This Easter Ham and Spinach Quiche is a tasty treat perfect for any brunch! With creamy eggs, yummy ham, and fresh spinach, it’s like a celebration in every bite.
Honestly, if leftovers happen, they make a great snack too! I love warming a slice for breakfast—it’s an easy and delicious way to start my day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: You can use a pre-made crust for ease, but a homemade one adds a personal touch. If you’re avoiding gluten, try a store-bought gluten-free crust or even a cauliflower crust for something different.
Eggs: The star of the show! I recommend using large eggs for this recipe, but you can use medium eggs if that’s what you have. Just adjust the quantity slightly if needed.
Milk or Half-and-Half: Whole milk gives a nice creaminess, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, skim milk works too. For a dairy-free version, coconut or almond milk are good substitutes, though they will change the flavor slightly.
Ham: Easter ham adds a festive touch, but any cooked ham works well. You can also use turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ham for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is perfect for this recipe, but frozen spinach can work too. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid extra moisture in the quiche.
Cheese: Gruyère is my favorite for its flavor, but feel free to switch it up with Swiss or cheddar. Mixing cheeses can also add depth, so don’t hesitate to experiment!
How Do I Ensure My Quiche is Perfectly Set and Not Runny?
A runny quiche can be frustrating! The key is to ensure you whisk your egg mixture thoroughly to incorporate air, which helps it set well during baking. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to sauté the spinach and onions thoroughly to reduce moisture content before adding them to the egg mixture.
- Bake the quiche at the right temperature, about 375°F, and keep an eye on the baking time.
- Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan. If the center jiggles too much, it needs more time.
- Let it rest after baking. This helps it firm up before you slice.
Following these steps will help you achieve a delicious, firmly set quiche every time!
How to Make Easter Ham and Spinach Quiche
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Quiche:
- 1 pie crust (9-inch), pre-made or homemade
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup cooked Easter ham, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or cheddar), shredded
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (for sautéing spinach and onion)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful quiche takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake, for a total time of around 1 hour. After baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes, and then it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the quiche will bake evenly and get that lovely golden color on top.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Take your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch quiche or pie dish. Gently press the crust into place and crimp the edges if you like. Set the crust aside while you prepare the filling.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the butter or olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. If you’re using garlic, add it now and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the Spinach:
Next, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes, or until it has wilted down. Once done, take the skillet off the heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or half-and-half, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until everything is well combined. This mixture is what gives your quiche that rich flavor!
6. Combine Your Filling:
Now stir in the cooled spinach and onion mixture, diced ham, and shredded cheese into the egg mixture. Make sure it’s distributed evenly.
7. Fill the Crust:
Pour the delicious egg mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out so it fills evenly.
8. Bake the Quiche:
Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. It’s done when the center is set and the top is golden brown. To test, gently shake the pan; the center shouldn’t be liquid or jiggly.
9. Cool Before Serving:
Once baked, take the quiche out of the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This helps it firm up and makes slicing easier.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Easter Ham and Spinach Quiche is now ready to enjoy! Serve it warm or at room temperature, and get ready to dig into a slice of deliciousness.
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Gruyère is a great choice for flavor, you can substitute it with Swiss or cheddar cheese based on your preference. Mixing different cheeses can also create a unique taste profile.
What Should I Do If My Quiche Is Still Liquid in the Center After Baking?
If your quiche is still liquid after the suggested baking time, simply return it to the oven and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking — the edges should be firm, and the center should have a slight jiggle when done.
Can I Make This Quiche Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the diced ham and consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and texture. You can also increase the amount of spinach or incorporate other greens.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or use the microwave, taking care not to dry it out.
