This Easter Ham and Spinach Quiche is a perfect blend of savory ham, fresh spinach, and creamy egg filling all packed in a flaky crust. It’s deliciously rich and colorful!
I love making this quiche for brunch—it’s like a little party on a plate! Plus, it’s so simple to whip up, and it tastes amazing warm or cold—who doesn’t enjoy leftovers?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: A premade crust saves time, but you can make your own for a fresher taste. If gluten-free is needed, try a store-bought gluten-free crust or even a cauliflower crust for a unique twist.
Eggs: I use large eggs for the perfect structure. If looking for a lighter version, use egg whites or a mix of whole eggs and egg whites. You could also use flax eggs for a vegan option!
Milk: Whole milk makes the quiche creamy, but half-and-half gives it an even richer texture. You could swap in almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free alternative—just make sure it’s unsweetened.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great, but frozen spinach works too—just be sure to thaw and drain it well. For a different flavor, you can use kale or Swiss chard in place of spinach.
Cheese: Swiss and Gruyère are both fantastic choices for their melting qualities. If you want something sharper, try cheddar or add a bit of feta for extra flavor.
How Do You Ensure Your Quiche Sets Perfectly?
Getting the quiche to set just right can be tricky. Follow these steps to achieve a well-cooked filling without a soggy bottom.
- Pre-cook the crust: This keeps it from getting too soggy when the egg mixture is added.
- Don’t overfill: Pour the egg mixture gradually until just below the crust’s edge, letting everything settle.
- Test for doneness: The quiche should still jiggle slightly in the center; carryover cooking will firm it up as it cools.
Cool it for a bit before slicing to help it hold its shape when served!
How to Make Easter Ham and Spinach Quiche
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 premade pie crust (9-inch) or homemade pie crust
For the Filling:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese or Gruyère cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 35-45 minutes for baking. Friends and family can enjoy this delicious quiche after letting it cool for 10-15 minutes. It’s perfect for brunches or special occasions like Easter!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A warm oven is key to getting that delicious golden-brown crust!
2. Prepare the Crust:
Roll out your premade or homemade pie crust and carefully fit it into a 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan. Use a fork to prick the crust lightly; this step helps prevent bubbling when baking.
3. Precook the Crust:
Cover the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the crust is slightly firm but not browned. Afterward, remove the weights and parchment and set the oven aside.
4. Cook Spinach and Onion:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Finally, add the spinach, cooking until it’s just wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Prepare Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or half-and-half), salt, pepper, and nutmeg until everything is well combined and smooth.
6. Assemble Quiche:
Evenly distribute the diced ham over the pre-baked crust. Following that, add the sautéed spinach and onion mixture on top. Spread the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over everything. Now, gently pour the egg mixture over the top, filling the crust to the brim without overflowing.
7. Bake:
Carefully place the quiche back into the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The edges should be set, while the center can still have a slight jiggle. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean, which means it’s done!
8. Cool and Serve:
Let the quiche cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing it. This cooling time helps everything set and makes it easier to cut. Serve warm or at room temperature—either way, it’s sure to be a hit!
This savory Easter ham and spinach quiche is a delightful combination of flavors that’s hearty enough for a family gathering. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss or Gruyère are traditional choices, you can easily substitute with cheddar, feta, or mozzarella based on your taste preferences.
Can I Make This Quiche Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham and consider adding extra vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, for a wholesome vegetarian option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Quiche?
Yes, you can freeze the quiche! Make sure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should be good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
