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 pre-made pie crust; 3 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Gruyère or Cheddar); 4 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon thyme (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes

I absolutely love creating this Caramelized Onion and Spinach Quiche when I want to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home. The combination of sweet, caramelized onions and fresh spinach encased in a flaky crust is utterly irresistible. Every time I serve this dish, it brings smiles and compliments, making it a go-to recipe for brunch or a light dinner. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for those new to cooking. Trust me, you will want to savor every bite!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:06:35.052Z

When I first decided to make a quiche, I was hesitant about how it would turn out. However, after trying my hand at caramelizing onions, I discovered just how transformative their flavor can be. The slow cooking process releases their natural sweetness, which beautifully contrasts with the slight bitterness of fresh spinach. I also found that using a mix of cheeses enhances the richness of the quiche, making each slice wonderfully indulgent.

One little tip that I’ve learned is to pre-bake the crust briefly before adding the filling. This helps to prevent the crust from getting soggy and ensures a perfectly flaky base for your quiche. I promise that once you try making this recipe, it will become a staple for all your special gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly sweet caramelized onions paired with fresh spinach
Rich and creamy filling that envelopes the flaky crust
Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner
Easily customizable with your favorite cheeses or veg

      

The Art of Caramelizing Onions

Caramelizing onions is a delicate process that requires patience and attention. Start by slicing your onions thinly; this allows them to cook evenly and develop that rich, sweet flavor. Heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the onions, ensuring they're evenly coated. Stir occasionally, but not too frequently—allowing them to sit will help them caramelize better, developing their natural sugars and deep golden color. Expect this to take about 20-25 minutes, and watch for a glossy appearance as they soften.

To maximize flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt early in the process; this helps draw out moisture from the onions, enhancing the caramelization. If you notice the onions sticking or browning too fast, lower the heat. You can add a splash of water or a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar toward the end for depth and to deglaze the pan, which helps incorporate those flavorful brown bits that form at the bottom.

Crafting the Perfect Filling

The filling for your quiche is what truly transforms this dish from simple to sublime. Eggs and heavy cream create a rich and custardy texture; the ratio of 4 eggs to 1 cup of cream strikes a balance for firmness without being overly heavy. When whisking, ensure the eggs and cream are well combined, resulting in a smooth mixture that will set beautifully in the oven.

Incorporating cheese, like Gruyère or Cheddar, not only adds creaminess but also gives you a burst of flavor with each bite. Feel free to experiment—try feta for a tangy twist or mozzarella for a milder taste. The combined filling should resemble a thick, pourable custard. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk, while still keeping some richness in the quiche.

Serving and Storing Your Quiche

After baking, it's crucial to let your quiche cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the filling to set further, which makes for cleaner slices. If you’re planning to serve it at a gathering, you can keep it warm in a low oven at 200°F (93°C) for up to 30 minutes without losing quality. For a stunning presentation, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like dill or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top before serving.

If you're making this ahead of time, quiche freezes beautifully. After it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 25-30 minutes. I love to serve it with a light salad to balance the richness, making it ideal for brunch or an elegant light dinner.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a deliciously savory quiche.

For the Quiche

1 pre-made pie crust
3 large onions, thinly sliced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Gruyère or Cheddar)
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon thyme (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting the quiche.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly baked quiche.

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust in a tart pan and prick the bottom with a fork. Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.

Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.

Add Spinach

Once the onions are caramelized, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir in the cheese and the onion-spinach mixture.

Bake the Quiche

Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top. Cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious quiche fresh from the oven or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding cooked bacon or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

When making this quiche, the ingredients can be easily adjusted to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free pie crust or making your own crust using almond flour and coconut oil. If you're not fond of spinach, consider using kale or Swiss chard, which will deliver a similar texture but with a different taste profile.

Cheese swaps can also enhance the quiche; try goat cheese for a creamy tang or use a dairy-free cheese if you are looking for a vegan alternative. If you prefer a lighter dish, replace some of the eggs with egg whites and utilize low-fat cream. Each substitution will yield slightly different flavors and textures, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

Variations to Try

This Caramelized Onion and Spinach Quiche serves as a wonderful base for endless variations. For a meatier version, consider adding cooked bacon or ham into the filling for an extra layer of flavor. Sautéed mushrooms are another fantastic addition that complements the sweet onions beautifully, giving depth to the overall taste.

You can also explore seasonal ingredients; in the summer, fresh tomatoes and zucchini can bring brightness, while roasted root vegetables like sweet potatoes in the fall add a comforting touch. Adjusting the herb profile can also make a unique difference—fresh basil, oregano, or even dill can shift the flavor and keep things interesting.

Baking Tips

Achieving the perfect quiche texture relies heavily on proper baking techniques. Avoid overcooking by keeping a close eye on the quiche during the last minutes of baking. You want the center to be slightly jiggly when you remove it from the oven; it will continue to set as it cools. If you notice browning on the edges too early, loosely cover the quiche with foil to prevent over-browning.

Using a tart pan with a removable bottom can aid in a perfect presentation and make serving easier. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can brush the crust with beaten egg white before adding the filling; this creates a barrier against sogginess from the filling. Ultimately, this quiche should look golden on top and be firm but not dry, a clear sign of perfect baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the quiche?

Yes, you can freeze the baked quiche for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the quiche will be less rich.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover quiche can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I make this quiche dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free cheese substitute and substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative.