Crustless asparagus quiche is an effortless yet elegant dish that brings together the fresh, earthy flavors of asparagus with a creamy, custard-like texture. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this quiche is not only delicious but also a nutritious, low-carb, and a gluten-free option. Without the added heaviness of a traditional crust, the flavors of the asparagus and cheese shine through beautifully, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a gathering or as a make-ahead meal for busy weekdays, this quiche is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crustless asparagus quiche is an elegant, nutritious, and flavorful dish that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: Ideal for those following a low-carb lifestyle or anyone with gluten sensitivities.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and a hassle-free process make this quiche a go-to dish.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit different preferences and dietary needs.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and store it for a quick and delicious meal.
- Perfect Texture: The blend of eggs, milk, and cheese results in a creamy, custard-like consistency.
Benefits of a Crustless Asparagus Quiche
A crustless asparagus quiche is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a rich, flavorful meal without the extra carbohydrates and calories that come with a traditional pastry crust. By removing the crust, the quiche becomes a naturally gluten-free option, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Additionally, a crustless asparagus quiche is easier to prepare since it eliminates the need to roll, pre-bake, or chill a dough, significantly reducing preparation time. The absence of a crust allows the flavors of the fresh asparagus, cheese, and custard to shine through, creating a light yet satisfying dish that is perfect for any time of day. 
This type of quiche is also more digestible for individuals who have difficulty processing grains, offering a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste or texture. Whether served warm or at room temperature, a crustless asparagus quiche remains a versatile and elegant meal that pairs well with various side dishes, making it a staple in any home kitchen.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You Need For A Crustless Asparagus Quiche
Base Ingredients
- 12 fresh asparagus spears (about 200g), trimmed and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces
- 6 large eggs (approx. 300g)
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk (or a combination of ¾ cup (180ml) skim milk and ¼ cup (60ml) half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup (100g) shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère, mozzarella, or a blend)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the dish)
Optional Add-ins
- ½ cup (75g) diced ham
- ¼ cup (40g) crumbled cooked bacon
- ½ cup (50g) sautéed mushrooms
- 1 cup (30g) fresh spinach leaves
Step-by-Step Guide To Make Crustless Asparagus Quiche
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish with butter.
- Prepare the Asparagus: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Mix the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, thyme, white pepper, and salt until smooth.
- Assemble the Quiche: Evenly distribute the asparagus and cheese in the prepared pie dish. Add any optional ingredients (ham, bacon, spinach, mushrooms). Pour the egg mixture over the fillings.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Variations and Customizations
Cheese Variations
Gruyère & Parmesan Blend
- Substitutes: ¾ cup (75g) Gruyère + ¼ cup (25g) Parmesan
- Flavor Profile: Nutty, rich, and deeply savory.
- Method: Use this blend instead of Swiss cheese and mix into the filling as usual.
Mozzarella & Feta
- Substitutes: ½ cup (50g) mozzarella + ½ cup (50g) feta
- Flavor Profile: Creamy with a slight tang.
- Method: Sprinkle feta on top before baking for extra texture.
Protein Additions
Ham & Bacon
- Substitutes: Replace ½ cup (100g) of asparagus with ½ cup (75g) diced ham or ¼ cup (40g) crumbled bacon.
- Method: Mix with the cheese and asparagus before adding the egg mixture.
Vegetable Additions
Spinach & Mushroom
- Substitutes: Replace ¼ cup (50g) of asparagus with 1 cup (30g) fresh spinach and ½ cup (50g) sautéed mushrooms.
- Method: Sauté mushrooms until soft before adding to the quiche; layer spinach directly with asparagus.
Dairy-Free Option
- Substitutes: Almond milk (240ml) + dairy-free cheese (100g)
- Method: Mix as usual; may need an extra 5 minutes of baking.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
FAQ
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, this quiche can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before serving.
Can I freeze a crustless quiche?
Absolutely! Allow the quiche to cool completely, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
What is the best cheese for a crustless quiche?
Swiss cheese is a great option, but you can also use Gruyère, cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
How do I prevent my quiche from being watery?
To avoid a watery quiche, make sure to fully cook any vegetables before adding them to the mixture, as excess moisture can affect the texture.
Can I use egg substitutes?
Yes, you can use liquid egg substitutes or a mix of flaxseed and water for a vegan alternative, but the texture may be slightly different.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this crustless asparagus quiche is completely gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat-based ingredients.
