Effortlessly Delicious: The Ultimate Air Fryer Mini Quiche Recipe (Broccoli, Ham & Swiss)
Get ready to elevate your brunch, lunch, or appetizer game with this incredibly easy and utterly delicious Air Fryer Quiche recipe! We’re talking about individual, perfectly portioned mini tart shells filled with a rich, creamy egg custard, generously loaded with fresh broccoli florets, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese. These bite-sized quiches are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for any occasion.
In many homes, quiche holds a special place as a versatile meal, equally at home on a lavish brunch spread or as a comforting weeknight dinner. Its adaptability is truly remarkable – with just a few staple ingredients like eggs, your favorite vegetables, and a touch of cream or milk, you can whip up a fantastic quiche in no time at all. This recipe harnesses that versatility and takes it to the next level using the magic of your air fryer!
My recent obsession with the air fryer led me to experiment with these delightful mini quiches. After finding myself with a few leftover tart shells, the idea struck: why not air fry them? The result was nothing short of spectacular! These creamy, custardy egg tarts cooked to perfection, boasting a wonderfully crisp crust and a tender, flavorful filling.
We devoured most of them for dinner, savoring every bite, and happily saved a few for a quick and satisfying lunch the following day. Beyond daily meals, I can already envision them as the ultimate party appetizer – elegant, easy to eat, and always a crowd-pleaser! They’re proof that some of the best culinary discoveries happen when you embrace new cooking methods.
If you’re seeking a crustless option for your air fryer, you’ll love these air fryer egg bites. Made with just seven simple ingredients, including cottage cheese, they offer a lighter alternative without compromising on flavor or convenience. Perfect for a keto-friendly breakfast or snack!
Perhaps you don’t own an air fryer, or you simply prefer a classic full-sized quiche. No problem at all! We frequently enjoy this vibrant Mediterranean quiche, bursting with fresh flavors, and this comforting butternut squash quiche, both crafted with a delightful and crispy almond flour crust. For those craving something even lighter, our crustless asparagus quiche is an absolute favorite, especially when asparagus is in season, offering a fresh and healthy meal option.
Why You’ll Adore These Air-Fried Mini Quiches
These mini air fryer quiches aren’t just another recipe; they’re a revelation! Here’s why they’re destined to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Effortless Brunch or Lunch Solution: Say goodbye to complicated meal prep. These mini quiches are incredibly easy to make, making them ideal for a relaxed weekend brunch or a quick, satisfying weekday lunch. Pair them with a simple side salad, fresh fruit, or a light soup, and you have a complete, delicious meal ready to enjoy in minutes.
- Perfect Party Appetizers: Planning a get-together? These handheld bites are a fantastic addition to any party spread. Their individual size makes them easy to serve and enjoy, complementing other appetizers beautifully. They’re visually appealing and always a hit with guests, making you the star of the show!
- Fantastic for Meal Prep: Life gets busy, but healthy eating doesn’t have to suffer. These mini quiches store wonderfully in the fridge for several days and freeze exceptionally well for longer periods. You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, then simply reheat them whenever hunger strikes, ensuring you always have a wholesome option on hand.
- Highly Customizable: The beauty of quiche lies in its flexibility. This recipe provides a delicious base, but feel free to unleash your creativity! Easily swap out the ham, broccoli, or cheese for your favorite proteins, vegetables, or an assortment of different cheeses. You can also experiment with various seasonings and herbs to perfectly match your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Frees Up Your Oven: During holidays, potlucks, or busy meal times, oven space is often a hot commodity. Cooking these mini quiches in the air fryer means your main oven remains free for baking other dishes, roasting vegetables, or preparing desserts. It’s a game-changer for efficient kitchen management.
Details on the Essential Ingredients
Crafting the perfect mini quiche starts with understanding each component. Here’s a closer look at the simple ingredients you’ll need:
Tart shells – For this recipe, you’ll need 12 frozen mini tart shells, typically around 3 inches in diameter. These pre-made shells are a fantastic shortcut, saving you significant time and effort compared to making crust from scratch. If your tart shells are smaller than 3 inches, you might need more than 12 to accommodate all the filling, and they will likely cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them. Ensure they are frozen until ready to thaw briefly for par-baking.
Eggs – Just three large eggs form the creamy base of our quiche filling. Eggs are the star, providing structure and richness. For best results, use fresh, large eggs. Whisk them thoroughly to incorporate air, which contributes to a lighter, fluffier texture in the finished quiche.
