Easy Air Fryer Crustless Steak & Spinach Mini Quiche: Your Go-To Brunch Recipe
Quiche has long been a beloved staple for breakfast and brunch, but its versatility extends far beyond, making it a fantastic option for lunch or even a light dinner with a few well-chosen sides. While traditional quiche boasts a buttery, flaky crust, this particular recipe offers a delightful, healthier alternative: a crustless steak and spinach mini quiche, perfectly cooked in your air fryer. This approach isn’t just about cutting down on carbs; it’s about simplifying the process without sacrificing any of the rich, savory flavor that makes quiche so irresistible. Prepare to make brunch an everyday affair with this incredibly easy and utterly delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Effortless Air Fryer Mini Quiche Recipe
There are countless reasons why this crustless air fryer quiche will become a fast favorite in your kitchen. First and foremost, these adorable mini quiches cook up incredibly quickly and with minimal fuss, thanks to the magic of the air fryer. This means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal, whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch or a quick weeknight dinner. While this recipe focuses on individual mini portions, perfect for a customizable brunch spread or convenient grab-and-go meals, the method can certainly be adapted for a full-sized quiche if you’re feeding a crowd.
The crustless nature of this recipe offers a lighter alternative to traditional quiche, making it a great option for those looking to reduce carb intake or simply prefer a more egg-forward dish. It shares a similar hearty, egg-based texture with a frittata but maintains the distinct creaminess and rich flavor profile of a classic quiche. However, if you’re a fan of a golden, flaky crust, don’t worry! My Air Fryer Quiche With Crust recipe provides all the details you need to achieve a perfect crust (and features a slightly creamier dairy ratio for extra indulgence). The beauty of quiche, whether crustless or with a crust, lies in its adaptability; feel free to swap in your favorite fillings to create a personalized culinary masterpiece.
This particular recipe features a robust combination of tender steak and fresh spinach, creating a filling and incredibly delicious meal. It’s an ingenious way to transform leftover steak from last night’s barbecue or dinner into a brand new, exciting dish. This not only helps reduce food waste but also adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your quiche, proving that delicious meals don’t always require hours of preparation or fresh ingredients from scratch.
Katie’s tip
If you’re pressed for time and craving a savory bite, you can still enjoy a deliciously flaky appetizer by cooking Frozen Mini Quiche in the Air Fryer! It’s a fantastic shortcut for busy days.
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Essential Ingredients for Your Air Fryer Mini Quiche
Crafting these delicious mini quiches requires only a handful of common ingredients, most of which you probably already have on hand. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it to your personal preferences and what’s available in your fridge.
- 4 large eggs: The foundational element of any great quiche, providing structure and richness.
- ⅓ cup milk: Adds creaminess and helps achieve that classic quiche texture.
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard: A secret ingredient for many quiche recipes, Dijon mustard enhances the savory flavors and adds a subtle, tangy depth without being overpowering.
- ½ cup cooked steak, cut into small pieces: Perfect for using up leftovers, the steak adds a hearty, meaty element that makes these mini quiches incredibly satisfying.
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese: Feta brings a wonderful salty tang and a creamy texture that complements the steak and spinach beautifully.
- ¼ cup chopped spinach, well-drained: Fresh spinach adds a touch of earthy greenness and essential nutrients. Draining it well is key to preventing a watery quiche.
- ½ tsp salt (or more to taste): Essential for seasoning the eggs and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- ½ tsp white pepper (or more to taste): Offers a milder, more subtle peppery kick than black pepper, ideal for a creamy egg dish where you don’t want visible flecks.
Special Equipment Note:
For this air fryer quiche recipe, you’ll need some form of oven-safe individual pans that fit comfortably into your air fryer basket. I personally recommend 4 mini tartlet pans, as they give a lovely shape and cook evenly. However, you have several flexible options: you can also use mini pie pans, standard mini tart pans, small ramekins, individual silicone muffin cups (you might need 6-8 of these depending on size, like these silicone muffin cups), or even a small springform pan if you’re making a larger, single quiche. The key is to ensure they are oven-safe and fit without overcrowding your air fryer for optimal airflow and even cooking.
Ingredient Notes and Creative Substitutions
One of the best aspects of quiche is its incredible adaptability. Feel free to get creative with these ingredient notes and substitutions to tailor the recipe to your taste, dietary needs, or what you have on hand:
- Milk: While regular milk works perfectly, for an extra rich and creamy texture, you can easily swap it for half and half or even heavy cream. This will yield a more indulgent quiche, reminiscent of classic French preparations.
- Steak: This recipe is fantastic for using up any leftover cooked meat. Besides steak, consider diced cooked chicken, turkey, ham, sausage, or even crispy bacon bits. For a delicious vegetarian option, simply omit the meat entirely and perhaps add more vegetables or a different type of cheese for protein.
