This loaded vegetable quiche combines fresh veggies, creamy Colby-Jack cheese, and a savory egg custard in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this quiche recipe brings together the best of garden vegetables with a rich, cheesy flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re a long-time quiche fan or new to making quiches, this easy veggie quiche recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, meatless meal.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 55 mins
Additional Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins
Servings: 8
Yield: 1 deep-dish quiche
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Vegetable Quiche
Loaded with nutrient-dense veggies and just the right blend of herbs, this vegetarian quiche recipe has all the classic quiche flavor with a lighter, vegetable-packed twist. From the creamy Colby-Jack cheese to the fresh taste of zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, this quiche is full of comforting flavors and textures. It’s easy to customize and can be served hot or cold, making it versatile enough for any time of day.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Loaded Vegetable Quiche
This vegetable quiche uses a blend of fresh, colorful veggies and simple ingredients to achieve a rich and satisfying flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 (9-inch) deep-dish pie crust: The base of your quiche, providing a flaky, buttery texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables to enhance their flavor.
- ½ cup sliced onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper: Adds a mild crunch and a pop of color.
- ½ cup mushrooms, sliced: Provides an earthy flavor that complements the other veggies.
- ½ cup chopped zucchini: Light and fresh, zucchini adds a hint of sweetness.
- 1 large tomato, sliced: Adds moisture and a vibrant, tangy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps bind the ingredients, especially the tomatoes.
- 2 teaspoons dried basil: Adds a slightly sweet, peppery flavor that complements the veggies.
- 3 large eggs, beaten: Essential for the custard-like texture of the quiche.
- ½ cup milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture.
- ½ teaspoon salt & ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
- 1 ½ cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese: Provides a creamy, slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with the veggies.
Step-by-Step Directions for Loaded Vegetable Quiche
This loaded veggie quiche is easy to make and requires just a few steps, resulting in a deliciously layered, veggie-packed quiche.
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients and Preheat Oven
Start by gathering all ingredients and preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step will ensure the crust is firm before adding the filling.
Step 2: Bake the Pie Crust
Place the deep-dish pie crust on a baking sheet and bake it for about 8 minutes, until the crust begins to set. This pre-baking step prevents the crust from getting soggy once the filling is added. Remove from the oven and set aside. Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, and zucchini. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Slices
Sprinkle the tomato slices with all-purpose flour and dried basil. Place them in the skillet over medium heat and cook for about 1 minute on each side. This step allows the tomatoes to soften and absorb the basil flavor. Remove and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will become the creamy base of the quiche, binding all the ingredients together.
Step 6: Layer the Quiche
To assemble the quiche, spread 1 cup of shredded Colby-Jack cheese on the bottom of the pie crust. Next, layer the sautéed vegetables over the cheese, creating an even layer. Place the tomato slices on top of the vegetable mixture, then pour the egg mixture evenly over the filling. Finally, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Colby-Jack cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake Until Set
Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden and bubbly. Let the quiche cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Loaded Vegetable Quiche
- Pre-bake the crust: This keeps the pie crust from becoming soggy.
- Add your favorite vegetables: Customize the quiche with other veggies like spinach, asparagus, or roasted red peppers.
- Let it cool slightly before serving: This helps the quiche set and makes slicing easier.
Why This Loaded Vegetable Quiche Is Perfect for Any Meal
This vegetarian quiche is versatile enough to serve at breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It’s also a great option for meal prep because it reheats beautifully, making it an ideal go-to meal for busy days. The combination of Colby-Jack cheese, basil-seasoned tomatoes, and sautéed vegetables makes each slice flavorful, rich, and satisfying.
FAQs
Can I freeze loaded vegetable quiche?
Yes, baked quiche freezes well! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven.
How long will quiche last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven.
Can I make a crustless version of this quiche?
Absolutely! Just skip the pie crust and pour the filling directly into a greased pie dish for a lower-carb option.
What other cheeses work well in this quiche?
Feel free to swap Colby-Jack with cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyere cheese for different flavors.
Can I add protein to this vegetarian quiche?
Yes, you can add cooked, crumbled bacon, sausage, or even smoked salmon if desired.
Conclusion
This Loaded Vegetable Quiche is the perfect blend of fresh vegetables, creamy Colby-Jack cheese, and savory herbs. Whether you’re making it for a special brunch or a weeknight dinner, this quiche is easy to make and sure to impress. Serve it warm with a side salad or as part of a brunch spread, and enjoy the delicious flavors of a classic veggie-loaded quiche!