Crustless Quiche Recipe

This crustless quiche recipe features crispy bacon, spinach, and melty cheese in a rich egg custard. Simple, comforting, and ready in under an hour.

This crustless quiche recipe is the easiest way to get all the creamy, savory goodness of a classic quiche without ever touching a rolling pin.

It’s loaded with crispy bacon, wilted spinach, and two kinds of melty cheese, all held together by a rich, custardy egg base.

No soggy bottom crust to worry about, no blind baking, just a whisk, a pie dish, and about fifty five minutes from start to finish.

I make this at least twice a month, whether it’s for a lazy Sunday brunch, a make-ahead breakfast for the week, or a low-carb dinner when I want something that feels a little fancy without much effort.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings8 slices
Difficulty LevelEasy

This pairs beautifully alongside a slice of Quiche Lorraine if you’re setting up a full brunch spread and want to give guests a choice.

Crustless Quiche Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Crustless Quiche Recipe

There’s a reason crustless quiche has become such a brunch table staple.

It delivers everything you love about a traditional quiche in a fraction of the time, with none of the crust-related stress.

  • No pastry dough to make, chill, roll out, or blind bake
  • Naturally gluten free, so it works for a wider range of guests
  • Ready in under an hour from start to finish
  • Endlessly adaptable to whatever veggies, meats, and cheese you have on hand
  • Reheats beautifully, so it’s an easy make-ahead breakfast for busy weeks
  • Just as good served warm, at room temperature, or cold straight from the fridge

If you’re building out a whole spread, this is a great one to serve next to my Air Fryer Quiche for guests who want individual portions.

Ingredients

Every ingredient here earns its place, and together they build that classic rich, custardy quiche texture without any flour or crust.

  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 slices applewood smoked bacon, chopped
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, for garnish
  • Butter or oil, for greasing the pan

You might also enjoy: Frittata if you want a stovetop-to-oven version with a slightly different egg-to-milk ratio.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need much specialty gear here, just a few basics that make the process smoother.

  • A 9 inch ceramic pie dish or quiche dish
  • A large nonstick skillet for cooking the bacon and vegetables
  • A large mixing bowl
  • A balloon whisk
  • A box grater, if shredding your own cheese
  • A cutting board and sharp knife

This same equipment list works well for my Vegetable Frittata, so it’s worth keeping these pieces handy in your kitchen.

Recommended Products for This Recipe

These are a few products I personally use and recommend based on making this quiche more times than I can count.

1. Ceramic Quiche Dish

A proper ceramic quiche or pie dish distributes heat evenly, so the edges of your quiche set at the same rate as the center.

It also looks great going straight from the oven to the table, which makes serving brunch that much easier.

Get it on Amazon

2. Imported Gruyere Cheese

Gruyere melts into that classic nutty, slightly sweet flavor you associate with a true French quiche.

A little goes a long way, and it makes a noticeable difference compared to pre-shredded cheddar alone.

Get it on Amazon

3. Applewood Smoked Bacon

Good bacon matters more than people expect in a dish this simple.

Applewood smoked bacon adds a subtle sweetness and deeper smokiness that plain bacon just doesn’t have.

Get it on Amazon

4. Glass Mixing Bowl Set

A sturdy, nesting glass bowl set makes whisking eggs and prepping fillings so much easier, and they’re microwave and dishwasher safe for easy cleanup afterward.

Get it on Amazon

Another favorite: Sausage Egg Strata if you want to feed a bigger crowd with a bread-based egg bake instead.

Crustless Quiche Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Crustless Quiche

1. Preheat the Oven and Prep the Pan

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Generously grease your 9 inch pie dish with butter or oil, making sure to coat the sides as well as the bottom.
  • Greasing the sides thoroughly now will make slicing and serving the finished quiche much easier later.

2. Cook the Bacon

  • Place the chopped bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
  • Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6 to 8 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and browned.
  • Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel lined plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of the rendered fat in the skillet.

3. Sauté the Onion and Spinach

  • Add the diced onion to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat.
  • Cook over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent.
  • Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more, just until wilted.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly while you prepare the egg base, the same technique I use in my Spinach and Tomato Frittata.

