Crustless quiche is one of those quietly brilliant recipes that solves multiple problems at once. It’s elegant enough for brunch, hearty enough for dinner, and easy enough for weekday meal prep—all without the extra step of making a crust. This Crustless Quiche with Ham, Broccoli & Cheese brings together savory diced ham, vibrant broccoli florets, and melty cheese in a silky egg custard that bakes up light, fluffy, and deeply satisfying.

Whether you’re feeding a family, planning a brunch spread, or stocking your fridge with grab-and-go breakfasts, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. And because it’s naturally gluten-free and low in carbs, it fits beautifully into a wide range of lifestyles without ever feeling like “diet food.”

Why Crustless Quiche Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Rotation

Traditional quiche is wonderful, but skipping the crust has some serious perks. Without pastry, the focus shifts to the filling—meaning more protein, more vegetables, and more flavor in every bite. A crustless quiche is also faster to assemble, lighter on the stomach, and easier to reheat without getting soggy.

This particular combination of ham, broccoli, and cheese is a classic for good reason. The salty richness of the ham balances the freshness of the broccoli, while cheese ties everything together with creamy indulgence. It’s comforting, familiar, and endlessly adaptable.

Ingredients

6 large eggs
1 cup milk or half-and-half
1½ cups cooked ham, diced
1½ cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a blend)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Non-stick spray or butter for greasing the dish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or similar baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
If your broccoli is raw, lightly steam or microwave it for 1–2 minutes until just tender. Drain well and pat dry.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined and slightly frothy.
Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the egg mixture and whisk again.
Stir in the diced ham, chopped broccoli, and shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading the fillings evenly.
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let the quiche rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up and slice cleanly.

Texture, Flavor & What to Expect

When baked correctly, this crustless quiche has a custard-like interior that’s soft but sliceable, never watery or rubbery. The cheese melts into the eggs, creating pockets of richness, while the broccoli adds gentle texture and freshness. Ham brings a savory depth that makes each bite satisfying without being heavy.

Letting the quiche rest after baking is key—it finishes setting as it cools slightly, giving you neat slices and the perfect mouthfeel.

Best Cheese Choices for This Quiche

One of the easiest ways to customize this recipe is through cheese selection. Each option brings its own personality:

Cheddar: Sharp, bold, and classic
Swiss: Mild, nutty, and very traditional with ham
Gruyère: Rich and slightly sweet for a more upscale feel
Mozzarella: Mild and melty, great if you prefer subtle flavors

You can also combine cheeses for extra depth.

Tips for Quiche Success

Always drain broccoli well to avoid excess moisture.
Use full-fat dairy for the creamiest texture.
Dice ham small so it distributes evenly.
Don’t overbake—remove when the center is just set.
Let it rest before slicing for clean presentation.

Variations & Easy Swaps

This crustless quiche is incredibly flexible:

Swap ham for cooked bacon or turkey.
Add sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Use spinach instead of broccoli (squeeze it dry).
Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
Go dairy-free using plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm or at room temperature with:

A simple green salad
Fresh fruit for brunch
Roasted potatoes for dinner
Toast or English muffins if you’re not low-carb

It also pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or a light mimosa.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

This quiche keeps extremely well:

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven.
Freeze individual portions tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.

It’s ideal for meal prep and busy mornings.

A Little Quiche History

Quiche originated in France, but crustless versions became popular in American kitchens thanks to their simplicity and versatility. Today, crustless quiche is a staple for home cooks who want comfort food that’s both practical and nourishing.