Delia Smith Broccoli Quiche

This Delia Smith broccoli quiche is a classic savoury bake with a crisp pastry base and a soft, creamy filling studded with tender broccoli and cheese. The texture is light yet rich, with a gentle savoury flavour that works beautifully for lunch, supper, or entertaining. It is straightforward to make, even for beginners, and comes together with simple ingredients. From start to finish, allow about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Ingredients

For the pastry

175g plain flour
75g cold butter, cut into small cubes
2 to 3 tablespoons cold water

For the filling

250g broccoli florets
3 large eggs
200ml double cream
100g mature Cheddar cheese, grated
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
A pinch of nutmeg

How to Make Delia Smith Broccoli Quiche

Prepare the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C or 180°C fan. Place a shelf in the middle of the oven so the quiche cooks evenly and sets properly.
Make the pastry: Rub the butter into the flour until it looks like fine breadcrumbs. Add the cold water a little at a time and bring together into a smooth dough.
Blind bake: Roll out the pastry and line a greased 23cm tart tin. Prick the base, line with parchment, and fill with baking beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the beans and bake for 5 more minutes.
Prepare the filling: Cook the broccoli briefly in boiling salted water, then drain thoroughly. Beat the eggs with the cream, cheese, seasoning, and nutmeg.
Assemble and bake: Spread the broccoli over the pastry case and pour over the egg mixture. Bake for about 30 minutes until just set and lightly golden.
Cool and serve: Let the quiche rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling settle and makes cleaner slices.

Tips for the Best Broccoli Quiche

How do I avoid a soggy base?

Blind baking the pastry and draining the broccoli well are key. Any excess moisture will soften the base.

Can I make this quiche ahead of time?

Yes, it can be baked a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently or serve at room temperature.

What cheese works best?

Mature Cheddar gives the strongest flavour, but Gruyère or a mix of cheeses also works well.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad
Add buttered new potatoes on the side
Enjoy cold as part of a picnic spread

Storage

Room temperature

The quiche can sit out for up to 4 hours, making it ideal for lunches and gatherings.

Refrigerator

Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving, or reheat gently.

Freezing

Freeze baked and cooled quiche for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat until hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 380 kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 26g
Saturated fat: 15g
Sodium: 420mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make this quiche without cream?

Yes, you can replace the cream with full-fat milk, but the filling will be slightly less rich.

What size tin should I use for broccoli quiche?

A 23cm loose-bottomed tart tin gives the best depth and even baking.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, leeks, spinach, or mushrooms work well. Cook them first to remove excess moisture.

Is broccoli quiche good served cold?

Yes, it tastes excellent cold, which makes it perfect for picnics and packed lunches.