- Feta Cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, or if you’re looking for a different flavor profile, it’s highly interchangeable. Goat cheese offers a similar tangy creaminess, while shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss cheese will provide a milder, meltier, and more familiar flavor. A combination of cheeses can also be wonderfully complex.
- Spinach: The healthy greens in your quiche can be easily varied. Chopped broccoli florets (steamed or blanched slightly), diced asparagus, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even kale (also well-drained) would make excellent substitutions, adding different textures and flavors. Just ensure any high-moisture vegetables are pre-cooked and drained to prevent a soggy quiche.
How to Prepare Air Fryer Crustless Spinach Quiche: Step-by-Step
Making these mini quiches in the air fryer is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect, fluffy, and flavorful result every time:
- Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (160°C). If your air fryer doesn’t have an exact 325°F setting, choose the closest temperature available. Proper preheating ensures even cooking from the moment the quiches enter the basket.
- Lightly spray your mini pie or tart pans with nonstick cooking spray. This crucial step ensures your crustless quiches release easily from the pans once cooked, preserving their delicate structure.
- Distribute the cooked steak, well-drained spinach, and crumbled feta cheese evenly across the bottom of the prepared pans. Aim for an even layer in each pan, ensuring every bite of your mini quiche is packed with delicious fillings. Avoid overfilling at this stage, as the egg mixture will be added on top.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and white pepper. Whisk vigorously for about 1-2 minutes until the eggs are thoroughly broken up, the mixture is well-blended, and a slight foam appears on top. This ensures a consistent texture and flavor throughout your quiches.
- Carefully pour the whisked egg mixture evenly over the steak, spinach, and cheese in each pan. Make sure the egg mixture covers all the other ingredients. However, be mindful not to fill the pans more than three-quarters full. This allows sufficient space for the quiches to puff up beautifully during cooking without overflowing.
- Gently place the filled mini quiche dishes into your preheated air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer and pans, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Ensure there is enough space around each pan for the hot air to circulate freely.
- Cook for 10-14 minutes at 325°F (160°C). The quiches are done when they appear puffy, have a light golden-brown top, and feel firm to the touch. The very center might look slightly wet, but it should not jiggle when gently shaken. Cooking times can vary slightly based on your specific air fryer model and the size of your pans.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the quiches from the air fryer and let them cool in their pans for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the quiches to set fully, making them easier to remove. After cooling slightly, tip the quiches out of the pans and serve warm. Alternatively, you can serve them directly from the pans once they are cool enough to handle.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Your Spinach Quiche
These savory air fryer crustless quiches are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide array of side dishes, making them suitable for any meal of the day. Here are some fantastic suggestions to complete your meal:
- Breakfast sausage: A classic breakfast companion, adding extra protein and savory flavor.
- Green salad: A light, crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich quiche.
- Broccoli salad: A creamy, crunchy broccoli salad adds texture and a dose of vegetables.
- Roasted potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes or home fries are always a welcome addition, especially for a heartier brunch.
- Hash: A savory potato and vegetable hash can complement the quiche wonderfully.
- Pasta salad: For a lunch or dinner option, a vibrant pasta salad offers a refreshing and substantial side.
- Muffins: Sweet muffins, like blueberry or lemon poppy seed, offer a delightful sweet counterpoint.
- Scones: Buttery scones, perhaps with jam and cream, elevate the brunch experience.
- Quick breads: Banana bread or zucchini bread provides a moist, comforting sweetness.
- Cinnamon rolls: For a truly indulgent brunch, warm cinnamon rolls are hard to beat.
- Focaccia: A slice of garlicky focaccia bread is perfect for soaking up any lingering flavors.
- Soups: A light cream of tomato or a clear vegetable soup can make for a wonderful lunch pairing.
- Fruit salad: A fresh and colorful fruit salad adds brightness and a healthy touch.
- Smoothies: A nutritious fruit or green smoothie is an excellent way to balance the meal.
- Parfaits: Yogurt and granola parfaits offer a creamy, crunchy, and sweet option.
- Mimosas: A classic brunch cocktail, adding a festive and bubbly touch.
- Iced tea: A refreshing iced tea is a simple yet satisfying beverage choice.
No matter the occasion, there are tons of great sides and drinks to serve alongside your spinach quiche to create a memorable and satisfying meal.
For an elevated experience, try this air fryer crustless steak and spinach quiche with my crispy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes With Cheese, my delightfully sweet Air Fryer Lemon Poppy Seed Bread or fluffy Blueberry Muffins in the Air Fryer. Don’t forget a side of savory Air Fryer Focaccia, and to wash it all down, consider a refreshing Pineapple Green Apple Smoothie or a celebratory Orange Cranberry Mimosa. The possibilities for delicious combinations are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Quiche
Why Is My Crustless Quiche Soggy?
