Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then this Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche is just what you need. It’s a delightful mix of creamy goat cheese and sweet butternut squash, all nestled in a flaky crust. Perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy family dinner, this quiche is not only delicious but also visually stunning!

Every bite of this quiche reminds me of autumn gatherings and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. It’s versatile enough to be served for any meal, making it an absolute favorite in our home. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have this quiche ready to bake in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it appealing to both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Butternut squash and caramelized onions bring the best of fall into your kitchen.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of rich cheeses and roasted squash will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This quiche uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home. Gather these essentials before we jump into the cooking process.

For the Quiche Base

• 1 each pie crust, rolled and fitted to a 9 pie plate (check my post for tips!)
• ¾ cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

For the Filling

• 4 oz goat cheese
• 1 cup thinly sliced onions (¼ slices) (1-2 medium-small onions)
• ¼ cup white grape juice, apple juice, or vegetable stock (your choice!)
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• ½ tsp thyme
• 1 cup butternut squash, roasted (peeled, sliced or diced)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or other vegetable oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Custard Mixture

• 3 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups whole milk, half-and-half, heavy cream, or a blend
• 1 tsp thyme (fresh leaves or dried)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper, to taste
• ⅛ tsp nutmeg (preferably freshly grated)

Variations

One of the great things about this quiche is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations.

• Swap the Cheese: Try feta or ricotta instead of goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra pop of color and nutrients.
• Change the Veggies: Substitute roasted sweet potatoes or zucchini if butternut squash isn’t available.
• Herb Boost: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.

How to Make Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by rolling out your pie crust and fitting it into your pie plate. A good crust is essential as it holds all those lovely fillings together. If you’re using store-bought crusts, don’t worry; they work just fine!

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss your diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness—trust me; you’ll want this step!

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter (or heat olive oil) and add your sliced onions. Cook slowly until they turn golden brown. This process enhances their flavor beautifully. Don’t rush it; patience is key!

Step 4: Combine the Fillings

In a bowl, combine your roasted butternut squash, caramelized onions, mozzarella cheese, goat cheese, thyme, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir gently so you don’t break up the squash too much—it should stay chunky!

Step 5: Whisk the Custard Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined. This will create a rich custard that binds your filling together.

Step 6: Assemble the Quiche

Pour your filling mixture into the prepared pie crust evenly. Then drizzle the egg mixture over everything gently. It’s important that all ingredients are well distributed so every slice has that perfect blend of flavors!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until set in the center and golden on top. The delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their first slice.

And there you have it! A beautiful Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche

Making a quiche might seem daunting, but with a few handy tips, you’ll be turning out perfect, golden slices in no time!

• Use a chilled crust: Starting with a cold pie crust helps it maintain its shape during baking. This reduces the risk of shrinking and ensures a flaky texture.
• Caramelize your onions slowly: Taking your time to caramelize the onions brings out their natural sweetness, which adds depth to the quiche’s flavor. Aim for a low heat and patience!
• Roast the butternut squash: Roasting intensifies the sweetness of the squash and helps it keep its shape in the quiche. Just toss it with a bit of oil and season before popping it in the oven!
• Don’t overbeat the eggs: Mixing your eggs too vigorously can incorporate air into the custard, leading to a spongy texture. A gentle whisk until just combined is all you need.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the quiche to cool for about 10-15 minutes after baking helps set the filling. This makes slicing easier and improves the overall texture.

How to Serve Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche

This quiche not only looks stunning but also tastes divine! It’s perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy dinners. Here are some delightful presentation ideas that will make your dish shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh thyme or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to each slice.
• Microgreens: These delicate greens provide an elegant touch and enhance flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Crème fraîche or yogurt drizzle: A light drizzle of crème fraîche or plant-based yogurt offers creaminess that complements the savory filling perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens dressed in a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich quiche.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots add color and nutrition while echoing the flavors in your quiche.
• Fruit Salad: A bright fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or citrus can balance out the savory flavors with their sweetness.
• Herbed Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes tossed with herbs like rosemary or thyme make for a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Enjoy serving this delectable Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche at your next gathering! It’s sure to be a hit among family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, making your brunch or dinner planning a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the quiche to cool completely before storing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the quiche cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful quiche recipe.

Can I substitute goat cheese in the Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche?

Absolutely! You can use feta cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I know when the Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche is done baking?

The quiche is done when the edges are set, and it’s slightly puffed in the center. A knife inserted should come out clean.

Can I make this Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free pie crust instead of regular pastry crust.

Final Thoughts

This Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese Quiche is truly a comforting dish that captures the essence of fall flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy brunch or enjoying it for dinner during a busy weeknight, it’s sure to be a hit! I hope you find joy in making this recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!