French Onion Crustless Quiche: A Savory and Flavorful Dish for Any Occasion
Quiche is a beloved dish that’s known for its savory flavor and rich texture. While traditional quiches feature a crust, a French Onion Crustless Quiche offers the same delightful flavors but without the hassle of making a crust. The main star of this dish is the caramelized onions, which provide a deep, sweet flavor, complemented by creamy eggs, cheese, and a delicate blend of herbs. This recipe is perfect for brunch, lunch, or even as a light dinner option. It’s also a great choice for those seeking a lower-carb alternative to the traditional quiche.
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Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1 cup gruyère cheese, shredded (or any cheese of your choice)
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional for added flavor)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until the onions are soft, golden brown, and caramelized. Add the salt, pepper, and thyme halfway through cooking to season the onions. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, gruyère cheese, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Combine the Onion and Egg Mixture: Stir the caramelized onions into the egg mixture until fully incorporated.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased pie dish or baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes or until the quiche is set and slightly golden on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Serve: Allow the quiche to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Advanced Techniques
Caramelizing Onions to Perfection
The key to this dish lies in the caramelized onions. To ensure the onions develop a rich, sweet flavor, cook them over low to medium heat and be patient. Stir the onions occasionally and avoid rushing the process by turning the heat too high. If you want a deeper flavor, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or vegetable broth during cooking.
Make-Ahead Option
You can easily make this French Onion Crustless Quiche ahead of time. After baking, let the quiche cool completely, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. It’s also great for freezing; wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, just bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Cheese Variations
While gruyère cheese is the classic choice, you can experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist. Swiss cheese, cheddar, or even feta cheese can give your quiche different textures and flavor profiles. A blend of cheeses will also add a layer of complexity to the dish.
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Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Storage
Store any leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To maintain the best texture, let the quiche cool completely before refrigerating it.
Freezing
This French Onion Crustless Quiche freezes well. To freeze, cool the quiche completely and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or place the entire quiche back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the same oven instructions.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free
This quiche is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any crust. Just ensure that all your ingredients, including cheese and seasonings, are gluten-free.
Low-Carb/Keto
For a low-carb or keto version, the quiche is already suitable as long as you are using a low-carb cream or milk alternative. You can also swap out the gruyère for a cheese lower in carbs if desired.
Dairy-Free
To make this quiche dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk. Use dairy-free cheese to replace the gruyère and parmesan.
Vegetarian
This recipe is vegetarian as it doesn’t contain meat, but you can add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
FAQs About The Recipe
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes! While gruyère is the classic choice, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss. Each will offer a unique flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this quiche without onions?
A: Onions are essential to the flavor of this dish, but if you prefer, you can substitute with leeks or shallots for a slightly milder taste.
Q: How do I avoid a soggy crustless quiche?
A: To prevent a soggy quiche, make sure you caramelize the onions well, removing any excess moisture. Also, avoid overfilling the baking dish to allow enough room for the egg mixture to set properly.
Q: Can I add meat to the quiche?
A: Absolutely! You can add cooked bacon, sausage, or ham for a heartier dish. Simply incorporate the meat into the egg mixture after cooking the onions.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
French Onion Crustless Quiche is a delightful, savory dish that brings the rich flavors of caramelized onions and cheese together in a satisfying, crust-free quiche. Perfect for a brunch gathering, light lunch, or even as a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is both versatile and delicious. Whether you choose to customize it with different cheeses or add some extra veggies, this quiche is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy a slice warm, or take it to-go for a satisfying meal anytime!