Spinach and Beef Breakfast Quiche
Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals
I absolutely love making this Spinach and Beef Breakfast Quiche for my weekend brunches. It’s the perfect dish that combines creamy textures with savory beef and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a flaky crust. The key to a great quiche is the balance of fresh ingredients and fluffy eggs, and I usually experiment with different cheeses and spices. This recipe not only fills you up but also impresses anyone at the table—it's a total crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make!
When I first made this Spinach and Beef Breakfast Quiche, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together. The rich ground beef pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the spinach, and the crust just brings everything together. I discovered that sautéing the spinach before adding it to the quiche elevates its flavor significantly, making it even more delicious.
This dish works wonderfully for gatherings. I often prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning. The smell that fills the kitchen while it bakes is almost as delightful as the first bite. Try adding a hint of nutmeg for an unexpected warmth!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A delightful combination of spinach and savory beef
- Perfect for meal prep or a special brunch gathering
- Rich in protein and flavor, keeping you satisfied
Tips for Perfect Texture
Achieving the perfect quiche starts with the base. A pre-made pie crust can save time, but if you want to elevate the texture, consider making your own. The key is to blind bake it for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) before adding the filling. This prevents a soggy bottom and ensures a crispy, flaky crust that holds up to the creamy filling beautifully.
When mixing your egg and milk, aim for a smooth, frothy consistency. I recommend whisking vigorously for about a minute. This aeration helps create a fluffy texture once baked. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream, which will give the quiche a decadent, custard-like filling.
Ingredient Substitutions
Don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients! Ground beef is wonderfully savory, but turkey or even a meat alternative like lentils or chickpeas can provide a lighter option. If you’re looking to reduce fat, lean ground turkey is a great substitution, while still keeping that protein punch. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as turkey cooks faster and may not require as much browning.
For the cheese, while cheddar is a favorite for its sharpness, you can also use mozzarella for a milder flavor or even feta for a tangy twist. If you're in a pinch, cream cheese can also work; just mix it thoroughly to ensure no lumps remain. The choice of cheese can significantly impact the flavor profile, so choose according to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Make sure to check the freshness of your ingredients. Fresh spinach is key!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a perfect quiche every time.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Beef and Vegetables
In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and nutmeg. Stir in the shredded cheese.
Assemble the Quiche
Spread the beef and spinach mixture evenly in the pie crust. Pour the egg mixture over the beef and vegetables.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly browned on top.
Cool and Serve
Let the quiche cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious quiche with a side salad for a complete meal!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or cooked meats for variety.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This Spinach and Beef Breakfast Quiche is excellent for meal prep! You can assemble it the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking; this helps it cook evenly. Once baked, you can enjoy it fresh, but it also keeps well in the fridge for up to four days.
If you're looking to store leftovers, slice the quiche and keep individual portions in airtight containers. It freezes beautifully, too; simply wrap slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
While this quiche is delightful on its own, consider serving it alongside a simple arugula salad for a refreshing contrast. The peppery notes of arugula complement the savory quiche perfectly. A drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar brings it all together without overpowering the dish.
You can also serve your quiche with condiments like hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. For a brunch gathering, pair it with mimosas or a light fruit salad to add a touch of brightness. The versatility of this quiche makes it suitable for any occasion, from casual family breakfasts to elegant brunches.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this quiche in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling the night before, assemble it, and bake it in the morning.
→ What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can also use mozzarella, feta, or a blend for more flavor.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the baked quiche. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
→ Is there a gluten-free option?
You can use a gluten-free pie crust or make a crustless quiche by simply not using a crust.
Spinach and Beef Breakfast Quiche
I absolutely love making this Spinach and Beef Breakfast Quiche for my weekend brunches. It’s the perfect dish that combines creamy textures with savory beef and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a flaky crust. The key to a great quiche is the balance of fresh ingredients and fluffy eggs, and I usually experiment with different cheeses and spices. This recipe not only fills you up but also impresses anyone at the table—it's a total crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make!
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Homestyle Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and nutmeg. Stir in the shredded cheese.
Spread the beef and spinach mixture evenly in the pie crust. Pour the egg mixture over the beef and vegetables.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly browned on top.
Let the quiche cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or cooked meats for variety.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 18g