Life with two active kids and a bustling food blog means I often search for meals that are both nourishing and unbelievably easy. There are those mornings, or even hectic weeknights, when I crave something wholesome, flavorful, and quick. That’s precisely how my much-loved Crustless Veggie Quiche came to be a staple in our home.
I remember one busy Saturday morning; the fridge held an assortment of colorful vegetables, and I needed a hearty breakfast fast. A traditional quiche crust felt too time-consuming. So, I experimented, tossing everything into a pie dish, and what emerged from the oven was a golden, fluffy, and utterly delicious creation.
My kids devoured it, asking for seconds! This Crustless Veggie Quiche truly saves the day. It is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
It packs so much flavor and goodness into every bite. Plus, it is incredibly versatile. You can literally use any veggies you have on hand.
It has become a go-to recipe for potlucks and family gatherings, always receiving rave reviews. Everyone adores this simple yet elegant Crustless Veggie Quiche. Get ready to add it to your regular rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Crustless Veggie Quiche Recipe
This Crustless Veggie Quiche offers so many fantastic reasons to make it your next favorite meal. First and foremost, it is incredibly easy. You skip the fussy crust, saving valuable time and effort in the kitchen.
Second, it is packed with vibrant vegetables. This means you are fueling your body with essential nutrients and delicious flavors. Every forkful of this delightful Crustless Veggie Quiche provides wholesome goodness.
Third, it is remarkably versatile. You can customize the vegetables and cheeses to suit your taste or whatever you have available. This adaptability makes it perfect for using up leftover produce.
Fourth, it is a fantastic make-ahead option. Prepare this Crustless Veggie Quiche on Sunday, and enjoy healthy breakfasts or lunches all week long. It reheats beautifully, making meal prep a breeze.
Fifth, this recipe is naturally gluten-free due to the lack of a crust, making it a wonderful choice for those with dietary restrictions. Finally, it is utterly delicious. The creamy egg custard, combined with tender-crisp vegetables and savory cheese, creates a truly comforting and satisfying dish.
This Crustless Veggie Quiche is perfect for busy families, health-conscious eaters, and anyone who loves a simple, flavorful meal. You will find yourself making this delicious Crustless Veggie Quiche again and again. It truly brings joy to the kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this amazing Crustless Veggie Quiche is simple. I always recommend using fresh, high-quality produce for the best flavor. Here is what you will need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onion (about 1 medium)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color), a mix is lovely
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded zucchini (optional, squeeze out excess water)
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but it adds a lovely warmth)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, or a cheddar-jack blend
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional)
Substitutions & Variations
One of the best things about this Crustless Veggie Quiche is its incredible adaptability! Feel free to play around with the ingredients to suit your preferences or whatever you have on hand. Making a Crustless Veggie Quiche should be fun and flexible. Here are some fantastic ideas to get you started:
- Veggies Galore:
- Broccoli & Cauliflower: Steam or sauté small florets until tender-crisp before adding to the mix.
- Asparagus: Chop into 1-inch pieces and sauté briefly.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add a tablespoon or two of chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) for a burst of concentrated flavor.
- Artichoke Hearts: Roughly chop canned or jarred artichoke hearts (drained) for a delicious addition.
- Sweet Potatoes: Dice and roast small cubes until tender before incorporating. This adds a lovely sweetness to the Crustless Veggie Quiche.
- Kale: Use kale instead of spinach. Ensure you massage it with a little oil and salt first to tenderize it.
- Cheese Please:
- Swiss Cheese: Offers a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbles beautifully and adds a salty, tangy kick.
- Goat Cheese: Creamy and tangy, it pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables.
- Mozzarella: Creates a lovely stretchy texture.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a high-quality dairy-free shredded cheese substitute for a plant-based twist on this Crustless Veggie Quiche.
- Herb Heaven:
- Fresh Herbs: Swap dried oregano for 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped chives, parsley, or basil. Add them after baking for maximum freshness.
- Dill: Especially good with spinach, feta, and mushrooms.
- Protein Boost:
- Cooked Chicken or Turkey: Dice and add about 1/2 cup of cooked, shredded chicken or turkey for extra protein. This truly transforms a simple Crustless Veggie Quiche into a hearty meal.
- Beans: A quarter cup of cooked black beans or chickpeas can add texture and protein.
- Spice It Up:
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds a subtle heat.
- Smoked Paprika: For a smoky depth of flavor.
- Make it Creamier:
- Heavy Cream: Replace half of the milk with heavy cream for a richer, more luxurious texture.
Do not be afraid to get creative! The beauty of this Crustless Veggie Quiche lies in its flexibility. Every variation brings a new and exciting flavor profile to your table. You will discover so many ways to enjoy this delicious Crustless Veggie Quiche.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this incredible Crustless Veggie Quiche is straightforward. Follow these simple steps, and you will have a delicious meal in no time:
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or an 8×8 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
- Add Garlic & Mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release their moisture and lightly brown.