4. Whisk the Egg Base

  • In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 eggs and whisk until fully blended and slightly frothy.
  • Add the whole milk, half-and-half, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
  • Whisk everything together until smooth and evenly combined.

5. Layer the Fillings

  • Scatter the cooked bacon evenly across the bottom of the greased pie dish.
  • Spread the sautéed onion and spinach mixture evenly over the bacon.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheese evenly over the top of the fillings, similar to how I build the layers in my Mediterranean Spinach Egg Strata.

6. Pour and Bake

  • Slowly pour the whisked egg mixture over the fillings in the pie dish, making sure it settles evenly around the bacon, spinach, and cheese.
  • Give the dish a gentle shake to help everything settle evenly.
  • Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the center is just set and no longer jiggles when the dish is gently shaken.
  • The top should be lightly golden and slightly puffed.

7. Rest, Garnish, and Serve

  • Remove the quiche from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing, this helps it set fully and makes for cleaner slices.
  • Sprinkle the chopped fresh chives over the top just before serving.
  • Slice into 8 wedges and serve warm.

Another favorite: Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Casserole if you want a heartier, bread-based version for a bigger crowd.

Tips for The Best Crustless Quiche

A few small details make a big difference between a good crustless quiche and a great one.

  • Don’t skip greasing the sides of the pan, not just the bottom, or the quiche will stick when you try to slice it.
  • Squeeze out excess moisture from any vegetables before adding them, especially if using frozen spinach, or the quiche can turn watery.
  • Shred your own cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded bags, it melts more smoothly and gives a creamier texture.
  • Let the quiche rest for a full 10 minutes before slicing, cutting into it too early can cause it to fall apart.
  • Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan, the center should jiggle only slightly, not look liquid.

I learned the moisture trick the hard way while developing my Ham Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole, and it applies here too.

You might also enjoy: Spinach and Feta Breakfast Casserole for another crust-free egg bake with a Mediterranean twist.

Serving Suggestions

Crustless Quiche Recipe

Crustless quiche is flexible enough to work for almost any meal of the day.

Here’s how I like to round it out depending on the occasion.

  • A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light lunch
  • Fresh fruit and pastries for a full weekend brunch spread
  • Roasted breakfast potatoes on the side for a heartier meal
  • A mimosa or fresh orange juice if you’re serving guests
  • Alongside Air Fryer Egg Bites if you’re feeding a bigger group and want variety

It also holds up well cold the next day, sliced and packed into lunchboxes alongside leftovers from my Omelet for a protein-packed midday meal.

Variations of Crustless Quiche

Once you’ve made the base recipe once, it’s easy to switch things up based on what’s in your fridge.

  • Swap the bacon for cooked breakfast sausage or diced ham
  • Use broccoli, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers in place of spinach
  • Try feta and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-style version
  • Make it vegetarian by skipping the bacon and adding an extra cup of vegetables
  • Swap the cheddar and Gruyere for pepper jack for a spicier version

For a fully vegetarian take that leans into the Mediterranean flavors, my Vegetarian Spinach and Feta Quiche is a great next recipe to try.

Read Also: Mini Quiche Recipe

Storage and Reheating

This quiche keeps well, which makes it a great option for meal prep.

  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
  • Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months
  • Reheat refrigerated slices in the microwave for 60 to 90 seconds, or in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes
  • Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating
  • Avoid reheating at very high heat, which can cause the eggs to turn rubbery

This pairs beautifully with my Spinach and Feta Pie for a make-ahead brunch spread that reheats just as well.

Nutritional Facts

Nutrition will vary slightly depending on the exact cheese and bacon used, but here’s an approximate breakdown per slice, based on 8 servings.

  • Calories: 260
  • Protein: 17g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 480mg

For another lighter, protein-forward option, take a look at my Asparagus and Cheese Strata.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This quiche isn’t just comforting, it also brings a solid dose of nutrition to the table.

A few of the standout ingredients do more than just add flavor.

