Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche

I’ve always had a soft spot for dishes that feel fancy but are secretly simple — and this Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche is exactly that. The golden, flaky crust holds a rich and creamy filling of whipped ricotta, tender sautéed spinach, and the mild zing of roasted red peppers. It’s one of those recipes that makes any breakfast, brunch, or lunch feel elevated without demanding much effort in the kitchen.

The first time I baked this, it was for a Sunday brunch with friends. I remember pulling it out of the oven and watching the top puff ever so slightly, golden and bubbling. The aroma of roasted garlic and fresh herbs wrapped the kitchen in warmth, and from the first slice, I knew this one was a keeper. Whether you're hosting or just craving a cozy moment to yourself with a fork and a flaky pie crust, this quiche is a beautifully satisfying choice.

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Why You’ll Love This Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche

• It looks impressive but is actually easy to make.
• Balanced flavors of creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous.
• Perfect for meal prep — it keeps well in the fridge.
• Versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or light dinner.
• Customizable — make it vegetarian, gluten-free, or meat-friendly.

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What Kind of Crust Works Best for Ricotta and Spinach Quiche?

For this Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche, I usually go for a buttery, pre-made shortcrust pastry when I'm short on time — and it never disappoints. But if you’re up for a little kitchen therapy, making your own pie crust from scratch gives you a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth result that’s hard to beat. You can even experiment with a whole wheat crust if you want something a bit heartier.

Blind-baking the crust before filling is crucial to avoid a soggy bottom. I recommend pricking it with a fork, weighing it down with pie weights or beans, and baking until lightly golden. That extra step makes a world of difference.

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Options for Substitutions

You don’t have to stick rigidly to the original filling ingredients — the beauty of quiche is how customizable it can be.

• Ricotta: If you don’t have ricotta, try cottage cheese (blended until smooth) or even crème fraîche for a richer flavor.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach is lovely, but frozen spinach works just as well. Just be sure to drain and squeeze out all the moisture.
• Crust: Swap the traditional pastry for a gluten-free crust, or go crustless altogether if you're keeping things low-carb.
• Cheese: Add some grated parmesan or feta for an extra layer of flavor. A little mozzarella can also make it meltier.
• Vegetables: Roasted bell peppers, caramelized onions, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes all make excellent additions.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme, basil, or dill can add a bright pop — mix and match depending on what you have.

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Ingredients for This Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche

• Pie Crust – The buttery base that holds everything together. Whether homemade or store-bought, it’s essential for structure and texture.
• Ricotta Cheese – Adds a creamy, slightly sweet richness that pairs beautifully with the spinach.
• Eggs – The binding agent; they give the quiche its custard-like consistency.
• Fresh Spinach – Provides earthy flavor and a vibrant green contrast. Can be swapped with frozen spinach (well-drained).
• Garlic – Just a clove or two enhances the depth of flavor without overpowering.
• Roasted Red Peppers – These add a hint of sweetness and a pop of color in every bite.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Brings a salty, umami punch that rounds out the creamy ricotta.
• Milk or Cream – Loosens up the egg mixture and ensures a silky, luscious filling.
• Nutmeg – A pinch goes a long way to lift the flavors and add subtle warmth.
• Salt and Black Pepper – To season the mixture perfectly and balance all the ingredients.

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Step 1: Prepare the Crust

If using a store-bought crust, let it thaw slightly, then gently press it into your tart or pie pan. Trim any excess edges and prick the bottom with a fork. Blind bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes, until just starting to turn golden. Set aside to cool.

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Step 2: Sauté the Spinach and Garlic

In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle a bit of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted (about 2–3 minutes). If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s fully thawed and squeezed dry before adding it to the pan. Set aside to cool slightly.

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Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, ricotta, grated parmesan, milk or cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

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Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Fold in the sautéed spinach and chopped roasted red peppers into the egg and cheese mixture. Stir gently to evenly distribute the vegetables throughout the filling.

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Step 5: Fill the Crust and Bake

Pour the filling into your pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow the custard to firm up.

