The Turkey Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is a delicious intersection of comfort food and modern cuisine, a dish that honors seasonal flavors while staying versatile enough to enjoy year-round. This quiche is inspired by the traditions of family meals and the resourcefulness of using leftovers to create something extraordinary. It marries lean protein, nutrient-packed vegetables, and the irresistible richness of aged cheddar—all enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether it’s served during a relaxed brunch or as a light lunch, this recipe is a celebration of simplicity and culinary finesse.
Quiches have long been associated with French cuisine, but their origins go back to Germany’s medieval period. The word “quiche” stems from the German word “kuchen,” meaning “cake.” Over time, the dish evolved under French influence, becoming a beloved savory pie with a custard-based filling. Traditionally featuring cream, eggs, and bacon (as in the classic Quiche Lorraine), modern adaptations have allowed for endless creativity, incorporating ingredients that reflect varying culinary tastes and dietary needs. The Turkey Broccoli Cheddar Quiche is a perfect example of how this adaptable dish can pay homage to its origins while embracing contemporary cooking.
This particular recipe is inspired by the desire to seamlessly transition holiday flavors into everyday meals. Turkey, often the centerpiece of festive celebrations like Thanksgiving, finds a new home in this quiche. Utilizing leftover turkey breast not only adds convenience but also reduces food waste—a cornerstone of sustainable cooking practices. By combining turkey with broccoli, the dish gains vibrant texture and nutritional value. Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, and its slight earthiness perfectly balances the savory notes of turkey and cheddar.
Cheddar cheese, especially when aged, is the star ingredient that ties the flavors together in this quiche. Its sharp, nutty taste, combined with its meltability, creates an indulgent yet approachable flavor profile. Meanwhile, the custard element—composed of eggs and milk—provides the silky backdrop to the more pronounced ingredients, ensuring every bite is well-rounded and satisfying.
The choice to use a pre-made crust adds convenience, catering to busy lifestyles while maintaining the elegance of a homemade meal. That said, home bakers can prepare their own crust for a more personalized touch. Additionally, fresh ingredients like grated nutmeg and freshly ground black pepper elevate the overall flavor, ensuring the dish feels both comforting and refined.
This recipe also carries a sentimental element—quiche has always been a beloved staple at my family gatherings. Incorporating turkey was a way of marrying tradition with a modern sensibility. The idea for this dish came after a post-holiday meal, where an abundance of turkey meant finding creative and sustainable ways to enjoy leftovers. For me, this quiche represents the best of cooking: resourcefulness, flavor, and the ability to turn ingredients into something greater than the sum of their parts.
Ultimately, the Turkey Broccoli Cheddar Quiche offers the best of both worlds: a nod to the rustic, homemade roots of the quiche and a celebration of modern tastes and mindful cooking. This dish not only delights the palate but brings people together, a powerful reminder of why food continues to be central to the stories we share.
Turkey Broccoli Cheddar Quiche
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 9-inch pre-made pie crust or homemade if desired
Filling
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets steamed until tender
- 1 cup aged cheddar cheese grated
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk preferably whole
- 1 pinch nutmeg freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon (affiliate link)salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Line a 9-inch pie dish with the pre-made pie crust, pressing it gently into the edges. Trim any excess crust. Prick the base with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined and smooth. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper, then set aside.
- Layer the cooked turkey, broccoli, and grated cheddar into the pie crust evenly.
- Pour the egg mixture over the filling, ensuring it covers evenly and reaches all areas.
- Carefully transfer the dish into the oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the quiche is golden on top and set in the center. A slight wobble is acceptable as it will firm up as it cools.
- Allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
