Name: Caramelised Onion and Cheese Vegan Quiche Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 block (320g) shop bought ready rolled shortcrust pastry (or homemade); 3 red onions; 1 tbsp oil; 400g/14oz extra firm tofu; 200ml/6.8 fl oz vegan cream; 100ml/3.4 fl oz unsweetened almond or soya or oat milk; 3 tbsp nutritional yeast; 2 tbsp chickpea/gram flour; 1 tbsp cornflour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp white miso paste; 1 tsp salt; Cracked black pepper, to taste; 200g vegan mature cheddar, grated

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 8 reviews

If you’re looking for a rich, satisfying dish that brings together the sweet depth of slow-cooked onions with the creamy indulgence of vegan cheese, then this Caramelised Onion and Cheese Vegan Quiche Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a fantastic plant-based take on a classic favorite that’s perfect for brunches, cozy dinners, or impressing friends at your next gathering. With its golden, flaky crust and a luscious, protein-packed filling, this quiche is bursting with flavor and texture that will make even non-vegans ask for seconds.

Ingredients You'll Need

A top view of a food processor bowl containing large cubes of white tofu layered with yellow and orange powders on the left side, sprinkled with green dried herbs on top, and various light beige and yellow powders with small black specks spread around. The bowl is clear plastic with a black center blade and a black handle, sitting on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, and structure. From the sweet caramelised onions that add a tender bite, to the cheesy umami notes from vegan cheddar and nutritional yeast, each component is simple yet essential.

3 red onions: Thinly sliced and slow-cooked to bring out incredible sweetness and depth of flavor.
1 block (320g) ready rolled shortcrust pastry: Provides a buttery, flaky base—homemade or store-bought works great.
400g extra firm tofu: The perfect protein-packed base giving the filling a silky texture and substance.
200ml vegan cream: Adds luscious creaminess without dairy, making the quiche rich and smooth.
100ml unsweetened almond/soya/oat milk: Helps blend the filling smoothly while keeping it light.
3 tablespoon nutritional yeast: Imparts that wonderful cheesy umami flavor unique to vegan dishes.
2 tablespoon chickpea/gram flour: Acts as a binder, helping the filling to firm up beautifully once baked.
1 tablespoon cornflour: Another thickening agent ensuring the quiche sets perfectly.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon white miso paste: Enhances umami, boosting the savoriness of the cheese and onions.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential to balance and heighten all the flavors.
Cracked black pepper: A little bite to elevate every mouthful.
200g vegan mature cheddar: Grated into the filling for that unmistakable cheesy delight.

How to Make Caramelised Onion and Cheese Vegan Quiche Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and caramelise the onions

Start by thinly slicing your onions and gently cooking them in a pan with a tablespoon of oil over low to medium heat. Patience is key here—the onions need 35 to 40 minutes to slowly caramelise and develop that rich sweetness that forms the backbone of this quiche’s flavor.

Step 2: Ready your pastry base

While the onions work their magic, unroll your pastry and gently press it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the excess but keep about half an inch hanging off the edges for a rustic finish. Don’t forget to prick the pastry base with a fork to prevent bubbling when baking. Pop it in the fridge for 20 minutes to ensure it stays firm during baking.

Step 3: Blend the filling

Now, take your tofu, vegan cream, plant milk, nutritional yeast, chickpea flour, cornflour, garlic powder, miso paste, salt, and black pepper, and blend them together until perfectly smooth. This silky mixture forms the creamy, savory filling. Transfer it to a bowl and fold in the caramelised onions and grated vegan cheddar, saving a bit to sprinkle on top if you like a cheesy crust.

Step 4: Blind bake the crust

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line your chilled pastry with parchment paper and fill it with baking beans or pie weights to keep the base from puffing up. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and paper and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Reduce the oven heat to 180°C (360°F) before adding the filling.

Step 5: Bake the quiche

Pour your luscious filling into the pre-baked crust and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a beautiful golden color and feels set but still soft to the touch. If it’s a little wobbly, simply give it another 5 minutes in the oven—patience makes perfect!

Step 6: Rest before serving

Once out of the oven, let your quiche sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This step allows it to firm up and makes slicing a breeze so that each piece holds its shape beautifully.

How to Serve Caramelised Onion and Cheese Vegan Quiche Recipe

A deep round tart with a golden, slightly rough crust forms the base, filled with a creamy yellowish mixture that has visible small pieces of cheese and herbs, topped with dark, caramelized onion slices spread unevenly across the surface, giving it a textured look. One triangular slice is lifted on a silver pie server, showing the rich filling inside, while the tart sits on a piece of parchment paper on a white marbled surface. Around the tart, there are small dishes with chopped green herbs and fresh green leaves on white plates, adding a fresh touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme adds a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness that perfectly complements the rich filling. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can also bring a tangy contrast that’s simply divine.

Side Dishes

This quiche pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. For brunch, try serving it alongside crispy hash browns or warm crusty bread to soak up every last flavorful bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning centerpiece, bake smaller individual quiches in muffin tins and garnish each with caramelised onion curls and a sprinkle of vegan cheese. Offering mini slices alongside a vibrant chutney or vegan sour cream dip also elevates the experience for your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover quiche keeps beautifully in the fridge, covered tightly with cling film or stored in an airtight container. It remains delicious for up to 3 days, making it the perfect make-ahead meal for busy weekdays or unexpected guests.

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance, this quiche freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the whole quiche tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months without losing its wonderful flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and crisped on the edges. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too—just heat for a couple of minutes but expect the crust to be less crispy.

FAQs

Can I make this quiche gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the shortcrust pastry for a gluten-free version or make your own using gluten-free flours. Just ensure the baking time is adjusted slightly as different pastry types can bake at varying rates.

What vegan cheese works best?

Vegan mature cheddar-style cheese adds the perfect tang and melt. Nutritional yeast complements the cheesy flavor beautifully. If you don’t have vegan cheddar, a blend of cashew cheese or other firm vegan cheeses can work, but the flavor profile might shift slightly.

Is it necessary to blind bake the pastry?

Blind baking is crucial because it prevents a soggy crust by setting it before adding the moist filling. It ensures your quiche has a lovely crisp base that supports the filling without turning mushy.

How long will this quiche keep in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, your quiche will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Beyond that, it may lose texture and flavor, so it’s best enjoyed within this window.

Can I use other types of onions?

Red onions provide a perfect balance of sweetness and color, but yellow or white onions can be used if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember to caramelise them slowly for the best flavor development.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Caramelised Onion and Cheese Vegan Quiche Recipe enough if you’re after a comforting, plant-powered dish that combines elegance with everyday ease. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a treasured favorite whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself. So grab those onions and get baking—you’re in for a truly delicious experience.