appetizers

Mini Quiche

These mini quiches are delightful bite-sized pastries filled with a mix of eggs, cheese, meats, and vegetables. Perfect for brunches, parties, or as an elegant appetizer, these versatile quiches can be tailored to your favorite flavor combinations. With options like Greek, Ham & Cheese, or Bacon, there’s something to please everyone!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Base:

  • 3 pie crust rounds
  • 3 eggs
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray

Topping Options:

Greek (for 8 mini quiches):

  • ½ cup cooked spinach, chopped (excess water removed)
  • ¼ cup roasted red bell peppers, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon fresh dill, minced

Ham & Cheese (for 8 mini quiches):

  • ¼ cup ham, diced
  • ⅓ cup Swiss cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced

Bacon (for 8 mini quiches):

  • ¼ cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • ⅓ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced

Directions

  1. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Coat a 24-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray.
  2. Cut the Pie Crusts:
    • Unroll the pie crusts and cut out 24 circles using a 3-inch cookie cutter.
    • Press each crust circle into the muffin tin.
  3. Make the Egg Mixture:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add Fillings:
    • Divide the selected topping ingredients among 8 muffin cups per flavor.
  5. Fill with Egg Mixture:
    • Pour the egg mixture into each muffin cup, filling them ¾ of the way.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
    • Use a spatula to gently lift the quiches from the tin.
  7. Serve:
    • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrients (Per Mini Quiche)

  • Calories: 52 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 34mg
  • Sodium: 107mg

These savory mini quiches are a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion!

Why Mini Quiches?

The appeal of mini quiches lies in their adaptability and universal charm. Whether you’re serving a small family breakfast or hosting a large event, these petite pastries are sure to impress. Here’s why they’re a go-to option:

  • Portion Control
    Their small size makes it easy to serve just the right amount, whether you’re catering to a light appetite or allowing guests to sample multiple flavors.
  • Endless Flavor Options
    With a customizable base and a variety of toppings, you can create countless combinations to suit any theme, preference, or dietary requirement.
  • Ease of Preparation
    Despite their elegant appearance, mini quiches are surprisingly easy to prepare. Using pre-made pie crusts saves time, and the filling comes together in minutes.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly
    Mini quiches can be prepared in advance and reheated when needed, making them an excellent choice for busy hosts.

A Symphony of Flavors

One of the standout features of this recipe is the variety of flavor profiles you can achieve with just a few simple ingredients. Here’s a closer look at the options provided:

  • Greek Mini Quiches
    Combining spinach, roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and dill, these quiches are a Mediterranean-inspired delight. The flavors are fresh and vibrant, making them a lighter choice that’s still packed with taste.
  • Ham & Cheese Mini Quiches
    A classic pairing, ham and Swiss cheese create a comforting, rich flavor profile. The addition of parsley brings a hint of freshness that balances the savory ingredients.
  • Bacon Mini Quiches
    Smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and green onions come together for a bold and satisfying flavor combination. These are a favorite for those who love hearty, indulgent bites.

Nutrition Meets Indulgence

While mini quiches feel indulgent, they can also be a balanced choice when enjoyed in moderation. Each mini quiche is approximately 52 calories, making them a guilt-free treat when paired with fresh fruit or a green salad. Here’s why they’re a smart choice:

  • High-Quality Protein: The egg base provides a good source of protein, essential for energy and muscle repair.
  • Customizable Fat Content: Depending on your choice of toppings, you can control the level of fat, opting for leaner meats or cheese alternatives if desired.
  • Nutrient-Rich Fillings: Ingredients like spinach, roasted red peppers, and fresh herbs add vitamins and antioxidants to your diet.

Perfect for Any Occasion

The beauty of mini quiches lies in their versatility, making them suitable for a range of occasions:

  • Breakfast or Brunch
    Serve them alongside fresh fruit, pastries, and coffee for a well-rounded breakfast spread. Their small size makes them easy to eat on the go, perfect for busy mornings.
  • Elegant Appetizers
    Mini quiches are a chic addition to any cocktail party or formal dinner. Arrange them on a platter with garnishes like fresh herbs or edible flowers for a sophisticated presentation.
  • Holiday Gatherings
    These bite-sized treats are a hit at holiday parties. Prepare a mix of flavors to cater to a crowd with diverse tastes.
  • Kid-Friendly Snacking
    Mini quiches are a great way to sneak vegetables into a kid-approved snack. The small size and fun flavors make them a hit with younger eaters.
  • Meal Prep Staple
    Prepare a batch over the weekend and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick breakfasts, snacks, or lunches throughout the week.

Tips for Success

To ensure your mini quiches come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

  • Use a Cookie Cutter for Uniformity: Cutting the pie crust with a cookie cutter ensures even sizing and a professional appearance.
  • Don’t Overfill the Cups: Fill the muffin cups about three-quarters full to prevent the egg mixture from spilling over as it bakes.
  • Pre-Cook Watery Ingredients: For toppings like spinach or mushrooms, remove excess moisture by cooking them lightly beforehand. This prevents soggy quiches.
  • Let Them Cool Slightly: Allow the quiches to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin to ensure they hold their shape.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings. From caramelized onions and goat cheese to smoked salmon and dill, the possibilities are endless.

Storage and Reheating

Mini quiches are highly storage-friendly, making them a convenient choice for meal prep or events:

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Place cooled quiches in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen quiches, extend the reheating time by a few minutes.

Conclusion: Mini Quiches for Every Craving

Mini quiches are a delightful addition to any menu, combining elegance, flavor, and convenience in a single bite. Their adaptability allows you to experiment with endless combinations of ingredients, making them a favorite for both cooks and guests alike. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated brunch, preparing snacks for the week, or bringing a dish to a potluck, mini quiches are sure to impress.

 

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