Crustless quiche often becomes soggy when there’s too much moisture introduced into the egg mixture. To prevent this, it’s crucial to always cook any meats and high-moisture vegetables (like spinach, mushrooms, or onions) thoroughly before adding them to your quiche. Once cooked, make sure to drain out any excess liquid, perhaps even pressing vegetables like spinach to remove water. Additionally, avoid ingredients with very high water content, such as fresh tomatoes, which can release a lot of liquid during baking. If you desire to add such ingredients, it’s best to include them as a fresh topping just before serving.
Is Crustless Quiche Just an Omelet?
No, a crustless quiche is distinctly different from an omelet, and even a frittata, though it shares some similarities with the latter. While both an omelet and a crustless quiche feature eggs, an omelet is typically a single-serving dish cooked quickly on the stovetop, often folded over fillings, and known for its soft, fluffy interior. A crustless quiche, on the other hand, is closer in concept to a frittata. However, a frittata generally has a higher ratio of eggs to dairy and is usually started on the stovetop to set the bottom before being transferred to an oven to finish cooking. Crustless quiche typically contains more dairy, resulting in a creamier, custardy texture throughout, and is baked entirely in an oven or, in this case, an air fryer.
How Do You Know When Crustless Quiche is Done?
You can tell your crustless quiche is perfectly cooked when the edges are puffed and set, the top has achieved a beautiful light golden-brown hue, and the center is no longer jiggly. A classic test is to gently insert a butter knife or a thin skewer into the center; it should come out clean. If the center still appears very wobbly or wet, it needs more cooking time. If it seems almost done but not quite firm, allowing the quiche to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the air fryer often provides enough residual heat for it to finish setting beautifully, resulting in a perfectly custardy texture.
What Temperature Do You Cook Crustless Quiche in the Air Fryer?
For optimal results with crustless quiche in the air fryer, it’s generally recommended to cook it at a temperature of 325°F (160°C). This moderate temperature is ideal because it allows the eggs to cook through evenly and set properly without overcooking the edges or burning the top. Cooking at too high a temperature can lead to a rubbery texture or a burnt surface before the interior is fully cooked. If you prefer a darker, more golden-brown top, you can carefully increase the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for the last couple of minutes of cooking, but always keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
How Long Does it Take to Cook Crustless Quiche in the Air Fryer?
Typically, individual mini crustless quiches will cook in an air fryer within 10 to 14 minutes. The exact cooking time can vary based on several factors, including the size and depth of your quiche pans, the specific wattage and model of your air fryer, and whether you’re making mini quiches or a larger one. For larger, full-sized crustless quiches, the cooking time will naturally be longer, closer to 25-30 minutes. Always start checking for doneness at the lower end of the time range and cook in small increments (2-3 minutes) if additional time is needed. This incremental approach helps prevent overcooking, which can result in a dry, rubbery texture rather than the desired custardy center.
Recipe Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Quiche
- My personal experience with a Ninja air fryer yielded perfectly cooked mini crustless quiches in 10 minutes when using 4-inch diameter pans. Keep in mind that different air fryer models and varying pan sizes can slightly alter cooking times. Always adjust as needed and use the doneness tests mentioned above.
- If you decide to make a full-sized crustless quiche in a standard pie or tart pan (rather than mini pans), expect the cooking time in the air fryer to be significantly longer, typically around 25-30 minutes, maintaining the 325°F temperature.
- For extra richness, lightly sauté the spinach before adding it to the quiche, or even wilt it directly into the hot steak.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure optimal air circulation and even cooking for all your mini quiches.
Storage and Reheating Your Mini Quiches
These mini quiches are excellent for meal prep and can be enjoyed for days after cooking. Proper storage and reheating will ensure they maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
- To store leftover spinach quiche, allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual quiches for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap each cooled quiche tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- To reheat crustless quiche, whether it’s a mini quiche or a slice of a full-sized one, the air fryer is your best friend. Place the quiche back into the air fryer basket and reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and the top is slightly crisp again. Alternatively, for a quicker option, you can microwave it for about 1 minute, though the texture might be slightly softer.
More Quick & Easy Air Fryer Brunch Recipes You’ll Love
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Air Fryer Biscotti: Italian Orange and Almond Cookies!
Easy 6 Ingredient Air Fryer French Toast Casserole
How to Make a Hot Ham and Cheese Bagel in the Air Fryer
Air Fryer Turkey Bacon (Plus Easy Sandwich Recipe)
Air Fryer Monte Cristo: Disneyland Copycat Recipe!
