This Easter Ham and Spinach Quiche is a tasty dish filled with eggs, savory ham, and fresh spinach, all baked in a golden crust. It’s perfect for brunch or a festive meal!
I love how easy it is to whip up this quiche using leftover ham. Plus, it looks so pretty on the table! You might want to make extra for those sneaky second helpings! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pre-made Pie Crust: Using a pre-made crust saves time! If you’re feeling adventurous, you could make your own crust with flour and butter. You can also try a gluten-free crust if you have dietary needs.
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are essential for the perfect custard texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use egg whites or a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water for each egg) as a substitute.
Half-and-Half or Milk: I prefer half-and-half for creaminess, but whole milk works just fine. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond or oat milk can replace these, although the texture may vary slightly.
Ham: Cooked ham gives a great flavor. You can switch it with cooked turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or skip meat altogether and add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for a vegetarian quiche.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully, but if you can’t find it, Gouda or Monterey Jack are good substitutes. Just make sure the cheese is shredded for even melting!
How Do I Sauté Spinach and Onions Perfectly?
Sautéing spinach and onions is an important step for flavor. First, heat your oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften. Then add garlic (if you’re using it) and cook for another minute to release its aroma.
- Add the chopped spinach next. Stir it for about 2-3 minutes until it wilts.
- Make sure not to overcook it, as it loses its vibrant color and nutrients.
Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before adding it to your quiche to avoid making the crust soggy!
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 half-and-half or whole milk
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- 1/4 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious quiche takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need about 35-45 minutes for baking. Don’t forget to let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. In total, you’ll spend roughly 55-70 minutes from start to serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pie Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, take your pre-made pie crust and roll it out gently. Fit it into a 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan, making sure to press it into the edges nicely. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust a few times to prevent bubbling while it bakes.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat your olive oil or butter over medium heat. If you’re using onion and garlic, add the diced onion first and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it softens. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Next, toss in the chopped spinach and stir it around for 2-3 minutes, just until it wilts. Remove the skillet from heat and set the mixture aside.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 eggs and whisk them together with the half-and-half (or milk), salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until everything is well combined. This will create your creamy filling!
4. Assemble the Quiche:
Spread the sautéed spinach mixture evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Then, sprinkle the diced ham over the spinach, making sure it’s nicely distributed. After that, add the shredded Swiss cheese on top of the ham and spinach. Finally, carefully pour the egg mixture over all the layers, making sure it fills the crust without overflowing.
5. Bake Your Quiche:
Place your assembled quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, just in case!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once your quiche is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set nicely. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful quiche at your holiday brunch or any light meal!
Enjoy making your Easter Ham and Spinach Quiche – it’s a savory treat that brings the flavors of the season to your table!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese gives a great flavor and melt, you can substitute it with Gruyère, Gouda, or even cheddar if you prefer a sharper taste. Just make sure it’s shredded for even melting!
What Can I Use Instead of Half-and-Half?
If you don’t have half-and-half on hand, whole milk works perfectly as an alternative. For a lighter option, you could use skim milk or even a dairy-free option like unsweetened almond or oat milk, although it may affect the creaminess slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Quiche?
To store leftovers, let the quiche cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave or back in the oven until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to suit your taste. Just make sure they are pre-cooked or sautéed to reduce moisture in the quiche!