Mini Quiches Recipe | Easy Savory Brunch Bites
1. Introduction
Mini quiches are the ultimate bite-sized savory treat — perfect for brunch, parties, or appetizer spreads. Flaky pastry crusts hold a creamy egg mixture loaded with cheese, vegetables, and optional meats, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
These mini quiches are versatile and customizable, allowing you to mix and match fillings based on your taste or dietary needs. From classic bacon and cheddar to spinach and feta, these little quiches are always a crowd-pleaser.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make perfectly baked, golden mini quiches that are creamy inside and lightly crisp outside. They’re easy to prep ahead of time and perfect for entertaining.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
1. Pie Crust or Puff Pastry (1 package)
Pre-made pie crust or puff pastry sheets save time and give a flaky, buttery base. You can also make your own for a richer flavor.
2. Eggs (4 large)
The foundation of the filling, providing structure and creaminess.
3. Milk or Heavy Cream (1 cup)
Adds richness and helps create a custard-like texture. Heavy cream makes them extra creamy; milk keeps them lighter.
4. Cheese (1 cup shredded, such as cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère)
Melted cheese enhances flavor and creates a luscious texture.
5. Fillings (1–1.5 cups total)
- Vegetables: spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, broccoli
- Meats: cooked bacon, ham, or sausage
- Herbs: chives, parsley, or thyme for freshness
6. Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Essential for seasoning the custard.
Optional Toppings:
- Extra cheese for a golden crust
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Dietary Substitutions:
- Use dairy-free milk or cheese for lactose-free versions.
- Gluten-free pastry for dietary restrictions.
- Egg substitute or tofu-based custard for vegan options.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners for easy removal.
Roll out pastry and cut into circles slightly larger than your muffin cups. Press into each cup to form the base.
Step 2: Prepare Fillings
Cook any vegetables or meats that need pre-cooking (e.g., sauté mushrooms, cook bacon).
Chop ingredients into small, uniform pieces for even distribution.
Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
Stir in shredded cheese and chopped herbs.
Step 4: Assemble the Mini Quiches
Place a small amount of filling into each pastry cup.
Pour the egg mixture over the filling, filling cups almost to the top.
Tip: Don’t overfill; eggs expand as they bake.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the custard is set.
Cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
4. Tips and Variations
Pro Tips:
- Blind bake pastry for 5 minutes to prevent soggy bottoms.
- Mix cheeses for richer flavor.
- Use uniform filling pieces for even cooking.
- Assemble ahead and refrigerate, bake just before serving.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Spinach, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
- Meat Lovers: Bacon, sausage, and cheddar.
- Cheesy Deluxe: Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan blend.
- Mediterranean: Feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives.
- Mini Quiche Lorraine: Bacon, Swiss cheese, and a hint of nutmeg.
5. Serving Suggestions
Perfect For:
- Brunch spreads
- Holiday or cocktail parties
- Picnics or potlucks
- Kid-friendly finger foods
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve on a large platter with fresh herbs sprinkled on top.
- Arrange in a circular pattern for visual appeal.
- Pair with dipping sauces like sour cream, hollandaise, or herbed yogurt.
Drink Pairings:
- Mimosas or sparkling wine for brunch
- White wine or light cocktails for parties
- Fresh juice for kid-friendly versions
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
- Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: 30–60 seconds per quiche for quick reheating.
7. Recipe Notes
- Pre-cut pastry circles and fillings can be prepped the day before.
- Best served warm but still delicious at room temperature.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for optimal melt and flavor.
- Mini muffin pans yield 12–16 quiches depending on size.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Mini Quiche, assuming 12 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Sodium | 160 mg |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
| Calcium | 70 mg |
| Iron | 0.7 mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Appetizer / Brunch
Cuisine: French / European
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 package pie crust or puff pastry
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, Gruyère)
- 1–1.5 cups fillings (vegetables, bacon, ham)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare muffin tin.
- Roll pastry and line muffin cups.
- Pre-cook fillings if needed.
- Whisk eggs, milk, cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Fill pastry cups with fillings and pour egg mixture on top.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until set and golden.
- Cool slightly, garnish, and serve.
🏷️ Diet Tags
- Vegetarian Option
- Gluten-Free Option
- Party Appetizer
- Brunch Favorite
🌿 Health Benefits
- High in protein from eggs and cheese.
- Includes vegetables for fiber and vitamins.
- Portable, portion-controlled, and nutrient-dense.
10. FAQs
1. Can I make mini quiches ahead of time?
Yes — assemble and refrigerate before baking. Bake fresh before serving.
2. Can I freeze mini quiches?
Yes, freeze after baking. Reheat in oven until warmed through.
3. What’s the best cheese for mini quiches?
Cheddar, Gruyère, Swiss, or a combination provides great flavor and melt.
4. Can I make them vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetables only and skip meat fillings.
5. Can I use gluten-free pastry?
Absolutely. Use store-bought or homemade gluten-free crust.
11. Final Thoughts
Mini quiches are a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for brunches, parties, or casual gatherings. With endless filling possibilities, they’re both elegant and approachable.
Whip up a batch, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy these golden, creamy bites. Share your favorite flavor combinations in the comments and watch them disappear at any gathering!