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How Long to Cook the Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche

Once your filling is in the pre-baked crust, the quiche bakes at 375°F (190°C) for 35 to 40 minutes. The top should be lightly golden, and the center should no longer jiggle when gently shaken. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes after baking — this allows the custard to finish setting and makes slicing much easier.

If you're baking from chilled or using a deeper pie dish, you may need an additional 5–10 minutes. Always check for doneness with a knife inserted into the center — it should come out clean.

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Tips for Perfect Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche

• Blind bake the crust – Don’t skip this! It prevents a soggy bottom and gives you a crisp, flaky base.
• Drain the spinach well – Especially if you’re using frozen spinach. Too much moisture can make the filling watery.
• Use room temperature ingredients – Eggs and ricotta blend more smoothly and bake more evenly when not cold.
• Let it rest before slicing – Just like lasagna, quiche needs time to settle. This keeps the slices neat and holds the structure.
• Customize with confidence – Don’t be afraid to mix in other veggies, cheeses, or herbs. Just keep the moisture levels in mind.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the blind bake: It might seem optional, but going straight into baking with raw crust will likely leave you with a soggy, undercooked bottom.
• Using watery spinach: Whether fresh or frozen, make sure it’s thoroughly drained — excess moisture will ruin the custard texture.
• Overbaking: Too much time in the oven can make the filling rubbery and the crust overly dry. Watch closely toward the end.
• Not seasoning enough: Eggs and ricotta are mild — don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to bring out the flavor.
• Filling the crust too high: Leave a little space at the top to avoid spillover in the oven.

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What to Serve With Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche?

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the quiche beautifully.

Crispy Bacon or Pancetta

For meat lovers, a few strips of crispy bacon or pancetta on the side add savory contrast.

Rustic Toast or Sourdough

A thick slice of toast — especially sourdough or seeded bread — is perfect for scooping up bites of the creamy filling.

Cherry Tomato Confit

Slow-roasted cherry tomatoes with olive oil and herbs bring a burst of sweetness and acidity.

Cheese & Fruit Platter

Serve alongside a light platter with fresh berries, grapes, and a few wedges of cheese like brie or goat cheese.

Freshly Squeezed Juice or Mimosas

If you’re serving it for brunch, citrusy drinks help cut the richness and brighten the meal.

Chilled Gazpacho

A refreshing soup like gazpacho or cucumber yogurt soup adds contrast and elegance to a summer spread.

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Storage Instructions

This Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Let the quiche cool completely, then cover tightly or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil or use freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.
• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave. This keeps the crust crispy and the filling creamy.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (1 slice, based on 8 slices total)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 370mg

These values are estimates and may vary depending on your exact ingredients and crust type.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to prevent a soggy quiche crust?

Blind baking the crust before adding the filling is essential. Prick it with a fork, use pie weights, and bake until just golden — this prevents moisture from soaking through.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s fully thawed and squeezed dry to eliminate any extra water that could affect the custard.

Is it okay to make this quiche ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it a day in advance, then reheat slices in the oven before serving. It’s even delicious served cold or at room temperature.

Can I make it crustless?

You can! Grease a pie dish well and pour the filling directly into it. Bake as usual, checking for doneness around the 30–35 minute mark.

What can I use instead of ricotta?

Blended cottage cheese is a great substitute. You can also use mascarpone or crème fraîche for a richer result.

How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?

The center should be set — not jiggly — and a knife inserted into the middle should come out clean. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Can I freeze the whole quiche?

Yes, once fully cooled. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

What’s the best cheese to add if I want extra flavor?

Parmesan, feta, or aged cheddar work beautifully to deepen the flavor. Sprinkle some on top before baking for a golden crust.

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Conclusion

This Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche is one of those rare recipes that feels like a treat but is simple enough to pull together on a weekday. With its velvety ricotta base, vibrant greens, and flaky crust, it hits all the right notes — comfort, elegance, and nourishment. Whether you're serving it for brunch with friends or packing a slice for lunch, this quiche will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

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