Cream – To achieve that signature rich and custardy quiche filling, 1/3 cup of heavy cream is my preferred choice. While you can certainly use milk (whole milk for best results), my recipe tests showed that cream yields a noticeably fluffier and more decadent texture. The higher fat content in cream creates a more luxurious mouthfeel, making each bite truly satisfying. Half-and-half can also be a good compromise between milk and heavy cream.
Broccoli – You’ll need 1/2 cup of finely chopped broccoli. Fresh broccoli florets provide a delightful texture and earthy flavor. It’s crucial to chop them into small, bite-sized pieces so they distribute evenly and fit neatly within the mini tart shells. You can also use broccolini, just ensure it’s prepared in small pieces. For convenience, you can briefly blanch the broccoli or use thawed frozen broccoli, patting it dry to prevent excess moisture.
Ham – This recipe calls for 1/2 cup of diced pre-cooked ham. This is a wonderful opportunity to use up leftover ham from a holiday meal, or you can simply pick up a slice or two from your local grocery store’s deli counter. Dicing the ham into small, uniform pieces ensures that every bite of quiche contains a balanced blend of flavors and textures.
Swiss cheese – A touch of grated Swiss cheese adds a nutty, savory depth that perfectly complements the ham and broccoli. While you can certainly omit the cheese or substitute with another variety like cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese is a classic pairing for a reason. Make sure to grate the cheese finely; this helps it melt seamlessly into the egg mixture and ensures even distribution throughout the mini quiches.
Salt and pepper – Simple yet essential, a little salt and freshly ground black pepper are all you need to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients. Feel free to adjust the quantities to suit your personal taste. You can also get creative and add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of your favorite dried herbs like thyme or chives for an extra layer of flavor.
Mastering Air Fryer Quiche: Step-by-Step Guide
Making these delicious mini quiches in your air fryer is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:
- Prepare Tart Shells: Begin by thawing your frozen mini tart shells. Place them at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes. This slight thaw makes them easier to handle and helps prevent cracking during par-baking.
- Preheat and Par-bake: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for a full 5 minutes to ensure it reaches the correct temperature. Arrange the unfilled tart shells in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you will likely need to do this in two batches. Air fry the empty shells for 3 minutes. This crucial step, known as par-baking, prevents a soggy bottom crust by partially cooking it before adding the wet filling. Once baked, carefully remove the shells and let them cool for a few minutes until they are cool enough to handle without burning your fingers.
- Prepare the Filling: While the tart shells are cooling, combine the eggs and cream in a medium-sized bowl. Whisk them together vigorously until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy, indicating good air incorporation. Then, gently stir in the finely chopped broccoli, diced ham, grated Swiss cheese, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the ingredients are well distributed throughout the egg mixture.
- Fill the Shells: Carefully pour or spoon the egg mixture into the partially baked tart shells. Fill them almost to the rim of the crust, leaving a small amount of space. It’s important not to overfill, as the egg mixture will puff up as it cooks in the air fryer.
- Return to Air Fryer: Gently place the filled shells back into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Arrange them so there’s a little space between each quiche to allow for proper air circulation, which helps them cook evenly.
- Air Fry Filled Quiches: Air fry the filled quiches at 360°F (180°C) for 6-7 minutes. Keep a close watch during the last couple of minutes. The quiches are ready when the egg filling has just started to puff up in the center and the edges of the crusts are beautifully golden brown. The center should still have a slight jiggle, indicating a custardy texture, but not be liquid.
- Rest and Repeat: Once cooked, carefully remove the mini quiches from the air fryer basket and let them rest on a wire rack for at least 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the hot egg filling to fully set, preventing it from collapsing when you bite into it.
- Continue Batches: Repeat the filling and air frying process with the remaining par-baked tart shells and egg mixture until all your delicious mini quiches are cooked.
Exciting Recipe Variations to Try
One of the best aspects of quiche is how easily it adapts to different flavors and ingredients. Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste or what you have on hand. For the best results, always ensure your chosen fillings are pre-cooked (if necessary), relatively dry, and chopped into small pieces that will fit neatly into the mini tart shells. Here are some inspiring options:
- Meats: Explore beyond ham! Try cooked and crumbled bacon or turkey bacon for a smoky flavor. Crumbled breakfast sausage (pork or chicken), finely diced cooked chicken, or even delicate torn prosciutto can add wonderful savory notes. Ensure any meat is fully cooked and drained of excess fat before adding to the mixture.
- Veggies: The possibilities are endless! Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers (any color), sautéed onions or leeks for a sweet undertone, thinly sliced scallions for a mild oniony kick, or cooked and chopped asparagus for a touch of spring. Spinach (squeezed dry), mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) also work beautifully.
