Butternut Squash and Caramelized Onion Quiche: A Cozy, Flavorful Delight

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Imagine the smell of roasted butternut squash mixed with the sweet scent of caramelized onions filling your kitchen. It’s that perfect balance of warmth, richness, and comfort. Now imagine these flavorful ingredients nestled in a golden, flaky pie crust, all coming together to create the ultimate quiche. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a weekend brunch, or simply need something cozy to enjoy on a cold afternoon, this Butternut Squash & Caramelized Onion Quiche is exactly what you need.

Butternut squash, with its earthy sweetness, pairs beautifully with the deep, rich flavor of caramelized onions. Together, they create a symphony of tastes that you won’t want to miss. Adding a creamy, tangy filling to the mix only elevates the dish, making it a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Let’s walk through how you can recreate this amazing dish in your own kitchen. I’ll guide you step by step, offering helpful tips along the way, so you can enjoy a quiche that’s both easy to make and delicious to eat.

Why Choose Butternut Squash & Caramelized Onion Quiche?

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

Butternut Squash & Caramelized Onion Quiche isn’t just a treat for your taste buds – it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are some reasons why this quiche should be on your list of go-to recipes:

• Brunch Perfection: It’s the ideal dish for a cozy weekend brunch. The comforting flavors of squash and onions, combined with a rich, custardy filling, are sure to impress your guests.
• Weeknight Dinner: Looking for a quick and easy dinner that still feels like a special occasion? This quiche is perfect for those busy nights when you need something satisfying, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish holds up well in the fridge and can even be frozen for later. It’s great for meal prepping, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.

Seasonal Ingredients at Their Best

The beauty of this quiche is that it highlights seasonal produce at its peak. Butternut squash is a fall favorite, with its smooth texture and naturally sweet flavor. Caramelized onions bring out a depth of flavor that complements the squash beautifully, creating a balanced and hearty dish.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only does this quiche taste amazing, but it also packs in some nutritional benefits:

• Butternut Squash: A powerhouse of vitamins A and C, butternut squash also provides a good dose of fiber to keep you feeling full longer.
• Feta Cheese: Rich in calcium, feta cheese also brings a creamy, tangy note to the quiche.
• Eggs and Milk: These ingredients provide high-quality protein, while the whole milk and heavy cream give the quiche a smooth, creamy texture.

By combining these wholesome ingredients, you’re not just indulging in a delicious dish – you’re also nourishing your body.

Ingredients for the Perfect Quiche

To make a Butternut Squash & Caramelized Onion Quiche, you don’t need an extensive shopping list. The ingredients are simple yet full of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients	Amount	Notes
Butternut Squash, peeled and diced	2 pounds (about 2-½ cups)	Roast until tender and caramelized
Olive Oil	3 tablespoons	Used for roasting squash and cooking onions
Coarse Kosher Salt	To taste	For seasoning
Onions (peeled, halved, sliced)	3 large (about 3 pounds)	Caramelize for flavor
Balsamic Vinegar	1 tablespoon	Adds depth and sweetness
Prepared Pie Crust	1 (9-inch)	Use spelt or butter
Eggs	2 large	Essential for quiche base
Whole Milk	½ cup (115g)	For a creamy filling
Heavy Cream	¼ cup (55g)	Adds richness to the quiche
Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice	2 teaspoons	Balances the richness
Freshly Ground Black Pepper	1 teaspoon	For flavor enhancement
Crumbled Feta Cheese	½ cup (60g)	Adds tang and creaminess
Green Onions (sliced)	2	For freshness and garnish
Fresh Thyme Leaves	1 teaspoon	Fresh herb flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions for Butternut Squash & Caramelized Onion Quiche

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. Don’t worry – the steps are simple, and with a bit of patience, you’ll have a quiche that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

1. Preparing the Squash and Onions

Roast the Butternut Squash

• Preheat your oven to 400ºF and place the racks in the lower and middle positions of your oven.
• Toss the butternut squash cubes in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with a generous pinch of kosher salt. Arrange the squash in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
• Roast for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even caramelization. The squash is ready when it’s tender and has a golden-brown edge.
• Once roasted, remove from the oven and set aside to cool to room temperature.

Caramelize the Onions

• Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
• Add the onions and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they soften evenly.
• Add a pinch of salt and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the onions cook undisturbed for 20 minutes.
• Stir occasionally for the next 15 minutes, checking every 5 minutes until the onions become soft and golden-brown.
• Add balsamic vinegar and cook for an additional 5 minutes. For jammy onions, feel free to continue cooking for 10-15 minutes longer.

2. Assembling the Quiche

Prepare the Quiche Filling

• Preheat your oven to 375ºF.
• In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. This forms the base for your creamy quiche filling.
• Stir in the crumbled feta, green onions, and fresh thyme leaves.

Combine the Squash, Onions, and Filling

• Spread the roasted squash and caramelized onions evenly across the prepared pie crust.
• Pour the quiche filling over the squash and onions, ensuring that everything is well-coated.

Bake the Quiche

• Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the quiche is golden and the center is set. You can test this by inserting a knife into the center – it should come out clean.
• Let the quiche cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfecting Your Quiche

A few tips can make a big difference when making your Butternut Squash & Caramelized Onion Quiche. Let’s dive into some helpful suggestions that will ensure your quiche turns out perfect every time:  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe

Crust Tips

• Blind Bake the Crust: To prevent the crust from getting soggy, bake it for 5-10 minutes before adding the filling. This will help it stay crisp even after baking.
• Use a Flaky Pie Crust: Opt for a buttery or spelt crust for the best texture. Both types of crusts bring a richness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling.

Onion Caramelization

• Be Patient: Caramelizing onions is a slow process. Don’t rush it! The longer you cook them on low heat, the more flavorful and sweet they’ll become.

Flavor Variations

• Cheese Substitutes: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Goat cheese, sharp cheddar, or Gruyère can all add their own twist to the quiche.
• Extra Greens: For a healthier version, add spinach, kale, or Swiss chard to the quiche. They pair beautifully with the squash and onions.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Prep the Squash and Onions: You can roast the squash and caramelize the onions a day in advance, making the quiche assembly quicker when you’re ready to bake.
• Freezing: If you have leftovers, this quiche freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, simply bake in a 350ºF oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of squash for this quiche?

Absolutely! You can swap out the butternut squash for other squashes like acorn, kabocha, or pumpkin. However, butternut squash provides a naturally sweet, creamy texture that is ideal for quiche.

Can I make this quiche without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version. Alternatively, use a plant-based cheese substitute to keep the flavor and texture.

How do I know when the quiche is fully baked?

A fully baked quiche will have a golden-brown top, and the center will no longer jiggle. You can also test it by inserting a knife into the center – it should come out clean.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Comfort Food

Butternut Squash & Caramelized Onion Quiche is a dish that brings joy to any meal. With its rich, comforting flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s a recipe that you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this quiche will surely become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Ready to make your own Butternut Squash & Caramelized Onion Quiche? Follow the steps, embrace the process, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite!

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