A warm, savory dish that blends the richness of sausage with the earthiness of fresh spinach, this Sausage Spinach Quiche is a comforting classic perfect for any meal. Whether served hot from the oven or enjoyed at room temperature, each bite delivers creamy, cheesy goodness balanced with vibrant greens and flavorful sausage, making it an irresistible choice for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
- 8 ounces ground breakfast sausage
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half (or whole milk)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan. Evenly spread the cooked sausage and spinach mixture over the crust.
- Sprinkle Swiss cheese and mozzarella cheese on top of the sausage and spinach.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the filling.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 340 per serving
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 580mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 11g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 17g
The Origins of Sausage Spinach Quiche
The Sausage Spinach Quiche is an evolution of the traditional French quiche, which dates back to the medieval German kingdom of Lothringen, later known as Lorraine. By adding hearty sausage and fresh spinach, the classic quiche Lorraine transforms into a flavorful, protein-rich dish that’s especially popular in American kitchens. This adaptation showcases how timeless European recipes can be reimagined to suit modern tastes and local ingredients.
Perfect for Breakfast and Beyond
While quiches are often thought of as breakfast or brunch fare, this Sausage Spinach Quiche proves its versatility by being equally suitable for lunch or dinner. Its rich filling of eggs, cheese, and sausage offers enough heartiness for a midday meal or evening supper, making it a reliable choice when you need a satisfying, all-in-one dish.
A Harmony of Flavors
The savory notes of ground sausage blend beautifully with the gentle earthiness of fresh spinach. Meanwhile, the creamy egg mixture binds everything together, complemented by the nuttiness of Swiss cheese and the mild stretchiness of mozzarella. Every slice delivers a balanced bite, where no single ingredient overpowers the others.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients
Beyond its comforting flavor, this quiche offers nutritional value. Eggs bring high-quality protein and essential vitamins, while spinach is a powerhouse of iron and folate. The addition of sausage adds robust flavor and protein, ensuring that this dish not only tastes good but also helps fuel the body throughout the day.
The Importance of Cheese Choice
Swiss cheese contributes a delicate nuttiness that deepens the quiche’s flavor profile, while mozzarella offers creaminess and a satisfying melt. The combination makes the filling rich without being overwhelmingly heavy, creating a custardy interior that stays light and enjoyable.
Why Use Half-and-Half
Half-and-half, a blend of whole milk and cream, is often used in quiches to achieve a silky texture. It gives the filling enough body to hold together while keeping it creamy and tender. Substituting with just milk can result in a thinner consistency, whereas using only cream might make it overly rich.
The Role of the Pie Crust
The pie crust provides a flaky, buttery base that contrasts the soft filling. It keeps the quiche’s structure intact and offers a satisfying crunch in every bite. Using a pre-made crust saves time, while making your own allows for creative touches like adding herbs or cheese to the dough.
Customization Opportunities
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. You could swap the sausage for turkey sausage or even vegetarian sausage alternatives. Adding mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions can bring new dimensions of flavor. The basic recipe serves as a canvas for countless variations.
Ideal for Meal Prep
This quiche holds up wonderfully when made ahead of time. It can be refrigerated for a few days or even frozen, then reheated when needed. That makes it perfect for busy weeks, offering a quick, nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Presentation and Serving Tips
Serving the quiche slightly warm or at room temperature allows the flavors to shine. A garnish of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds color and freshness, making it look as appetizing as it tastes. Pair it with a simple green salad for a balanced, elegant meal.
Brunch Favorite
Sausage Spinach Quiche is a staple on brunch menus, thanks to its comforting flavor and visual appeal. It can be made in advance, freeing up time for hosts to enjoy their gathering, and it pairs beautifully with fruit, baked goods, and coffee or tea.
Appeal Across Ages
This quiche is loved by both kids and adults. The mild mozzarella and Swiss cheese combination keeps the flavor approachable, while the sausage adds just enough savory depth to satisfy more mature palates. It’s an ideal family meal that bridges generational tastes.
Balanced Comfort Food
While quiche feels indulgent, the presence of spinach and eggs keeps it relatively balanced. It’s a dish that feels comforting without being overly heavy, striking the perfect midpoint between richness and nutrition, making it a guilt-free pleasure for many.
Quick and Easy Yet Impressive
Despite its gourmet reputation, this quiche comes together with minimal effort. Cooking the sausage and assembling the filling are straightforward tasks, and the oven does the rest. The result is a dish that looks impressive enough for guests yet is easy enough for a weekday meal.
The All-Season Dish
Sausage Spinach Quiche isn’t tied to any season. In colder months, it serves as warm comfort food, while in warmer weather, it’s delightful served with fresh salads and cold drinks. Its adaptability makes it a year-round favorite.
Leftovers That Taste Just as Good
Many dishes lose quality when reheated, but quiche often tastes just as delicious the next day. The flavors have more time to meld together, and a quick warm-up in the oven brings back the freshly baked texture, making leftovers something to look forward to.
Conclusion
Sausage Spinach Quiche is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting, versatile dish that brings people together. With its rich yet balanced flavor profile, ease of preparation, and adaptability, it earns a place in everyday meals and special gatherings alike. Whether served at breakfast, brunch, or dinner, it proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special.