- Cheese: While Swiss is excellent, don’t hesitate to switch it up. Feta cheese offers a tangy, briny contrast, mozzarella provides a mild, stretchy melt, sharp cheddar delivers a classic robust flavor, Gruyère brings a sophisticated nuttiness, and crumbled goat cheese adds a creamy, tart element. Mix and match for unique flavor profiles!
- Seasonings: Enhance your quiches with different herbs and spices. Freshly chopped herbs like chives, parsley, dill, or thyme add a vibrant aroma. For a classic touch, use dried Italian seasoning. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can deepen the savory base. Smoked paprika can add a subtle warmth, while a dash of Old Bay seasoning offers a unique, zesty kick.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Mini Quiches
Let’s address some common questions to ensure your air fryer quiche experience is a complete success:
Absolutely, yes! Partially baking the tart shells for a few minutes before adding the filling is a crucial step for achieving the perfect mini quiche. This process helps to dry out the crust, preventing it from becoming soggy on the bottom once the wet egg filling is added. It also ensures that both the crust and the filling finish cooking at the same time, resulting in a perfectly balanced texture and a consistently delicious bite. Don’t skip this step for truly superior results!
Based on extensive testing in a Cosori 5.8-quart air fryer, I found that 360°F (180°C) is the optimal temperature for air frying these mini quiches. This temperature allows the crust to crisp up beautifully while the egg filling cooks through to a creamy, custardy consistency without overcooking or becoming rubbery. If you’re using a different brand or model of air fryer, you may need to adjust the temperature slightly. It’s always a good idea to monitor your quiches closely during the first batch to find the ideal setting for your specific appliance.
The total air frying time for each batch of mini quiches, including the initial par-baking of the tart shells, is approximately 9-10 minutes. This includes 3 minutes for par-baking the empty shells and then 6-7 minutes once they are filled. Keep in mind that you’ll need to cook them in batches to ensure even cooking and proper air circulation. While the total hands-on time is minimal, the batch cooking means the overall preparation time for a dozen quiches will be a bit longer.
Mini quiches are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide variety of sides, depending on whether you’re serving them for a light meal or as part of a larger spread. For a lighter meal, consider a crisp and refreshing spring salad, some savory air fryer potato wedges, or perfectly roasted baby potatoes. Other excellent potato options include crispy air fryer potato slices or hearty air fryer home fries!
You can also complement them with a side of lean air fryer turkey bacon, unique turnip fries, a colorful medley of mixed air fryer vegetables, a fresh fruit salad, some toasted artisanal bread, or even a warming bowl of spicy tomato chickpea soup for a comforting combination. The options are truly limitless!
Storage and Reheating for Convenience
These mini quiches are fantastic for meal prep, as they store and reheat beautifully. Here’s how to keep them fresh and enjoy them later:
Refrigeration: Once your mini quiches have cooled completely to room temperature, place them in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will maintain their freshness and delicious flavor for 3-4 days. They make for a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or lunch!
Freezing: For longer storage, mini quiches are an excellent freezer candidate. Allow them to cool completely in the fridge first. Then, arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. If stacking, place sheets of wax paper or parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, offering a convenient homemade option whenever you need it.
Reheating: To reheat, whether from the fridge or freezer, the air fryer is your best friend for restoring their crispy texture. Arrange the quiches in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If reheating from the refrigerator, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 4-5 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through and the crust is crisp again. If reheating from frozen, add an additional 2-3 minutes to the cooking time, ensuring they are heated through to the center. You can also reheat them in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes (20-25 minutes from frozen) for a similar result.
Essential Recipe Tips for Perfect Mini Quiches
Achieving perfectly cooked, delicious air fryer mini quiches is easy when you keep a few key tips in mind. These pointers will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure fantastic results every time:
- Mind Your Add-Ins: The size of your filling ingredients matters, especially for mini quiches. Ensure that your broccoli and ham are chopped into very small, uniform pieces. This not only ensures they fit neatly into the small tart shells but also allows for even distribution of flavor in every bite. Similarly, I highly recommend finely grating your Swiss cheese (or any cheese you choose) so it melts seamlessly and blends well into the egg mixture.
- Always Par-bake the Shells: This is a non-negotiable step! Partially baking the tart shells for a few minutes before adding the wet filling is critical. It creates a barrier that prevents the crust from becoming soggy at the bottom, a common quiche woe. Par-baking also helps the crust cook evenly alongside the filling, giving you a perfectly crisp base every time.
- Don’t Skip Preheating the Air Fryer: Just like a conventional oven, your air fryer needs to be preheated to the correct temperature to ensure consistent cooking. If you don’t preheat it (especially for the first batch of tart shells), the shells will require a few extra minutes to par-bake, potentially throwing off your timing and consistency. Preheating ensures an immediate, even heat that starts the cooking process right away.
