The Crab & Swiss Cheese Quiche is a refined take on the classic French tart, offering an elegant fusion of creamy eggs, succulent crabmeat, and nutty Swiss cheese nestled in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for brunch gatherings or sophisticated luncheons, this quiche combines the delicate sweetness of crab with subtle herbs and a rich, custard-like filling that melts in your mouth. Serve it warm or chilled with a crisp green salad or chilled white wine for a gourmet experience at home.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 9-inch prepared pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup lump crabmeat, picked over for shells
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions (scallions)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for sautéing)
• Optional garnish: extra chopped parsley or paprika

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a store-bought crust, place it into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork.
2. Blind bake the crust by placing parchment paper over the crust and filling with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Sauté green onions in butter over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until softened. Remove from heat.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth and frothy.
5. Layer the quiche filling: Sprinkle Swiss cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust, followed by crabmeat, sautéed onions, and chopped parsley.
6. Pour the egg mixture carefully over the filling, ensuring it spreads evenly.
7. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is just set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
8. Cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra parsley or a light dusting of paprika if desired.
9. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled for a delightful seafood brunch treat.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 290
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 165mg
• Sodium: 480mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Vitamin A: 15% DV
• Vitamin C: 4% DV
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 8% DV

Nutritional Benefits of Crab Meat

Crab meat is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein that supports muscle maintenance and repair. Additionally, crab is low in fat and contains omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health. It also provides vital minerals like selenium, zinc, and copper, and vitamins such as B12 and riboflavin. Incorporating crab into a quiche adds a healthy, flavorful seafood element to your meal without excess calories or unhealthy fats.

Swiss Cheese Flavor Profile

Swiss cheese lends a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the delicate sweetness of crab. It melts beautifully, creating a creamy, rich texture in quiches and baked dishes. Its low moisture content helps keep the quiche firm while still offering a soft, velvety mouthfeel. Choosing aged Swiss varieties enhances the depth of flavor, making the dish taste more refined and elegant—perfect for brunch or special occasions.

Why Use a Pre-Baked Crust

Blind baking the crust before adding the filling ensures a crisp, non-soggy bottom. This step is crucial in custard-based quiches like this one. Without blind baking, the moisture from the crab and egg mixture can seep into the crust, making it mushy. Pre-baking also locks in the buttery flavor and gives a professional texture that holds up well whether served warm or chilled.

Eggs as a Binding Agent

Eggs serve as the primary binding ingredient in any quiche, turning the mixture of fillings into a firm but tender custard. They add structure, color, and a silky texture to the dish. In this recipe, eggs work together with cream and milk to suspend the crab and cheese evenly, allowing every slice to contain a balanced portion of filling. They’re also an excellent source of protein and vitamins like D and B12.

The Importance of Dairy Balance

Combining both cream and milk results in a smooth, luxurious custard that doesn’t overwhelm the palate or become overly rich. Half-and-half or heavy cream adds richness and body, while milk lightens the texture. This balanced dairy ratio ensures the quiche is neither too dense nor too watery, allowing the seafood and cheese to shine through without being masked by excess creaminess.

Use of Aromatics and Herbs

Green onions and parsley introduce freshness and subtle aromatics that lift the flavor of the quiche. Green onions provide a mild sharpness that complements the sweetness of crab, while parsley adds earthiness and color. Fresh herbs work best for bright, vivid flavor, but dried alternatives can still contribute if used correctly. You can experiment with dill, tarragon, or even chives to suit personal tastes.

Creative Additions and Variations

This quiche is versatile and open to many variations. For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers can be added for extra texture and nutrients. Cheese lovers might enjoy mixing in Gruyère or Fontina. You can even substitute the crab for shrimp, smoked salmon, or scallops for a different seafood twist.

Crustless Option for Low-Carb Diets

For those watching their carbohydrate intake or following a gluten-free lifestyle, a crustless version of this quiche is an excellent alternative. Simply grease a pie dish and pour the filling directly into it. The result is a lighter, yet still satisfying dish with fewer calories and carbs. This makes the recipe suitable for keto or diabetic-friendly meal planning.

Ideal Occasions to Serve This Quiche

Crab & Swiss Cheese Quiche is an elegant dish suited for a variety of occasions. It makes a perfect addition to brunch buffets, bridal or baby showers, and holiday breakfasts. It also works well for light lunches or dinners when paired with a side salad or soup. Because it can be served warm or chilled, it’s great for both casual and formal gatherings.

Pairing with Sides and Beverages

This quiche pairs beautifully with simple sides like arugula salad, roasted asparagus, or fresh fruit. For a complete meal, consider adding a cup of gazpacho or a bowl of creamy potato leek soup. When it comes to drinks, sparkling water, white wine like Chardonnay, or even a light citrusy mimosa all complement the creamy and seafood-forward flavors of the dish.

Make-Ahead and Reheating Tips

Quiches are known for their make-ahead friendliness. You can prepare the entire quiche a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. It reheats well in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain a crisp crust. This convenience makes it ideal for stress-free hosting.

Proper Storage and Shelf Life

After baking, the quiche should be cooled to room temperature before being refrigerated. It will keep for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag—frozen quiche can last up to 2 months. To reheat frozen quiche, bake directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes.

Freezing Tips for Batch Cooking

This recipe is perfect for batch cooking and freezing. Bake the quiche, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze. You can also freeze unbaked filling separately and assemble fresh with a crust before baking. This flexibility helps reduce food waste and ensures a gourmet meal is always on hand.

Conclusion

Crab & Swiss Cheese Quiche brings together elegance, flavor, and nutrition in a way that feels special but is easy to execute at home. Its adaptability, make-ahead convenience, and crowd-pleasing appeal make it a standout choice for everything from casual brunches to celebratory meals. With the right techniques and thoughtful pairings, this quiche elevates your table without the need for professional skills—just a love of good food.