As the crisp autumn air fills the kitchen, I can hardly resist the comforting aroma of roasting butternut squash mingling with fragrant sage. This cozy Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche invites you to celebrate the season’s bounty in every bite. With its creamy filling, flaky crust, and a combination that’s both vegetarian and delightfully satisfying, this dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or as a wonderful make-ahead meal. You’ll appreciate how effortlessly it comes together, making it a stress-free option for your next get-together. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase the rich flavors of fall while providing nourishment that’ll warm both your heart and belly. So, are you ready to dive into the world of seasonal delicacies with me?
Why is this quiche a must-try?
Unforgettable flavor: The creamy roasted butternut squash blends beautifully with the aromatic sage, creating a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.
Versatile delight: Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this quiche fits seamlessly into any meal.
Make-ahead magic: Prepare it in advance, making entertaining effortless while keeping your guests satisfied.
Nutrient-packed: Loaded with vibrant veggies, including fiber-rich butternut squash, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious. Plus, consider pairing it with a refreshing salad or a side of fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal.
Crispy perfection: The flaky, buttery crust encases a rich custard, offering a delightful mix of textures with every bite. Elevate your dining experience further by trying it alongside my Sage Brown Butter for a unique twist!
Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche Ingredients
For the Filling
• Butternut Squash – Roast until caramelized for a sweet and velvety texture that enhances your quiche.
• Sage – Adds an earthy, slightly peppery flavor; feel free to substitute with rosemary or thyme for variety.
• Cheese (Gruyère preferred) – Brings richness and creaminess; Swiss cheese is a milder option, while aged cheddar offers a sharper taste.
• Eggs – Essential for creating a creamy custard that binds the filling beautifully.
• Cream or Milk – Use whole milk or heavy cream to add a luscious richness to your quiche.
For the Crust
• Pie Crust – A homemade crust ensures the best texture; pre-baking avoids sogginess, but store-bought can save time.
By incorporating these key ingredients, your Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche will capture the essence of autumn, making it a showstopper for any gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that your Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche bakes evenly, creating a golden-brown crust while allowing the filling to set perfectly. Set a timer for later to keep track of the baking time.
Step 2: Prepare Pie Crust
If you’re making a homemade crust, combine cold butter or shortening with flour in a mixing bowl until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes, then roll it out and fit it into a pie dish. Blind bake for 15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden, to prevent a soggy quiche.
Step 3: Roast Squash
While the crust bakes, prepare the butternut squash. Cut it into cubes and toss them in a drizzle of olive oil, spreading them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized, enhancing the sweetness and flavor for your quiche.
Step 4: Sauté Onions
In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add finely chopped onions. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they turn translucent and fragrant. Once softened, combine the sautéed onions with the roasted butternut squash in a bowl, allowing their flavors to meld.
Step 5: Make Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and cream or milk until well combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Fold in your sautéed vegetables and cheese, ensuring the savory flavors are evenly distributed throughout the custard for the perfect quiche filling.
Step 6: Assemble Quiche
Carefully pour the custard filling into the pre-baked pie crust, ensuring even coverage. If desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top to create a delightful golden layer during baking. This layer will enhance the flavor, adding an inviting richness to your Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche.
Step 7: Bake
Place the assembled quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is set and the top is slightly golden and puffed. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning while the kitchen fills with delicious aromas.
Step 8: Cool
Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack. This cooling period is essential for easy slicing, allowing the custard to set further. Afterward, slice into wedges and enjoy your delicious Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche warm or at room temperature.
What to Serve with Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche
Embrace the warmth of autumn by pairing your quiche with delightful sides that enhance its cozy flavors.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh, tangy salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness, offering a light and refreshing balance.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: Roasted or fried, these crispy potatoes provide a satisfying crunch that complements the soft quiche perfectly.
- Apple Chutney: A sweet and spicy apple chutney creates an exquisite contrast, enhancing the natural sweetness of the squash.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: Serve with a small bowl for dipping—its comforting warmth enriches the overall meal experience.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Lightly seasoned and warm, they add a delightful texture contrast to the quiche’s creamy filling.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing bubbles and a hint of citrus cleanse the palate, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and slight crispness provide an earthy counterpoint, grounding your dish with depth.
