Caramelized Onion and Spinach Quiche

Name: Caramelized Onion and Spinach Quiche
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4-5 tablespoons ice water; 2 medium onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 4 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Gruyère or cheddar); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking

I absolutely adore making quiche for brunch, especially when it’s filled with the rich flavors of caramelized onions and bright spinach. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it's also incredibly versatile, allowing me to use whatever fresh ingredients I have on hand. The buttery crust holds a creamy filling that comes together beautifully in the oven. Whether I’m serving it to family or enjoying it as a quick lunch, this quiche never fails to impress. Let's dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:22:31.997Z

When I first experimented with this quiche, I was stunned by how the sweetness of the caramelized onions melded perfectly with the earthy spinach. I made it for guests, and they couldn’t get enough! The blend of flavors made it unforgettable, and the golden, flaky crust was just the icing on the cake. One little trick I learned is to let the onions cook slowly; it makes a world of difference in their sweetness.

Another aspect I found intriguing was how versatile quiches are. You can easily swap out spinach for other greens or add in your favorite cheese. My family loves Gruyère, but feel free to experiment! It's a dish that can match your mood and highlight fresh produce, making it a staple for any brunch or lunch gathering.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich caramelized flavor that balances beautifully with spinach
Creamy filling wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust
Perfect for brunch or as a meal prep option

      

Perfecting the Crust

The crust is the foundation of your quiche, and getting it right is crucial for achieving that perfect balance between flaky and sturdy. Make sure your butter is chilled, as this helps create that desirable texture. When mixing the flour and butter, aim for a coarse crumb consistency—this indicates that the butter is well-distributed without overworking the dough. If your crust seems too crumbly, you can add an extra tablespoon of ice water, but be careful not to make it too moist.

After rolling out the dough, gently place it into the pie dish, allowing it to relax without stretching. This prevents shrinkage during baking. If you have spare dough, consider making a decorative edge or using it to patch any cracks that form while fitting the crust. For a deeper flavor, try adding a teaspoon of dried herbs or spices like thyme to the flour mixture for an aromatic twist.

Mastering the Filling

The filling is where the real magic happens in this quiche. The caramelized onions not only provide sweetness but also depth, complementing the bright flavor of the spinach. It's essential to cook the onions low and slow—medium heat for about 15-20 minutes—until they turn a rich golden brown. If you find them browning too quickly, you can lower the heat slightly; patience pays off for this step.

When combining the eggs, cream, and cheese, whisk them thoroughly until smooth to ensure an even distribution of flavors. The heavy cream contributes to the quiche's creamy texture, but you can substitute half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative if you prefer a lighter option. Simply keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary with substitutions, so choose options that suit your dietary needs while ensuring a balanced taste.

Baking and Serving Tips

When you pour the filling into the prepared crust, be cautious not to overfill it—leaving a small gap at the top prevents spills as the quiche cooks and expands. Bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until set; the center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid. Keep an eye on the edges of the crust; if they begin to darken too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning while the filling finishes properly.

Once the quiche is done, it's crucial to let it cool for at least 10 minutes. This resting time allows the filling to firm up, making slicing easier and preventing a soupy mess. I love serving this quiche warm with a light salad on the side, but it also pairs well with a dollop of crème fraîche or salsa for added flavor. For make-ahead options, the quiche can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious quiche:

For the crust

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 teaspoon salt
4-5 tablespoons ice water

For the filling

2 medium onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Gruyère or cheddar)
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the quiche:

Prepare the crust

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.

Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Caramelize the onions

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.

Prepare the filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream. Stir in cheese, chopped spinach, and the caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the quiche

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and place it in a pie dish. Pour the filling into the crust.

Bake

Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

Cool and serve

Allow the quiche to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm or cold!

Quiche can be served immediately or stored in the refrigerator for later.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding herbs like thyme or dill to the egg mixture. Also, using a mix of cheeses can enhance the flavor complexity.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to tailor this quiche to your taste or dietary preferences, there are several ingredient swaps you can make. For instance, instead of spinach, you can use kale or Swiss chard, which are both nutritious options. Just be sure to chop them finely and sauté them slightly before adding to the filling to help soften their texture. Additionally, if you're not a fan of Gruyère, cheese varieties like feta or goat cheese can add a delightful tanginess.

In terms of dairy, if you're seeking a lighter quiche, consider using ricotta cheese blended with some milk to replace the cream. Alternatively, silken tofu offers a great vegan option that mimics the creaminess of the filling without compromising on flavor. Just remember to blend it thoroughly until smooth before mixing it into the eggs.

Storage and Reheating

Storing your quiche properly can extend its shelf life and preserve its delightful flavors. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and then placed in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen quiche, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This method ensures the crust retains its flakiness while the filling warms up evenly. For a quick fix, the microwave is also an option; just be sure to heat it in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought crust?

Yes, if you're short on time, a store-bought pie crust works perfectly in this recipe.

→ How long does the quiche last in the fridge?

The quiche can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the quiche?

Yes, you can freeze quiche for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well.

→ What can I serve with quiche?

Quiche pairs well with a fresh salad, fruits, or light soups.