- Cook Bell Peppers & Spinach: Add the chopped bell peppers and zucchini (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the peppers are tender-crisp. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook just until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Whisk Eggs & Dairy: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, dried oregano (or Italian seasoning), and nutmeg. Whisk thoroughly until everything is well combined and slightly frothy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetable mixture and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Stir gently to distribute the vegetables and cheese evenly throughout the custard.
- Pour into Dish: Pour the entire mixture into your prepared pie dish or baking dish. Gently tap the dish on the counter a few times to settle the mixture and remove any large air bubbles.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the Crustless Veggie Quiche is set in the center and lightly golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the Crustless Veggie Quiche from the oven. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Let it cool for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the quiche to set further and makes for cleaner slices.
Enjoy your homemade, wholesome Crustless Veggie Quiche! It is truly a dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving a perfect Crustless Veggie Quiche every time involves a few simple tricks. These tips will elevate your quiche from good to absolutely outstanding:
- Sauté Veggies Thoroughly: Do not rush the sautéing process. Cooking your vegetables until they are tender and slightly caramelized enhances their flavor and prevents them from releasing too much water into your quiche, which can make it watery. Especially with mushrooms, cook them until their liquid evaporates. This step is crucial for a flavorful Crustless Veggie Quiche.
- Drain Excess Moisture: If using watery vegetables like zucchini, make sure to squeeze out any excess liquid after shredding or chopping. This prevents a soggy quiche. Similarly, ensure spinach is well-drained after wilting.
- Room Temperature Eggs: While not strictly necessary, using room temperature eggs helps them combine more smoothly with the milk, creating a more uniform and fluffier custard.
- Do Not Over-Whisk: Whisk the eggs and milk until just combined and slightly frothy. Over-whisking can incorporate too much air, leading to a texture that is less custardy.
- Even Distribution of Fillings: When combining the cooked vegetables and cheese with the egg mixture, stir gently but thoroughly. You want an even distribution in every slice of your Crustless Veggie Quiche.
- Do Not Overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry, rubbery quiche. Start checking for doneness at the lower end of the baking time. The center should be set, and a knife inserted should come out clean. The top will be golden brown.
- Rest Before Slicing: Letting your Crustless Veggie Quiche rest for 5-10 minutes after baking allows the internal structure to set. This results in cleaner, more defined slices and prevents it from falling apart.
- Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar is a classic, experiment with other cheeses like Swiss, Gruyère, feta, or a blend. Different cheeses offer unique flavor profiles to your Crustless Veggie Quiche.
- Use Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle some fresh chopped chives, parsley, or dill over the finished quiche just before serving.
- Cover if Browning Too Quickly: If the top of your Crustless Veggie Quiche starts to brown too much before the center is set, loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Following these tips will ensure your Crustless Veggie Quiche is always a resounding success. You will impress everyone with this perfectly cooked and flavorful dish!
Storage & Reheating Tips
This Crustless Veggie Quiche makes fantastic leftovers, which is a huge win for meal prep! Knowing how to properly store and reheat it ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness for days to come.
Storage:
- Cool Completely: Always allow your Crustless Veggie Quiche to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Storing it warm can create condensation, leading to a soggy texture.
- Refrigerator: Once cooled, cover the quiche tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer individual slices to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer (Best Method): This Crustless Veggie Quiche freezes beautifully!
- Whole Quiche: Once completely cooled, wrap the entire quiche (still in its pie dish or transferred to a freezer-safe dish) tightly with a layer of plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil. Label with the date. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Individual Slices: For easy grab-and-go meals, cut the cooled quiche into individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This is perfect for portion control and quick thawing.
Reheating:
- From the Refrigerator:
- Oven: For best results, reheat slices or the whole quiche in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Covering it loosely with foil helps prevent drying out.
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until hot. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the eggs rubbery.
- From the Freezer:
- Whole Quiche: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated. Again, cover with foil if needed.
- Individual Slices: You can reheat frozen slices directly. Place on a baking sheet and reheat in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 2-4 minutes, checking frequently.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can always have a delicious, ready-to-eat Crustless Veggie Quiche available whenever hunger strikes. It truly is the gift that keeps on giving!
What to Serve With This Recipe
This versatile Crustless Veggie Quiche pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Here are some of my favorite accompaniments:
- Fresh Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette perfectly complements the richness of the quiche. The crisp, fresh greens add a refreshing contrast to the creamy Crustless Veggie Quiche.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful bowl of fresh berries, melon, grapes, and citrus segments offers a sweet and bright counterpoint. This is especially lovely for breakfast or brunch.
- Roasted Potatoes or Hash Browns: For a heartier breakfast or brunch, serve your Crustless Veggie Quiche alongside crispy roasted potatoes, sweet potato hash, or classic hash browns.
- Toasted Bread or Muffins: A slice of artisan toast, a warm croissant, or a savory muffin can be a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover deliciousness.
