Nothing beats a warm, fluffy crustless quiche packed with cheese and your favorite mix-ins. This high-protein dish is easy to prep, bakes perfectly golden, and fits any diet. With no crust to fuss over, it’s lighter, faster, and naturally gluten-free. Perfect for meal prep, family brunches, or busy mornings, this recipe guarantees flavor in every bite.
Table of Contents
What Is a Crustless Quiche?
A crustless quiche is a savory baked egg dish similar to a frittata but creamier. Instead of a pastry crust, the eggs and milk form the base, holding your mix-ins like cheese, vegetables, and meats together. It’s a simple twist on the classic French quiche that keeps things light and low in carbs. You’ll still enjoy the same rich flavor but without the extra calories or prep work. Whether you love bacon, broccoli, or cheese, you can easily customize it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crustless quiche is high in protein, quick to make, and completely customizable. It’s also perfect for keto, gluten-free, and low-carb diets. You can prep it ahead for easy breakfasts or enjoy it fresh from the oven for a cozy meal. Each bite is creamy, fluffy, and full of flavor. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since there’s no dough to roll out or crust to blind bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of fresh, everyday ingredients to make this recipe come together beautifully. Eggs provide richness and structure, while milk and half-and-half create a smooth, custardy texture. A touch of Dijon mustard adds subtle depth, and a pinch of nutmeg rounds out the flavor. Your mix-ins bring personality, from savory bacon to tender veggies. Finally, cheese melts perfectly, giving the quiche its creamy finish.
Egg Base Essentials
Use six large eggs whisked with milk and half-and-half. This combination keeps the texture light but rich. Salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard enhance the natural egg flavor, while nutmeg adds warmth. For the best consistency, whisk until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
Best Mix-Ins and Flavor Boosters
Mix-ins make every crustless quiche unique. Cooked bacon, roasted vegetables, caramelized onions, or diced ham are classic choices. You can also add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. Sauté vegetables first to remove moisture and prevent a watery quiche. Fresh herbs like chives or thyme bring freshness and aroma.
Cheese Options and Substitutions
Gruyère is traditional, but you can swap it for sharp cheddar, fontina, or smoked mozzarella. Each cheese melts differently, giving its own twist. For a stronger flavor, mix two types. For dairy-free diets, use plant-based cheese that melts well.
How to Make Crustless Quiche Step-by-Step
This recipe comes together easily in under an hour, making it ideal for busy mornings.
Prep Your Dish and Mix-Ins
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or nonstick spray. Cook and chop your chosen mix-ins, such as bacon or broccoli. Spread them evenly in the dish.
Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, half-and-half, salt, pepper, mustard, and nutmeg. Keep whisking until smooth and combined.
Assemble the Quiche
Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the mix-ins, then pour the egg mixture on top. Add chives for color and flavor.
Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake for 35 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are puffed and golden. Let cool slightly before slicing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor
Preventing a Watery Quiche
Always cook high-water vegetables before adding them. Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini should be sautéed first to reduce moisture. This keeps your quiche firm and not soggy.
Balancing Mix-Ins and Cheese
Stick to 1½ cups total mix-ins and ⅔ cup cheese. Too much will weigh down the quiche, while too little can make it bland. Keep ingredients evenly distributed for the best results.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
You can prep the mix-ins a day ahead or assemble the unbaked quiche and refrigerate overnight. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Customization Ideas and Variations
High-Protein Add-Ins
Boost protein with diced ham, turkey sausage, or grilled chicken. You can even try smoked salmon for a fancier twist.
Vegetarian and Keto-Friendly Options
Skip the meat and load up on low-carb veggies like spinach, zucchini, or artichokes. This keeps it light but filling.
Popular Flavor Combos
Try spinach and feta for Mediterranean vibes or bacon and cheddar for a classic. A Southwest mix with peppers and chorizo adds a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your crustless quiche with a side salad or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. It’s also great with fruit or avocado toast for breakfast. For brunch, serve it with High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a cozy combo.
Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a 350°F oven until warm or microwave briefly. To freeze, wrap tightly in foil and store for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Mini Crustless Quiches Option
For bite-size portions, divide the mixture into muffin tins and bake until golden. These are perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or lunchboxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a crustless quiche?
It’s a quiche without the pastry crust, lighter yet still creamy.
What is a crustless quiche called?
It’s simply called a crustless quiche or sometimes a crustless egg bake.
How would you describe a quiche?
A soft, fluffy, savory pie made with eggs, milk, cheese, and mix-ins.
How to tell if crustless quiche is done?
The center should be set and not jiggle when gently shaken.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Homemade Blueberry Protein Muffins
- Breakfast Burritos – Hearty and Cheesy
- Tater Tot Sausage Breakfast Casserole
- Chicken and Zucchini Skillet
- Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
Conclusion
This crustless quiche is the ultimate easy breakfast or lunch that fits every lifestyle. It’s rich, fluffy, and endlessly adaptable. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it every week. For more recipe ideas, check out my Pinterest at Ellie’s Microwave Recipes.
Crustless Quiche
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish For baking the quiche
- Mixing bowl For whisking eggs and milk
- Whisk To mix ingredients smoothly
- Oven Preheated to 350°F
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- ⅔ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup half-and-half
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 ½ cups mix-ins (like cooked bacon, sautéed broccoli, or roasted vegetables)
- ⅔ cup grated Gruyère cheese (or fontina, cheddar, mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch pie dish with nonstick spray or butter.
- Prepare your desired mix-ins by cooking and chopping as needed. Spread them evenly in the pie dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, half-and-half, salt, pepper, mustard, and nutmeg until smooth and frothy.
- Sprinkle cheese over the mix-ins, then pour the egg mixture on top. Add chopped chives.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until the center is set and edges are golden. Cool slightly before slicing and serving.