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins: For a sweet ending, these muffins echo autumn flavors and bring a comforting touch to your meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can roast the butternut squash and sauté the onions up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble. For the complete quiche, you can prepare it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain its freshness. When ready to serve, bake the quiche from the fridge; it may need an extra few minutes in the oven to ensure a golden-brown top and set filling. This way, you can enjoy delicious homemade quiche with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche
Fridge: Store your baked quiche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays fresh while keeping those delicious flavors intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled quiche tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the quiche in the fridge overnight and then warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. This helps preserve the texture of the Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can also prepare the quiche filling and freeze it separately. Just assemble and bake it fresh later for an effortless meal.
Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche Variations
Feel free to personalize your cozy quiche with these delightful twists that will surprise your taste buds!
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Herb Swap: Swap sage for fresh rosemary or thyme to change the flavor profile entirely. Each herb brings its own unique aroma and taste.
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Add Protein: Incorporate crispy bacon or pancetta for a savory, smoky flavor that elevates the dish. This addition pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the squash.
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Veggie Boost: Mix in sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrition. These greens create a colorful presentation while enhancing the quiche’s wholesomeness.
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Crustless Option: For a gluten-free twist, pour the filling into a greased pie dish without the crust and bake until set. This modification keeps all the delightful flavors without the carbs.
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Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Each cheese will offer a unique taste experience that complements the squash beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling. This will spice up your quiche and create a warming sensation with every bite.
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Nutty Texture: Toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture contrast. Not only do they add a lovely nuttiness, but they also enhance the overall dish complexity.
While you’re exploring variations, don’t forget to try my Squash Casserole Warm for another delightful autumn-inspired dish! Each option offers a opportunity to play with flavors and make this recipe uniquely yours.
Expert Tips for Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche
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Pre-Bake Crust: Always blind bake your pie crust until lightly golden to prevent a soggy bottom while baking the quiche.
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Cool Before Slicing: Let the quiche cool for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps the custard set and allows for cleaner, more beautiful slices.
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Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh sage enhances the flavor profile beautifully. If using dried herbs, remember to use them sparingly, as they can be more concentrated.
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Extra Creaminess: For an even richer filling, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche into the custard mix.
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Seasoning Matters: Taste your custard mixture before pouring it into the crust. Properly seasoning will elevate the overall magic of the Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche.
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Perfect Serving: Pair with a light salad or fresh fruit to complement the savory flavors of your quiche, making it a well-rounded dish for gatherings.
Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the perfect butternut squash?
Absolutely! Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size, with a smooth, tan exterior. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes. The skin should be firm, and the stem should look fresh rather than dried out, indicating ripeness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store your baked quiche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh and delicious, make sure it’s well-wrapped to protect against any odor absorption.
Can I freeze Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche?
Certainly! To freeze, first cool the quiche completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
What should I do if my quiche turns out soggy?
No worries! If your quiche is soggy, make sure to pre-bake the pie crust until it’s lightly golden before adding the filling. Blind baking for about 15 minutes often helps achieve that desired crispiness to hold up against the custard.
Is this quiche suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche is vegetarian-friendly. If you have gluten sensitivities, you can use a gluten-free pie crust. Also, consider substituting heavy cream with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free option. Always check for any potential nut or dairy allergies when serving to others.
How can I incorporate more vegetables into my quiche?
Very easy! You can toss in sautéed vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers to boost nutrition. Just make sure to remove excess moisture from vegetables like spinach before adding them to the filling, which helps prevent the quiche from becoming watery.
Delicious Butternut Squash & Sage Quiche for Cozy Brunches
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If making a homemade crust, combine cold butter or shortening with flour until resembling coarse crumbs, then chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough, fit it into a pie dish and blind bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Cut butternut squash into cubes, toss with olive oil, and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- Sauté finely chopped onions in butter over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until translucent.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and cream or milk, season with salt and pepper, then fold in vegetables and cheese.
- Pour custard filling into the pre-baked pie crust and, if desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and top is golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
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