If you’re looking for a meal that’s simple, satisfying, and versatile, a crustless quiche is the perfect answer. This Easy and Cheesy Ham Crustless Quiche is a no-fuss dish that’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. By skipping the pastry crust, you cut down on prep time and calories while keeping all the rich, savory flavor that makes quiche so beloved. Packed with diced ham, gooey cheese, and tender eggs, this dish comes together in minutes and bakes up into a golden, fluffy casserole-style quiche that feels indulgent but is surprisingly light. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this crustless quiche is as convenient as it is delicious.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs

• 1 cup whole milk (or 2% for a lighter option)

• 1 cup diced cooked ham

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella work well)

• ½ medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor depth)

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp dried thyme or parsley (optional)

• Butter or nonstick spray for greasing the dish

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish or baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

2. In a medium skillet, sauté the chopped onion in a small amount of butter or olive oil until softened and translucent. This step enhances the flavor and ensures the onion blends seamlessly into the quiche.

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, and dried herbs until smooth and well combined.

4. Stir in the diced ham, sautéed onions, and shredded cheese, reserving a small handful of cheese for topping.

5. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the center and lightly golden on top. A knife inserted into the middle should come out clean.

7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrients (per slice, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 210 kcal

• Protein: 16 g

• Fat: 14 g

• Carbohydrates: 3 g

• Fiber: 0 g

• Calcium: 180 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s everything a busy cook could want: quick, easy, flexible, and packed with flavor. There’s no pastry to fuss with, making it lighter and faster, yet you still get that comforting, custardy texture of a traditional quiche. It’s also endlessly customizable—add veggies, swap cheeses, or adjust the seasonings to match your taste. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so it’s a fantastic option for meal prep or lunchboxes.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Quiche originated in France, with the classic Quiche Lorraine made famous by its custard base of eggs and cream baked in pastry. Over time, variations spread across Europe and the U.S., often filled with ham, bacon, cheese, and vegetables. The crustless quiche is a more modern spin, catering to those who want the flavor without the carbs or heaviness of pastry. This particular version celebrates the simplicity of ham and cheese—a pairing as timeless as it is satisfying—while offering a practical, healthier alternative to the original.

Ingredient Spotlight

Eggs are the star of any quiche, creating a fluffy, custardy base that holds everything together. Ham adds a savory, smoky note and plenty of protein, while cheese brings creaminess and indulgence, with cheddar giving sharpness and Swiss offering a nutty undertone. The onion enhances the overall flavor profile, adding subtle sweetness that balances the richness. Finally, a touch of mustard and herbs elevates the dish, giving it layers of flavor that keep every bite interesting.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This crustless quiche is perfect for make-ahead meals. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a slice in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10 minutes, or microwave it for about 1 minute, though the oven preserves texture better. You can also freeze the whole quiche or individual slices. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen slices in the oven until warmed through.

Common Variations to Try

This recipe is highly adaptable. For a veggie boost, add chopped spinach, broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. Swap ham for cooked bacon, turkey, or smoked salmon for a different protein. Cheese variations are endless—try feta for tanginess, Gruyère for French flair, or pepper jack for spice. If you’re keeping it vegetarian, skip the ham and load up on mushrooms and greens. For a lighter version, use skim milk and reduced-fat cheese.

Pairing Recommendations

This crustless quiche pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables or a side of fruit salad also balance the richness nicely. If serving for brunch, add crusty bread or croissants on the side. For drinks, coffee or tea is a natural choice, while a sparkling mimosa or light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc makes it brunch-party ready.

Health Benefits

This dish is surprisingly nutritious. Eggs provide high-quality protein, vitamins A, D, and B12, while ham adds iron and additional protein. Cheese contributes calcium for strong bones, and onions bring antioxidants. The absence of a crust reduces unnecessary carbs and calories, making it more waistline-friendly while still being filling. With the ability to add vegetables, you can boost the fiber and micronutrient content, making it a balanced meal in one dish.

Conclusion

This Easy and Cheesy Ham Crustless Quiche is proof that you don’t need pastry to enjoy the comfort of quiche. With its savory ham, gooey cheese, and tender eggs, it’s both hearty and wholesome. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste and simple enough for even beginner cooks. Once you try this version, you’ll realize that crust is optional—but flavor is not. This will quickly become a staple in your kitchen for its convenience, taste, and universal appeal.