Introduction: When Breakfast Meets Brunch and Beyond
Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch, a cozy breakfast-for-dinner, or simply meal-prepping something hearty for the week, broccoli bacon cheddar quiche deserves a spot at your table. It’s creamy, cheesy, smoky, and packed with tender broccoli—wrapped up in a buttery, flaky crust that’s downright irresistible.
And here’s the best part: it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it warm, cold, or room temperature. Pair it with a simple salad, a bowl of fruit, or just a hot mug of coffee. You really can’t go wrong.
Why You’ll Love This Quiche
This isn’t your average scrambled-eggs-on-toast situation. This is breakfast royalty—rich, savory, and satisfying in all the right ways. Here’s what makes this quiche a standout:
- All-in-one meal – Veggies, protein, dairy, and carbs in one slice.
- Make-ahead friendly – Bake once, eat for days.
- Customizable – Swap out ingredients based on what’s in your fridge.
- Crowd-pleasing – Perfect for brunch parties, potlucks, or feeding picky eaters.
- Great hot or cold – You can even eat it on the go.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a rundown of what goes into this magical combination:
For the Crust:
- 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
For the Filling:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked broccoli florets (roughly chopped)
- ½ cup cooked bacon (chopped, about 4–5 slices)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg for warmth
Step-by-Step: Making the Perfect Quiche
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a homemade crust, roll it out and press into a 9-inch pie plate. Crimp the edges as desired.
For store-bought crusts, just unroll and fit into your pan.
2. Blind Bake the Crust
To avoid a soggy bottom, blind bake your crust first.
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, remove the weights and parchment, and bake another 5 minutes until lightly golden.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
🧁 This keeps your crust crisp and flaky even under the creamy filling.
3. Cook the Bacon and Broccoli
- Cook your bacon in a skillet until crispy, then drain on paper towels.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli for 2–3 minutes until just tender, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Let both cool before adding to the egg mixture.
4. Make the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir in shredded cheddar.
5. Assemble the Quiche
Sprinkle the bacon and broccoli evenly over the pre-baked crust. Pour the egg mixture on top, spreading out the cheese if it clumps.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and a knife inserted comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden and puffed.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Table: Quick Assembly Recap
| Step | Task |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven and prep crust |
| 2 | Blind bake crust |
| 3 | Cook bacon and broccoli |
| 4 | Mix eggs, milk, and cheese |
| 5 | Fill crust and bake |
Why Broccoli, Bacon, and Cheddar Work So Well Together
This trio hits all the notes:
- Broccoli brings earthiness and nutrition.
- Bacon adds salty, crispy richness.
- Cheddar melts beautifully and adds sharp, tangy flavor.
Each ingredient complements the others without overpowering—creating a balanced, satisfying bite every time.
Flavor Variations to Try
Want to mix it up? Here are some fun substitutions and add-ins:
Veggie Options:
- Spinach (sautéed)
- Asparagus (chopped)
- Mushrooms (cooked to reduce moisture)
Cheese Options:
- Swiss or Gruyère for nutty flavor
- Monterey Jack for a creamier melt
- Feta for a salty, tangy punch
Meat Options:
- Ham instead of bacon
- Sausage crumbles
- No meat at all—go full veggie!
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Slice – based on 8 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Carbs | 14g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | ~390mg |
Note: These are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
What to Serve with Quiche
This dish is filling on its own, but a side or two can turn it into a full spread.
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mixed greens with vinaigrette | Light and crisp contrast |
| Fresh fruit salad | Adds sweetness and color |
| Roasted potatoes | For a hearty brunch |
| Scones or muffins | Balance the savory with some baked goodness |
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Prep Ahead:
- Blind bake the crust and cook bacon and broccoli a day in advance.
- Mix egg filling and store in the fridge (separately from crust) overnight.
- Bake fresh the next morning.
Store:
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freeze:
- Slice and wrap individual pieces tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
🧊 Frozen quiche is your new secret weapon for lazy mornings.
Serving Ideas for Any Time of Day
| Meal Time | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | Add a cup of coffee and sliced fruit |
| Brunch | Serve with mimosas and mixed greens |
| Lunch | Pair with soup or a grain salad |
| Dinner | Add a side of roasted veggies and a glass of wine |
| Midnight Snack | Yes, cold quiche is totally a thing |
Reader Reviews
“This is my go-to quiche recipe. It’s foolproof and everyone loves it.”
— Rachel from Ohio
“Made it for Easter brunch and it disappeared in minutes. Even the kids ate broccoli!”
— Jeff, Minnesota
“I prep two and freeze one. It’s the best lunch hack ever.”
— Kimberly, California
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw and drain thoroughly before adding to prevent excess moisture.
Can I skip blind baking the crust?
It’s not essential, but skipping it can result in a soggy crust. For best texture, blind bake!
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese. The texture will differ slightly, but still tasty.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Bake in two 9-inch pie pans or use a large baking dish for a casserole-style quiche.
Final Thoughts: The Brunch Staple That Never Gets Old
Broccoli bacon cheddar quiche is the kind of recipe that does it all—brunch centerpiece, weekday breakfast, even an easy dinner with wine and salad. It’s comforting, customizable, and crowd-pleasing.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or your whole brunch crew, this quiche delivers. It’s not just a dish—it’s a whole mood.
So grab your whisk, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a slice of savory heaven.