Crustless Broccoli Cheddar Quiche: Easy Low-Carb Breakfast Recipe

This crustless Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is the ultimate solution for those busy mornings when you want a gourmet breakfast without the extra effort of a pastry crust.

By removing the traditional pie shell, we’ve created a naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly dish that highlights the savory harmony of sharp cheddar cheese and tender broccoli florets.

Whether you are hosting a weekend brunch or prepping your meals for the week, this quiche offers a velvety texture and a rich, cheesy flavor that everyone at the table will love.

Why This Crustless Broccoli Cheddar Quiche Works

Read this before you cook to ensure the best results! This recipe works because it relies on a specific ratio of eggs to dairy, ensuring a custardy finish that isn't rubbery. By skipping the crust, you save time and significant calories, making it a high-protein option that fits into many dietary lifestyles.

The secret to success lies in ensuring your broccoli is bite-sized and well-drained, which prevents the quiche from becoming watery. It’s a versatile "blank canvas" recipe that tastes just as good cold as it does warm from the oven.

Ingredients List

• 6 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into small bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (freshly grated is best)
• ¼ cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
   
   
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Sauté the diced onions for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and broccoli florets. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
   
   
3. Whisk the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 eggs, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and slightly frothy.
   
   
4. Layer the Ingredients: Spread the sautéed broccoli and onion mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the vegetables.
   
   
5. Pour and Top: Pour the egg mixture slowly over the broccoli and cheese. Use a fork to gently move the ingredients around so the egg fills all the gaps. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top.
   
   
6. Bake: Place the dish in the center of the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The quiche is done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still has a very slight jiggle.
   
   
7. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the quiche rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the custard to firm up for clean, beautiful slices.
   
   

Tips & Variations

• Prevent Sogginess: If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out every drop of excess moisture with a paper towel before adding it to the dish.
• Cheese Swaps: While cheddar is classic, you can swap it for Gruyère for a nuttier flavor or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
• Add Protein: Feel free to stir in some cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham for an even heartier meal.
• Veggie Boost: Add sliced mushrooms or sautéed spinach along with the broccoli for extra nutrients.
  
  

Serving Suggestions

This crustless Broccoli Cheddar Quiche pairs beautifully with a light arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese.

For a full brunch spread, serve it alongside fresh seasonal fruit or roasted breakfast potatoes. If you’re keeping things low-carb, a few slices of avocado on top add a lovely creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat individual slices in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, or enjoy it cold.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely. By omitting the flour-based crust, this quiche is very low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can use whole milk, but the texture will be less creamy and slightly more "eggy." For the best custard-like consistency, heavy cream or half-and-half is recommended.

Conclusion

Mastering the crustless Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is a game-changer for any home cook. It’s simple, elegant, and incredibly satisfying. Give this recipe a try this weekend and see how easy it is to ditch the crust without sacrificing any of the flavor! If you enjoyed this recipe, please leave a comment below and tell us how yours turned out.

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