  • Eggs are a complete protein source and provide choline, which supports brain health
  • Spinach adds iron, vitamin K, and folate without adding many calories
  • Cheese contributes calcium and additional protein to help keep you full
  • Onions provide antioxidants and support gut health
  • Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream keeps the richness while trimming some fat

You might also enjoy: Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise Sauce for another egg-forward brunch classic.

FAQs About Crustless Quiche

1. Can I make crustless quiche ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake it a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.

Reheat individual slices in the oven or microwave before serving.

2. Why is my crustless quiche watery?

This usually happens when vegetables release moisture during baking.

Sautéing your vegetables first and draining any excess liquid before adding them helps prevent this.

3. Can I freeze crustless quiche?

Yes, this quiche freezes well for up to 2 months.

Wrap slices individually and thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. How do I know when the quiche is done baking?

The center should be just set and only slightly jiggly when the pan is gently shaken.

A knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.

5. Can I use milk instead of half-and-half?

Yes, though the texture will be slightly less rich and creamy.

You can also swap in heavy cream for an even richer result.

For more egg bites to keep in your rotation, try my Air Fryer Egg Cups next.

Crustless Quiche Recipe

Crustless Quiche

Author: iamwinfred
260kcal
No ratings yet
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Prep 15 minutes
Cook 40 minutes
Total 55 minutes
This crustless quiche delivers all the creamy, savory goodness of a classic quiche without any pastry dough, rolling pin, or blind baking. Loaded with crispy bacon, wilted spinach, and two kinds of melty cheese, it’s all held together by a rich, custardy egg base. Ready in under an hour, naturally gluten free, and endlessly adaptable, it’s perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch, a make-ahead breakfast for the week, or a low-carb dinner that feels a little fancy without much effort.
Servings 8 slices
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Main Course
Cuisine French
Cost $12

Ingredients

  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk 240ml
  • 1/2 cup half-and-half 120ml
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 slices applewood smoked bacon chopped
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach roughly chopped
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives for garnish
  • butter or oil for greasing the pan

Equipment

  • 9 inch ceramic pie dish or quiche dish
  • Large nonstick skillet for cooking the bacon and vegetables
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Box grater if shredding your own cheese
  • Cutting board and sharp knife

Method

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9 inch pie dish with butter or oil, coating the sides as well as the bottom.
  2. Cook chopped bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of rendered fat in the skillet.
  3. Sauté diced onion in the reserved bacon fat over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add spinach and cook 1 to 2 minutes more until wilted. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until fully blended and slightly frothy. Add milk, half-and-half, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and evenly combined.
  5. Scatter cooked bacon evenly across the bottom of the greased pie dish. Spread the sautéed onion and spinach mixture over the bacon, then sprinkle both cheeses evenly over the top.
  6. Slowly pour the egg mixture over the fillings. Gently shake the dish to settle everything evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is just set and no longer jiggles.
  7. Remove from oven and rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with fresh chives, slice into 8 wedges, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving1SliceCalories260kcalCarbohydrates3gProtein17gFat20gSaturated Fat9gSodium480mgFiber0.5gSugar2g

Notes

  • Grease the sides of the pan, not just the bottom, or the quiche will stick when you try to slice it.
  • Squeeze out excess moisture from any vegetables before adding them, especially frozen spinach, or the quiche can turn watery.
  • Shred your own cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded bags; it melts more smoothly and gives a creamier texture.
  • Let the quiche rest for a full 10 minutes before slicing; cutting into it too early can cause it to fall apart.
  • Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan; the center should jiggle only slightly, not look liquid.
  • Swap the bacon for cooked breakfast sausage or diced ham for a variation.
  • Use broccoli, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers in place of spinach.
  • Make it vegetarian by skipping the bacon and adding an extra cup of vegetables.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat refrigerated slices in the microwave for 60 to 90 seconds, or in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes; avoid very high heat which can make eggs rubbery.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Conclusion

This crustless quiche has earned its permanent spot in my breakfast rotation, and I think it will in yours too.

It’s simple enough for a weekday morning, yet special enough to serve when company comes over.

Give it a try this weekend, and let me know in the comments what fillings you used.

I’d love to see your version, so feel free to snap a photo and share it if you make this recipe.

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