Name: Tomato, Basil & Caramelized Onion Quiche Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon salted butter; 1 medium yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced; 1¼ teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional); 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 unbaked Pie Crust, homemade or store bought; 6 large eggs; ¾ cup heavy cream; ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 12 ounces assorted tomatoes, cut into ¼-inch-thick slices; 8 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, plus more for serving; ⅔ cup grated Parmesan

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 42 reviews

There’s something irresistibly cozy and bright about this Tomato, Basil & Caramelized Onion Quiche Recipe that makes it an all-time favorite for brunches, lunches, or even a light dinner. Combining the sweetness of caramelized onions with the vibrant freshness of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, all nestled within a creamy, cheesy custard and a flaky crust, this quiche feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s not only a stunning sight but also a delightful way to showcase classic flavors that work harmoniously together in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. On the left, a white speckled plate holds sliced red and green tomatoes and small halved cherry tomatoes. Next to the plate, there are chunks of hard cheese and garlic cloves. Toward the center, a clear glass bowl contains small white butter cubes, surrounded by brown eggs and a white pitcher filled with milk. Small wooden bowls hold brown sugar, minced garlic, and a mix of salt and pepper. On the right side, a white bowl contains thinly sliced onions, and fresh green basil leaves are placed nearby. A gray bowl at the bottom right is filled with white flour. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating a quiche bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays a special role, from the buttery crust to the fresh herbs that add a lively touch.

Salted butter: Perfect for caramelizing the onions, adding richness and depth to their natural sweetness.
Yellow onion: Thinly sliced for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture when caramelized.
Sea salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
Brown sugar (optional): A pinch helps the onions develop a luscious, golden caramel color and subtle sweetness.
Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the dish with a warm, aromatic backdrop.
Pie crust: Whether homemade or store-bought, a flaky, buttery crust is the foundation that holds it all together.
Large eggs: The base for the creamy custard that binds everything beautifully.
Heavy cream: Adds richness and silky texture to the quiche filling.
Freshly cracked black pepper: For a subtle bite that balances the creaminess.
Assorted tomatoes: Sliced thin to provide juicy bursts of freshness and a lovely pop of color.
Fresh basil leaves: Thinly sliced for herby brightness that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
Grated Parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that ties the custard and veggies together.

How to Make Tomato, Basil & Caramelized Onion Quiche Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by heating the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with sea salt and, if you like, a small spoonful of brown sugar to speed up caramelization. Stir occasionally, letting the onions soften and turn a rich golden brown, which usually takes around 20 minutes. Towards the end, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a deep, sweet foundation that’s key to the quiche’s flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

While the onions cook, lay your pie crust into a 9-inch quiche or pie pan and gently press it into the edges. If it’s store bought, you can prick the bottom lightly with a fork to prevent bubbling. Optionally, you can blind bake the crust for about 8 minutes at 350°F to ensure it stays crisp once filled.

Step 3: Make the Custard Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until smooth and well combined. Add the freshly cracked black pepper and grated Parmesan cheese, then fold in the caramelized onions along with their buttery goodness. This creamy custard brings richness and a perfect balance to the fresh vegetables.

Step 4: Assemble the Quiche

Layer the sliced tomatoes evenly over the pie crust, sprinkling the thinly sliced basil over the top for bursts of herby aroma. Pour the custard and caramelized onion mixture gently over the tomatoes, making sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your quiche in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center, and the crust is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before slicing, which helps everything settle for perfect wedges.

How to Serve Tomato, Basil & Caramelized Onion Quiche Recipe

The image shows a golden, flaky pie crust forming the base and edges of a tomato and cheese pie. On the top layer, there are round slices of red and brown tomatoes baked into a creamy, melted cheese layer with slight browning. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered on top as a garnish, providing a fresh contrast. One slice of the pie is slightly pulled out, showing the thickness of the creamy cheese and tomato layers inside. The pie is placed on a white marbled surface, with a knife laying next to it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves scattered just before serving add a lovely fragrance and vivid color that make each slice look as delicious as it tastes. A light drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

This quiche pairs beautifully with simple green salads featuring lemony vinaigrette or crisp crudités. Roasted new potatoes or a bowl of fresh berries also complement the rich custard and vibrant tomatoes perfectly, rounding out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual mini quiches using muffin tins for a festive brunch or party. Layered with colorful heirloom tomatoes and topped with a basil sprig, they’re sure to impress. You can also cut wedges and serve atop lightly toasted baguette slices for a delightful open-faced tart experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your quiche tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often develop even more, making leftovers just as enjoyable.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the quiche whole or in slices. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To enjoy your Tomato, Basil & Caramelized Onion Quiche Recipe all over again, warm slices in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the crust may become soggy instead of crisp and flaky.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this quiche?

Absolutely! While Parmesan lends a wonderful nutty saltiness, feel free to experiment with goat cheese, Gruyère, or even a sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles.

Is it better to use fresh tomatoes or canned for this recipe?

Fresh tomatoes are ideal here because they provide bright color and freshness that canned simply can’t replicate. Just make sure to slice them thinly and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the quiche.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian since it contains no meat, but making it vegan requires some swaps, like using a plant-based custard and dairy-free cheese alternatives. The tomato, basil & caramelized onion flavors will still shine beautifully.

Do I have to pre-bake the pie crust?

While not absolutely necessary, pre-baking or blind baking the crust helps prevent sogginess by setting the dough before adding the wet filling. It’s a little extra effort that guarantees a perfectly crisp crust every time.

What’s the best way to caramelize onions quickly?

Adding a pinch of brown sugar and cooking over medium-low heat will speed up the process and help the onions develop that deep golden color faster, but be patient since slow caramelization results in the richest flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Tomato, Basil & Caramelized Onion Quiche Recipe a try because it combines the magic of simple ingredients into something downright unforgettable. Whether you’re feeding loved ones or treating yourself, it’s a dish that brings comfort, color, and the best kind of delicious to your table with every slice.

Tomato, Basil & Caramelized Onion Quiche Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need