Final Thoughts on This Delightful Air Fryer Quiche
This air fryer crustless steak and spinach quiche truly is a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, delicious, and versatile meal. It’s perfectly suited for breakfast, an elegant brunch gathering, a satisfying lunch, or even a light dinner. Beyond its incredible flavor, it offers a fantastic and resourceful way to use up any leftover steak you might have, transforming it into something new and exciting.
Whether you choose this lighter, crustless version or prefer the classic indulgence of a quiche with a creamy base and flaky crust (which you can achieve by following my other recipe!), the outcome is always a delightful and wholesome dish. The adaptability of quiche is one of its greatest strengths; from swapping fillings to experimenting with different cheeses, vegetables, and even the size of the quiche itself, there’s an endless world of culinary possibilities to explore. This recipe offers a perfect foundation for your creative culinary adventures, proving that a delicious, homemade meal can be both simple to prepare and wonderfully satisfying, no matter how many people you’re feeding.
Katie’s tip
If you crave a taste of the Mediterranean, don’t miss out on my deliciously easy and gourmet Spanakopita Grilled Cheese in the air fryer! It’s another quick air fryer favorite.
Mini Air Fryer Crustless Steak and Spinach Quiche
Equipment
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Air Fryer
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Measuring cups & spoons
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Mixing bowl
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Mini pie plates (or similar, ensuring they are oven-safe and fit your air fryer)
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Nonstick spray
Ingredients
- 4 Large eggs
- ⅓ Cup milk
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ Cup cooked steak (cut into small pieces, perfect for leftovers)
- ¼ Cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ Cup chopped spinach (well drained to avoid sogginess)
- ½ Tsp salt (or more to taste, adjust with salty cheeses)
- ½ Tsp white pepper (or more to taste, for a subtle warmth)
Instructions
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1. Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (160°C) or the nearest available setting. This ensures the quiches begin cooking immediately and evenly.
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2. Spray your mini pie or tart pans generously with nonstick spray. This is crucial for easy release of the crustless quiches.
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3. Divide the cooked steak, well-drained spinach, and crumbled feta cheese evenly across the bottom of the prepared pans. Ensure the fillings are spread in a relatively even layer.½ Cup cooked steak, ¼ Cup chopped spinach, ¼ Cup crumbled feta cheese
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4. In a medium bowl, combine the large eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and white pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is thoroughly combined and smooth, with no streaks of egg white remaining.4 Large eggs, ⅓ Cup milk, 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard, ½ Tsp salt, ½ Tsp white pepper
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5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the fillings in each pan. Ensure the mixture covers all ingredients, but do not fill the pans more than ¾ full to allow for the quiche to rise during cooking without overflowing.
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6. Carefully place the filled dishes into the preheated air fryer basket. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches to prevent overcrowding, ensuring proper air circulation.
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7. Cook for 10-14 minutes at 325°F (160°C) until the quiche is visibly puffy, lightly browned on top, and firm to the touch. The very center may still look moist but should not jiggle when gently moved. Adjust cooking time as necessary for your specific air fryer.
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8. Cool for about 5 minutes in the pans before gently tipping the quiches out. Serve warm. Alternatively, if the pans are cool enough to handle, you can serve them directly from the pan.
Notes
- Milk can be swapped for half and half or even heavy cream for a notably creamier and richer texture, if preferred.
- The steak is highly adaptable; feel free to substitute with any cooked meat you enjoy, such as chicken, ham, or turkey. For a delightful vegetarian option, simply omit the meat and enhance with more vegetables or a protein-rich cheese.
- If feta cheese isn’t to your liking, an equal amount of goat cheese will offer a similar tangy profile, or you can opt for milder shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor.
- Spinach can be swapped for other suitable vegetables like pre-cooked broccoli florets, diced asparagus, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers. Remember to drain any high-moisture vegetables thoroughly.
- My mini crustless quiches achieved perfection after precisely 10 minutes of cooking in 4-inch diameter pans using a Ninja air fryer. Please note that results may vary slightly based on different pan sizes and individual air fryer models, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
- For those opting to make a full-sized crustless quiche (prepared in a standard pie or tart pan, not mini versions), anticipate a longer cooking duration, closer to 25-30 minutes, at the same 325°F temperature.
- Store leftover spinach quiche in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For extended storage, individual quiches can be frozen for up to 3 months when properly wrapped.
- To reheat crustless quiche, place a mini quiche or a slice of a larger quiche into the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 300°F (150°C), or until it is thoroughly warmed through. Alternatively, for speed, it can be microwaved for approximately 1 minute.
- Exact nutritional values provided are general guidelines only and will fluctuate based on the specific brands of ingredients used, any substitutions made, and the actual portion sizes consumed. Please use this information as a guide and not a definitive measurement.
Nutrition
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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