This Easter Ham and Spinach Quiche is a tasty blend of savory ham, fresh spinach, and creamy eggs, all wrapped in a flaky crust. Perfect for a spring gathering!
I love serving this quiche for brunch. Just warm it up and watch everyone smile. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ham. Who doesn’t love a double win? 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pre-made pie crust: Using a store-bought pie crust saves time, but feel free to make your own if you’re up for it! You can also use phyllo dough for a lighter texture or a gluten-free crust if needed.
Eggs: I recommend using large eggs as they provide the best texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try egg whites or an egg substitute, though this will affect the overall taste and richness.
Whole milk or half-and-half: Half-and-half gives a creamier flavor, but you can use low-fat milk or a plant-based milk for a dairy-free version. Just make sure it’s unsweetened.
Ham: Leftover ham works well here. If you’re vegetarian, you could substitute with cooked mushrooms or diced tofu for protein. Also, smoked turkey is a nice alternative.
Fresh spinach: If you can’t find fresh spinach, frozen spinach works too, but make sure to thaw and drain it well. Using kale can add a different but enjoyable flavor.
Cheese: I love Swiss cheese for its melty texture. Cheddar or Gruyère are excellent choices too. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Ensure My Quiche Has a Perfectly Set Filling?
The key to a beautifully set filling is the cooking time and egg mixture consistency. Whisk the eggs well to combine them fully and create a uniform texture. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a rubbery quiche.
- Start with a pre-baked crust to avoid sogginess.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
- Letting the quiche cool before slicing helps it set better, preventing a runny filling.
How to Make Easter Ham and Spinach Quiche
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Quiche:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Swiss, cheddar, or Gruyère)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for added warmth)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious quiche takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 45-50 minutes to bake, plus a little cooling time before serving. So, set aside about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes total to enjoy a delightful homemade dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pre-made pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Make sure to press it into the edges so it fits nicely. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust a few times which helps prevent it from puffing up while baking. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes to give it a head start, then take it out and set aside.
2. Sautéing the Veggies:
In a skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter and heat it over medium heat. If you’d like, toss in the onions and garlic now and sauté them until they become translucent, which should take around 3-4 minutes. This also adds lovely flavor to your quiche!
3. Cooking the Spinach:
Next, add the chopped spinach to your skillet. Cook it until it wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once it’s nice and soft, remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool for a couple of minutes.
4. Mixing the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or half-and-half, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if you want that warm flavor). Make sure everything is well combined.
5. Combining Ingredients:
Add the cooled spinach mixture, diced ham, shredded cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the egg mixture. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and evenly mixed.
6. Filling the Crust:
Now it’s time to pour the delicious egg mixture evenly into the partially baked pie crust. Try to keep it balanced so it cooks evenly!
7. Baking the Quiche:
Place the quiche in your preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. To check, insert a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, you’re all set!
8. Cooling Time:
Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period will help it set a little more, making it easier to slice. Then, it’s ready to be served and enjoyed!
Enjoy your homemade Easter Ham and Spinach Quiche! It’s perfect for a family brunch or a holiday gathering.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to prevent the quiche from becoming soggy.
How Can I Store Leftover Quiche?
Store any leftover quiche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make This Quiche Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the quiche and assemble it a day in advance, then cover it and refrigerate. Just bake it on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
You can customize your quiche with other ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, or different cheeses. Just remember to keep the overall balance of wet and dry ingredients for the best texture!