A classic Ham, Cheddar, and Broccoli Quiche is the perfect dish for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. This savory pie combines smoky ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender broccoli in a rich and creamy egg custard, all nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature, making it an excellent choice for entertaining or meal prep. Each bite is a delightful balance of textures and flavors that’s as comforting as it is satisfying.
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
- For the filling:
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the crust:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form it into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the dish, trim the edges, and crimp if desired. Prick the bottom with a fork and line with parchment paper. Fill with pie weights or dried beans and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare the filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in the ham, broccoli, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Assemble and bake:
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the partially baked crust. Pour the filling mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the quiche for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Allow the quiche to cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve warm with a fresh green salad or a bowl of fruit for a well-rounded meal. This quiche also stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven. Enjoy!
