Easy Crab Quiche
Craving something savory and luxurious without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further than this delightful Easy Crab Quiche! Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner, this dish strikes the right balance between creamy richness and fresh flavors. With a flaky crust, a rich filling of eggs, crab, and Swiss cheese, and a colorful medley of peppers and green onions, this quiche is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can whip it up in no time.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Easy Crab Quiche is a true crowd-pleaser. It combines the delicate sweetness of crab with the nutty flavor of Swiss cheese, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust. The vibrant addition of sweet red peppers and green onions not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color, making it perfect for any occasion. Furthermore, using a refrigerated pie crust saves time and effort without sacrificing taste, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness in a fraction of the time.
What We’re Using
Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious dish:
- 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chopped sweet red pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup flaked imitation crab meat, chopped
Gear Checklist
Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- 9-inch pie dish: To bake your quiche.
- Mixing bowl: For whisking together the egg mixture.
- Whisk: To ensure a smooth blend of eggs and half-and-half.
- Knife: For chopping vegetables and crab meat.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure your ingredients.
How to Prepare Easy Crab Quiche
Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Crab Quiche:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly baked crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Unroll the refrigerated pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges as desired. You can prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, melt the 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet red pepper and chopped green onions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4: Whisk the Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 3 large eggs, 1 1/2 cups of half-and-half, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until combined.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the sautéed vegetables, 3/4 cup of flaked imitation crab meat, and 1/2 cup of shredded Swiss cheese to the egg mixture. Stir gently to combine.
Step 6: Pour and Top
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded Swiss cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the Easy Crab Quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Smart Substitutions
If you’re looking to customize your Easy Crab Quiche, consider these substitutions:
- Cheese: Swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Crab Meat: Use real crab meat if you prefer, or substitute with cooked shrimp for a delightful twist.
- Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to enhance the veggie content.
- Half-and-Half: Use whole milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This Easy Crab Quiche can easily be adapted to suit your tastes. Feel free to play around with the mix-ins to make it your own! The combination of creamy, cheesy, and flavorful elements makes this dish irresistible. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Pair it with a refreshing salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- To keep the crust from getting too brown, you can cover the edges with foil during baking.
- Don’t skip the cooling step! This helps the quiche set properly and makes slicing easier.
Prep Ahead & Store
For those busy days, you can prepare your Easy Crab Quiche ahead of time:
- Make Ahead: Assemble the quiche but do not bake it. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
- Store Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I freeze the Easy Crab Quiche?
Yes! You can freeze it before baking or after it has been cooked. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, bake from frozen until heated through.
Can I use fresh crab meat?
Absolutely! Fresh crab meat will add a wonderful flavor to the quiche. Just make sure to check for any shell pieces before adding it to the mixture.
How do I know when the quiche is done?
The quiche is done when the center is set and a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean. It should be slightly puffed and golden on top.
What can I serve with my Easy Crab Quiche?
This quiche pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, fresh fruit, or even a light soup. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with Shrimp Fried Rice or a side of Easy Shrimp And Sausage Gumbo Recipe.
Because You Liked This
- Crab Rangoon Eggroll – A crispy delight for crab lovers!
- Shrimp Fried Rice – A quick and easy meal that complements any dish!
- Easy Shrimp And Sausage Gumbo Recipe – A flavorful dish that brings the taste of New Orleans to your table!
See You at the Table
This Easy Crab Quiche is sure to become a favorite in your home. Its combination of flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility make it a winner. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this dish is bound to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor every bite!
Easy Crab Quiche
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly baked crust.
- Step 2: Unroll the refrigerated pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges as desired. You can prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- Step 3: In a skillet, melt the 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet red pepper and chopped green onions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Step 4: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 3 large eggs, 1 1/2 cups of half-and-half, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until combined.
- Step 5: Add the sautéed vegetables, 3/4 cup of flaked imitation crab meat, and 1/2 cup of shredded Swiss cheese to the egg mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Step 6: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded Swiss cheese on top.
- Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Step 8: Allow the Easy Crab Quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- To keep the crust from getting too brown, you can cover the edges with foil during baking.
- Don’t skip the cooling step! This helps the quiche set properly and makes slicing easier.
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or cheese!
