Mini Onion & Cheese Quiches with Farm-Fresh Eggs

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Introduction

These delightful mini quiches showcase the rich flavor of farm-fresh eggs in a buttery shortcrust pastry shell. The combination of sweet caramelized onions and sharp tasty cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors, while the creamy egg custard delivers a light, fluffy texture. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea, these individual quiches are as versatile as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect portion control: Individual servings make them great for gatherings
  • Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared in advance and reheated
  • Customizable: Easily adapt with different cheeses or vegetables
  • Showcases quality eggs: The star ingredient shines through

Ingredients

Pastry Base

  • 4 shortcrust pastry circles (12cm/4.5″ diameter)
  • Butter or oil for greasing

Filling

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium brown onion, finely chopped
  • 4 Pace Farm eggs (or other high-quality eggs)
  • 100ml milk or cream (or combination)
  • 100g grated tasty cheese (cheddar works well)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry Cases

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
  2. Lightly grease 4 individual tart tins or a muffin tin
  3. Line with pastry circles, pressing gently into edges
  4. Prick bases with a fork and blind bake for 10 minutes
  5. Remove weights/paper and bake 2 more minutes until lightly golden

2. Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat
  2. Add chopped onion and cook slowly for 15 minutes until soft and golden
  3. Set aside to cool slightly

3. Prepare the Custard

  1. In a jug, whisk together eggs and milk/cream
  2. Season with salt and pepper
  3. Stir in cooled onions

4. Assemble & Bake

  1. Divide grated cheese between pastry cases
  2. Pour egg mixture over cheese, filling to just below rim
  3. Bake for 20-25 minutes until set and golden
  4. Cool in tins for 5 minutes before removing

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with a simple green salad
  • Perfect for brunch buffets or picnic baskets
  • Delicious at room temperature or reheated
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or chives

Expert Tips

  • For extra flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the custard
  • Make ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance and reheat
  • Freezer-friendly: Freeze baked quiches for up to 1 month
  • Pastry tip: Keep pastry chilled until use for best results

Recipe Variations

  • Add diced ham or bacon for a heartier version
  • Try different cheeses like gruyère or feta
  • Include sautéed mushrooms or spinach
  • For a crustless option, grease ramekins well and bake directly

Conclusion

These mini onion and cheese quiches celebrate the simple pleasure of quality ingredients. The golden pastry, creamy custard, and sweet onion filling create a harmonious bite-sized treat that’s equally at home on a brunch table or packed in a lunchbox. Their versatility and crowd-pleasing nature make them a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation. Whether you’re using farm-fresh eggs or just looking for a reliable quiche recipe, these mini versions deliver on both flavor and convenience.

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