Easy 9x13 Quiche Recipe for Breakfast or Brunch

Quiche is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that combines a rich, creamy filling with a flaky crust, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This 9×13-inch quiche recipe is straightforward to make, feeds a family or a gathering, and allows for endless customization with your favorite ingredients. Its balanced flavors and satisfying texture make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 prepared pie crust (store-bought or homemade) – 1 (9-inch) crust
8 large eggs
2 cups heavy cream or whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a blend)
1 cup cooked ham, bacon, or sausage, chopped (optional)
1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
½ cup chopped onions or leeks
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Additional herbs or spices (e.g., thyme, nutmeg) – to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the oven rack in the middle position.
Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9×13-inch baking dish, pressing it into the corners and trimming any excess edges. Prick the bottom with a fork a few times to prevent bubbling.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions or leeks and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. If using greens like spinach or kale, add them to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or milk), salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you prefer. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Add the shredded cheese, cooked meats (if using), sautéed vegetables, and chopped herbs to the egg mixture. Mix gently to evenly distribute all ingredients.
Pour the filling mixture into the prepared pie crust in the baking dish. Spread evenly with a spatula if needed.

Place the dish on the middle rack and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the quiche is puffed and golden around the edges, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.

Tips

Use a pre-made pie crust for convenience, or make your own for a flakier, homemade crust.

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but keep in mind that the custard may be less rich.
To prevent a soggy crust, blind-bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling, especially if using a homemade crust.
Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients—try mushrooms, bell peppers, or different cheeses for variety.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your quiche warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a fresh green salad or fruit for a complete meal. It pairs well with a light vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables. For brunch, consider adding a fresh fruit platter or a basket of crusty bread to round out the spread.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Try these popular variations:

Vegetarian Quiche: Skip the meat and load up with extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted peppers.

Seafood Quiche: Incorporate cooked shrimp, smoked salmon, or crab meat for a seafood twist.
Different Cheeses: Use feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese for a more distinct flavor profile.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust or a crustless quiche for a lower-carb option.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, checking to ensure it is heated evenly. For best results, reheat in short intervals to prevent overcooking and drying out the filling. You can also reheat the entire quiche in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes if you prefer a crispy crust and evenly warmed filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this quiche ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the quiche a day in advance. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if necessary.

Can I freeze leftover quiche?

Absolutely. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or microwave until heated through.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, feta, or Monterey Jack. Keep in mind that some cheeses have stronger flavors or different melting properties, so choose according to your taste and the texture you desire.

Is it necessary to blind-bake the crust?

If using a store-bought crust, blind-baking is optional but recommended if you want a crisper bottom. For homemade crusts or if you prefer a softer crust, you can skip this step. Just ensure your crust is properly baked during the overall baking process.

How do I prevent the filling from curdling?

To prevent curdling, whisk the eggs and cream thoroughly until smooth, and do not overmix. Also, bake the quiche at the recommended temperature and avoid opening the oven door during the first 30 minutes of baking to ensure even cooking.

}

Easy 9×13 Quiche Recipe for Breakfast or Brunch