- Air Fry in Batches: For optimal cooking, mini quiches need space for air to circulate freely around them. This means you’ll need to arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Depending on the size and model of your air fryer, this will typically mean cooking them in 2-3 batches. Resist the urge to overcrowd the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy crusts.
- Avoid Overcooking: The ideal mini quiche should have a wonderfully custardy, creamy texture in the center. Overcooking the egg filling can lead to a dry, rubbery consistency, which detracts from the overall experience. Watch for visual cues: the quiches are ready when the egg filling just starts to puff up, and the edges of the crusts are beautifully browned. The very center should still have a slight, gentle wobble.
- The Crucial 5-Minute Rest: Once you remove the quiches from the air fryer, it’s vital to let them rest for at least 5 minutes before serving or moving them. The residual heat will continue to cook the egg filling slightly, and this resting time allows the proteins in the egg to fully set. This prevents the filling from collapsing or weeping when you cut into it, ensuring a perfect, stable mini quiche.
More Delicious Air Fryer Recipes to Explore
If you’re loving the convenience and results of air frying, you’ll be thrilled to discover these other fantastic air fryer recipes that make cooking quick and easy:
- Air Fryer Mini Pizza
- Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel
- Air Fryer Chicken Schnitzel
- Air Fryer Chicken Bites
- Air Fryer Gnocchi
- Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls
- Air Fryer Pears
I genuinely hope you enjoy making and savoring these delightful Air Fryer Mini Quiches as much as we do. If you try this recipe, I would absolutely love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below!
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Air Fryer Mini Quiches (Broccoli, Ham & Swiss Recipe)
5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star
3 from 1 review
Author: Leanne
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 mini quiches
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Appetizer
Method: Air Fry
Cuisine: American
Description
This super easy Air Fryer Quiche recipe features crispy mini tart shells filled with a creamy, rich egg filling loaded with delicious broccoli, savory ham, and nutty Swiss cheese. It’s the perfect quick and delightful dish for any meal!
Ingredients
- 12 mini frozen tart shells (3-inch size)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup finely chopped broccoli
- 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/4 cup finely grated Swiss cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Thaw the mini tart shells at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to make them easier to handle.
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 5 minutes. Arrange the unfilled shells in a single layer in the air fryer basket and air fry for 3 minutes to par-bake. You’ll need to do this in 2 batches. Let them cool for a few minutes until they are cool enough to handle.
- Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together the large eggs and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in the finely chopped broccoli, diced cooked ham, grated Swiss cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Carefully fill the partially baked tart shells with the egg mixture, almost to the rim of the crust. Be mindful not to overfill, as the quiche filling will puff up as it cooks.
- Gently place the filled shells back into the air fryer basket, maintaining a single layer and leaving some space between each quiche.
- Air fry the filled quiches at 360°F (180°C) for 6-7 minutes, or until the egg filling has just started to puff up in the center and the edges of the crusts are golden brown. The center should still have a slight jiggle.
- Carefully remove the cooked quiches and let them rest on a wire rack for 5 minutes. This allows the egg filling to set completely and prevents it from collapsing.
- Repeat the process with the remaining tart shells and egg mixture until all your delicious mini quiches are cooked and ready to enjoy!
Notes
- For ideal distribution and to fit neatly into mini tart shells, ensure your broccoli and ham are chopped into very small pieces. Finely grating your cheese is also recommended for a smooth melt and even flavor throughout.
- Preheating your air fryer is key! If you skip this step, especially for the first batch of tart shells, they will require a few additional minutes to par-bake properly, which can affect overall cooking consistency.
- The crucial step of partially baking the tart shells prevents the bottoms of your quiches from becoming soggy and ensures the crust finishes cooking perfectly at the same time as the creamy filling.
- To ensure even cooking and crispy crusts, always air fry the quiches in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, this will typically require cooking in 2 to 3 batches.
- The goal is a custardy texture, so avoid overcooking the quiches. They are perfectly done when the egg filling just starts to puff up in the center and the crust edges are nicely browned. A slight wobble in the center is a good sign of doneness.
- Allowing the quiches to rest for 5 minutes after cooking is important. This allows the residual heat to finish cooking and helps the egg filling to fully set, ensuring a stable and delicious result.
- This recipe was developed and tested using a Cosori 5.8-quart air fryer. If your air fryer is a different brand, model, or size, you may need to adjust the cooking temperature and time slightly to achieve the best results.
- For more detailed advice on ingredients, variations, and serving suggestions, be sure to refer to the sections above the recipe card.