- Soup: For a light lunch or dinner, pair a slice of this wholesome Crustless Veggie Quiche with a comforting bowl of tomato soup, lentil soup, or a creamy vegetable bisque.
- Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices add a creamy texture and healthy fats, complementing the flavors of the quiche beautifully. A sprinkle of Everything Bagel seasoning on top is fantastic.
- Yogurt Parfait: For breakfast, a yogurt parfait with granola and fruit creates a balanced and delicious meal alongside your Crustless Veggie Quiche.
- Hot Sauce or Salsa: If you enjoy a little kick, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a dollop of fresh salsa can elevate the flavors of this amazing Crustless Veggie Quiche.
No matter what you choose, this Crustless Veggie Quiche remains the star of the show, offering a satisfying and flavorful experience with every bite. Experiment with these suggestions to find your perfect pairing!
FAQs
Is Crustless Veggie Quiche healthy?
Absolutely! This Crustless Veggie Quiche is inherently healthy. It skips the carb-heavy crust, focusing on protein-rich eggs and a generous amount of vegetables.
This makes it a great low-carb, nutrient-dense option. The vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while the eggs deliver high-quality protein. You are creating a wholesome and balanced meal with every slice of this Crustless Veggie Quiche. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet or reduce their carbohydrate intake.
Can I prepare the Crustless Veggie Quiche mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you certainly can! You can prepare the vegetable mixture (sautéing the onions, garlic, mushrooms, peppers, and spinach) a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you are ready to bake your Crustless Veggie Quiche, simply whisk the eggs and milk, stir in the prepped vegetables and cheese, then pour and bake.
I do not recommend mixing the eggs and milk with the vegetables too far in advance, as the salt can start to draw water out of the vegetables, potentially affecting the quiche’s texture. For the freshest and best results, combine the egg mixture and vegetables just before baking this delightful Crustless Veggie Quiche.
Why is my Crustless Veggie Quiche watery?
A watery quiche usually stems from excess moisture in the vegetables. Several factors can contribute to this. First, make sure you thoroughly sauté watery vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini until their liquid evaporates.
For zucchini, always squeeze out excess water after shredding. Second, ensure your spinach is completely wilted and any excess liquid drained before adding it to the mixture. Third, using too much milk or adding overly wet ingredients can also dilute the egg custard. Following the recipe proportions carefully and properly prepping your vegetables will help you achieve a perfectly set and delicious Crustless Veggie Quiche every time.
What kind of dish should I use for a Crustless Veggie Quiche?
A standard 9-inch pie dish is ideal for this Crustless Veggie Quiche recipe. Its depth and size are perfect for the volume of the egg and vegetable mixture. You can also use an 8×8 inch square baking dish.
Make sure whatever dish you choose is oven-safe and lightly greased to prevent sticking. A glass or ceramic dish works wonderfully. The important thing is to ensure your chosen dish has enough capacity for all the delicious ingredients in this hearty Crustless Veggie Quiche. This allows the quiche to cook evenly and achieve that beautiful golden-brown top.
Can I add meat to this Crustless Veggie Quiche?
Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on a delicious Crustless Veggie Quiche, you can easily add cooked, diced meat for extra protein and flavor. Good options include cooked chicken sausage, turkey bacon, or diced cooked chicken.
Make sure any meat you add is fully cooked before incorporating it into the egg mixture. This way, your Crustless Veggie Quiche becomes a truly satisfying and customizable meal for any occasion. Simply stir in about 1/2 to 1 cup of your preferred cooked meat along with the sautéed vegetables. Enjoy your personalized Crustless Veggie Quiche!
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious Crustless Veggie Quiche (based on 6 servings). Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 17 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 230 mg |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
Crustless Veggie Quiche
- Total Time: 65 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and versatile Crustless Veggie Quiche that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, packing flavor and nutrition into every bite.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
1 cup Chopped Onio
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 cup Sliced Mushrooms
1 cup Chopped Bell Peppers
1 cup Fresh Spinach, roughly chopped
1/2 cup Shredded Zucchini
6 Large Eggs
1/2 cup Milk
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
1/4 teaspoon Dried Oregano
1/8 teaspoon Nutmeg
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add chopped onion, and sauté until translucent
- Stir in minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until mushrooms release moisture
- Add chopped bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet, cooking until tender-crisp, then stir in fresh spinach until wilted
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, oregano, and nutmeg until well combined
- Add the sautéed vegetable mix and cheddar cheese to the egg mixture, stirring gently
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and bake for 35-45 minutes until set and golde
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving
Notes
You can customize the vegetables and cheeses to suit your taste.
This quiche can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 230 mg
This Crustless Veggie Quiche is not just easy to prepare but also a delight for the taste buds. If you’re short on time and looking for another quick yet nutritious dish, check out our guide on quick breakfast ideas.
Crustless Veggie Quiche is a flavorful dish that merges convenience with nutrition, making it ideal for busy families. To learn more about different types of quiche, you can visit this resource.