ham?

Absolutely! You can leave out the ham for a vegetarian quiche, or replace it with cooked bacon, sausage, or a different type of protein if you prefer.

What type of pie crust should I use?

You can use a store-bought pie crust for convenience or make your own homemade pie crust.

If using a store-bought crust, make sure to follow the package instructions for pre-baking if needed.

Can I use whole milk instead of skim milk?

Yes, you can use whole milk instead of skim milk for a richer quiche.

The nutritional values and texture will vary slightly with whole milk.

How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?

The quiche is done when the center is set and does not jiggle when you gently shake the baking dish.

The edges should be golden brown.

Can I add other vegetables to the quiche?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

Make sure to chop and cook them properly before adding them to the quiche.

Can I freeze the quiche?

Yes, you can freeze the quiche.

To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

To reheat, bake it from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

How long does the quiche last in the refrigerator?

The quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Make sure it is covered tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Can I make the quiche ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the quiche a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it.

You can also bake it ahead of time and reheat it when needed.

What can I serve with the quiche?

The quiche pairs well with a fresh salad, fruit, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Warm bread or a light soup are also great accompaniments.