Caramelized Onion and Spinach Quiche

Name: Caramelized Onion and Spinach Quiche
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pre-baked pie crust; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 3 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère or cheddar); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter

Highlighted under: Comfort Bowl Recipes

I love making this Caramelized Onion and Spinach Quiche because it combines rich flavors with a light, fluffy texture. The process of slowly caramelizing the onions deepens their sweetness, creating a perfect counterpoint to the earthiness of the spinach. When I take a slice of this quiche, it's a taste of comfort that feels both indulgent and wholesome. This recipe is not just a perfect brunch option; it also makes for an elegant dinner dish that impresses at any gathering.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:06:34.485Z

When I first made this quiche, I was blown away by how the caramelized onions transformed the overall flavor. It was a game-changer! The key to perfectly caramelized onions is to cook them low and slow, allowing their natural sugars to develop. I recommend using a cast-iron skillet; it retains heat beautifully and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown color.

Another aspect I love about this recipe is how you can easily adapt it by adding different vegetables or even types of cheese. The options are endless! Once, I tried adding feta, and it brought a delightful tanginess that complemented the sweetness of the onions. Every bite is a delicious memory!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Caramelized onions add a rich sweetness with deep flavor.
Creamy filling with fresh spinach creates a perfect balance.
Easy to make ahead and perfect for entertaining.

      

The Importance of Properly Caramelizing Onions

Caramelizing onions is a central technique in this quiche that transforms their sharpness into a luscious sweetness. To achieve the perfect caramelization, use a heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure even heat distribution. Cooking over medium-low heat is crucial; too high of a temperature will burn the onions instead of slowly browning them. Stirring occasionally is also important to prevent sticking and to promote uniform browning. You're looking for a final texture that is soft and glossy, resembling a deep amber color after about 30 minutes of cooking.

The choice of pan matters as well. A cast-iron skillet retains heat effectively, making it easier to achieve that beautiful golden color. Keep an eye on hydration levels; if the onions start to dry out, add a teaspoon of water to loosen any bits stuck to the pan. This not only assists in the caramelization process but also adds extra flavor to the final dish.

Choosing and Preparing Spinach

For this quiche, fresh spinach is key for both flavor and nutrition. When selecting spinach, look for vibrant green leaves without any yellow spots or wilting, which indicates freshness. Before incorporating it into the filling, wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any grit. Sautéing the chopped spinach for just a couple of minutes in the same skillet as the onions can enhance its flavor while reducing excess moisture, preventing the quiche from becoming soggy.

If fresh spinach is unavailable, you can substitute it with frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to remove excess water. This small step is crucial for keeping the quiche's texture intact. You can also experiment with different greens like kale or Swiss chard for a unique twist, adding depth and nutritional value to your dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Quiche

This Caramelized Onion and Spinach Quiche is incredibly versatile for meal prep. To store, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and they will keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to make it ahead of time, consider preparing the quiche but halting at the baking step. You can refrigerate it unbaked for up to a day, and then bake it fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.

When it comes to reheating, the oven is your best friend to maintain that flaky crust. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the quiche loosely with foil to prevent over-browning, and reheat for about 15-20 minutes. If you're short on time, individual slices can be microwaved for about 1-2 minutes, but keep in mind that this may result in a softer crust. Enjoy your quiche warm or at room temperature, perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious quiche:

Ingredients for Caramelized Onion and Spinach Quiche

1 pre-baked pie crust
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
3 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère or cheddar)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

With your ingredients prepared, you’re ready to mix and bake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your quiche:

Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes until they are golden and caramelized.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir in the chopped spinach and caramelized onions, followed by the shredded cheese.

Assemble the Quiche

Pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly. You can sprinkle more cheese on top if desired.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly browned on top.

Cool and Serve

Let the quiche cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade quiche with a fresh salad or on its own!

Pro Tips

For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free crust or make a crustless quiche by omitting the crust entirely. Also, experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite flavor combination.

Serving Suggestions

This quiche stands beautifully on its own but can be enhanced with a simple side salad or some sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. I recommend pairing it with a light, citrusy salad dressed with a vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the quiche. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top just before serving can add a burst of freshness and color.

For a more hearty experience, consider serving slices warm with a dollop of crème fraîche or a side of roasted tomatoes. These additions not only complement the quiche flavors but also elevate the presentation, making it an impressive choice for gatherings or family dinners.

Variations to Explore

There's room for creativity with this quiche recipe. Try experimenting by adding other vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers, or for a protein boost, incorporate cooked bacon or ham. Cheese options can be altered as well; while Gruyère and cheddar are classic, feta or goat cheese can impart a tangy flavor that works beautifully with the sweetness of the onions.

For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust or even a crustless variation by baking the filling directly in a greased dish. Not only does this simplify the recipe, but it also makes it a lighter option perfect for those avoiding gluten.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the quiche in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the quiche ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it's cold.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can include vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just make sure to sauté them before adding to the filling to reduce moisture.

→ Can I freeze the quiche?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked quiche for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before baking.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through for the best texture.