Mini Quiches with Smoked Salmon

Name: Mini Quiches with Smoked Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 mini quiches
Ingredients: 1 package puff pastry, thawed; 6 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or gruyere); 1/2 cup smoked salmon, chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Butter for greasing the muffin tin

Highlighted under: Smart Planning

When I first set out to make these mini quiches with smoked salmon, I was looking for a delightful brunch option that was both elegant and simple. The combination of creamy filling, savory salmon, and flaky crust captivated me. Each bite is a mini experience of flavor that has become a favorite in my household. These quiches are perfect for entertaining or enjoying on a cozy Sunday morning, and they are incredibly versatile – you can switch out the ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:57:36.135Z

Making these mini quiches was such a rewarding experience! I experimented with different combinations of fillings, and the smoked salmon brought an unexpected richness that paired perfectly with the creamy custard. I found that using a combination of eggs, cream, and cheese resulted in a delightful texture that was both light and satisfying.

What I loved most about this recipe is its adaptability. If you're on the lookout for a vegetarian version, simply replace the salmon with sautéed spinach and feta cheese. It’s a great way to customize the quiches based on your personal tastes or what’s available in the fridge!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory smoked salmon adds a gourmet touch to your brunch.
Rich and creamy filling creates a delightful contrast with the flaky crust.
Perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests with ease.

      

The Perfect Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is key to achieving the flaky texture that complements the creamy filling of these mini quiches. When preparing the pastry, ensure it's well-thawed but still cool; this will help maintain the layers. If frozen pastry breaks or tears, you can gently patch it together with a small piece of dough, pressing the edges to seal. Roll the pastry out to about 1/8 inch thickness for the perfect base that cradles the filling while allowing for optimal rise during baking.

To enhance the taste of the puff pastry, consider brushing it lightly with melted butter or an egg wash before baking. This adds a golden color and a buttery flavor, elevating your mini quiches to gourmet status. Keep an eye on them in the oven; once the edges start to turn golden and they puff up, it's usually a good indicator that they're nearly done.

Flavor Building with Fillings

The combination of smoked salmon, cheese, and green onions creates a beautifully layered flavor profile. Smoked salmon not only brings a rich, savory depth but also pairs beautifully with the creamy custard. If you're looking to customize, try substituting smoked salmon with cooked crab meat, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Both will work well, but be mindful of moisture; if using vegetables, ensure they’re cooked and drained to prevent a soggy quiche.

Choosing the right cheese can also impact the overall taste. While cheddar offers a sharp contrast, gruyere brings a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the smokiness of the salmon. Feel free to mix different cheeses or add fresh herbs like dill or chives for extra flavor. If you prefer a lighter custard, swap out half of the heavy cream for whole milk without compromising on richness.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Serving these mini quiches warm is essential to appreciate their texture and flavors. Pair them with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast or serve alongside a selection of pickled vegetables for an elegant brunch spread. They can also make a stunning centerpiece for any gathering; just place them on a tiered stand for a fun presentation.

If you have leftovers, store the mini quiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. They also freeze well, allowing you to double the recipe and save some for later; just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Ingredients

Mini Quiche Ingredients

1 package puff pastry, thawed
6 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or gruyere)
1/2 cup smoked salmon, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Butter for greasing the muffin tin

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin with butter.

Prepare the Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into circles to fit the muffin tin cups. Press the pastry circles into the greased muffin tin.

Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheese, smoked salmon, and green onions.

Fill the Tins

Pour the egg mixture into each pastry-lined muffin cup until just full, avoiding overflow.

Bake the Quiches

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is set.

Cool and Serve

Let the mini quiches cool for a few minutes in the tin before gently removing them. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy these quiches fresh out of the oven or save for later!

Pro Tips

For a delightful twist, add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the flavor of the quiches.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your mini quiches overflow during baking, it likely means that the muffin cups were overfilled. For best results, fill the pastry-lined cups to about 3/4 full. This allows space for the filling to puff without spilling over. If you find your quiche filling doesn't set properly, it could be due to underbaking. Ensure they are baked until the tops are firm and the edges are golden brown, usually after 20-25 minutes in the oven.

In case your crust turns out soggy, pre-baking the puff pastry for a few minutes before adding the filling can help create a firmer base. This technique also prevents the bottoms from getting too greasy from the egg mixture.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling up the recipe is easy if you're hosting a larger gathering. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings desired. A standard muffin tin holds 12 cups, but if you have a mini muffin tin, you can create bite-sized versions that are perfect for appetizers—just reduce your baking time to about 15-18 minutes.

Conversely, if you need to make fewer quiches, you can easily halve the ingredient quantities. Keep in mind the egg mixture ratio; if you're making just a few, consider using smaller eggs or packing tightly the salmon and cheese into the base, ensuring each quiche has a balanced proportion of ingredients.

Flavor Variations

Get creative with flavor combinations by introducing different types of smoked fish, such as trout or mackerel. These can add unique nuances and elevate the taste profile, ensuring you never get bored of this base recipe. Additionally, incorporating a splash of lemon juice or zest in your filling can brighten the flavors and complement the richness of the cream and cheese.

For a heartier option, consider adding sautéed spinach or other seasonal vegetables to the mix. This not only boosts the nutritional content but also adds color and texture. Just remember to reduce the moisture content beforehand by sautéing until soft, ensuring the filling remains stable while baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these quiches in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the quiches and refrigerate them before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for puff pastry?

You can use pre-made pie crust or even phyllo dough, though baking times may vary.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they will last about 3-4 days.

→ Can I freeze the mini quiches?

Yes, these quiches freeze well! Just bake, cool, and then freeze. Reheat in the oven before serving.