Savory Ground Beef and Spinach Quiche
Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes
I absolutely love making this Savory Ground Beef and Spinach Quiche for brunch or dinner. The combination of tender ground beef, fresh spinach, and creamy cheese creates a rich and satisfying dish that never fails to please my family and friends. I particularly enjoy the flaky crust that adds a delightful crunch to every bite. Plus, it’s really simple to throw together, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a special occasion dish. Trust me, once you try it, this quiche will become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Every time I make this quiche, I’m reminded of lazy Sunday mornings spent with family. I remember the first time I combined ground beef and spinach for a quiche; the flavors were so harmonious, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special. I also discovered that par-cooking the beef beforehand intensifies the flavor and ensures it doesn’t release too much grease into the quiche.
As I experimented with different cheeses, I found that a blend of cheddar and Swiss added a wonderful depth of flavor. Serving it warm allows the cheese to be melty while still holding the quiche together. I always make sure to serve it with a light salad to balance the richness. This quiche is truly a labor of love and great for sharing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying blend of flavors
- Rich, creamy texture with a flaky crust
- Versatile dish perfect for any meal
The Role of Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh spinach in this Savory Ground Beef and Spinach Quiche not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutrition. Fresh spinach provides a vibrant color and a slight earthiness that complements the rich beef and creamy cheeses. Be sure to wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any grit, and chopping it allows for even distribution throughout the quiche, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
The cheeses used in this quiche, cheddar, and Swiss, play important roles in both taste and texture. Cheddar brings a sharp tanginess, while Swiss offers a subtle nuttiness. When combined, they melt beautifully, resulting in a creamy filling that binds the ingredients together. If you prefer a different flavor profile, feel free to substitute these cheeses with mozzarella or pepper jack for a milder or spicier kick.
Perfecting the Crust
Choosing the right crust can significantly affect the quiche's overall texture. A refrigerated pie crust is convenient and yields a flaky, tender base, but for those who wish to elevate the dish, making a homemade crust may be worthwhile. A basic pastry crust made from flour, butter, and a pinch of salt offers a buttery richness that pairs beautifully with the quiche's savory filling. If you opt for store-bought, consider letting it come to room temperature before placing it in the pie pan, ensuring it fits without tearing.
Blind baking the crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling can prevent a soggy bottom, which is a common issue with quiches. To do this, simply line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. This extra step ensures that your crust remains crisply baked, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
Ingredients
Quiche Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Crust
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in chopped spinach, and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
Prepare Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked beef-spinach mixture and shredded cheeses.
Assemble the Quiche
Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan. Pour the filling into the crust and spread evenly.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some herbs like thyme or basil. You can also substitute the beef for sausage or turkey for a different twist!
Make-Ahead Tips
This quiche is an excellent option for meal prep; you can make it a day ahead. Prepare the quiche, cool it completely, and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through, allowing the flavors to meld even further.
If you're short on time, you can also assemble the quiche but skip the baking. Cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking. This adjustment helps ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Although this Savory Ground Beef and Spinach Quiche shines on its own, serving it alongside a fresh green salad enhances the meal. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the quiche. You could also serve it with slices of fresh fruit for a pop of sweetness, making it a great option for brunch.
For those who want to try variations, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the mix for added flavor complexity. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley folded into the filling can also elevate the dish. Experiment with different add-ins but be mindful of how moisture from ingredients can impact baking time and quiche texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quiche and refrigerate it before baking for up to 24 hours. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
→ What can I substitute for spinach?
You can use kale or Swiss chard for a similar effect, or even other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for variation.
→ How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftover quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
→ Can I freeze the quiche?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked quiche for up to 2 months. Bake it straight from the freezer, but increase the baking time.
Savory Ground Beef and Spinach Quiche
I absolutely love making this Savory Ground Beef and Spinach Quiche for brunch or dinner. The combination of tender ground beef, fresh spinach, and creamy cheese creates a rich and satisfying dish that never fails to please my family and friends. I particularly enjoy the flaky crust that adds a delightful crunch to every bite. Plus, it’s really simple to throw together, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a special occasion dish. Trust me, once you try it, this quiche will become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Easy Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Quiche Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Crust
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in chopped spinach, and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked beef-spinach mixture and shredded cheeses.
Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan. Pour the filling into the crust and spread evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some herbs like thyme or basil. You can also substitute the beef for sausage or turkey for a different twist!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g