This Bacon and Cheese Quiche is a tasty treat that’s easy to love! It’s filled with crispy bacon and gooey cheese, all nestled in a crispy crust that just can’t be beat.
Sunday brunch? Check! You can whip this up quickly and fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting smell. I love serving it with a simple salad on the side for a perfect meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: A homemade crust is great if you have the time, but a store-bought one works just fine! If you want a healthier option, consider using a whole wheat crust or even a cauliflower crust for a low-carb choice.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for that extra crunch, but turkey bacon is a fantastic alternative if you’d like to cut down on fat. For a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or grilled veggies!
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor, while Gruyere adds richness. If you can’t find Gruyere, substitute with Monterey Jack or even mozzarella. You can play with different cheese combinations based on your taste!
Eggs: The eggs hold everything together. For a lighter quiche, you could use egg whites or egg substitutes. Just remember, this might change the texture a bit.
How Can I Ensure My Egg Mixture Is Perfectly Blended?
Mixing eggs and the cream (or milk) well is key to a smooth filling. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start with fresh eggs at room temperature; this helps them blend better.
- Whisk well until the mixture is uniform, with no visible egg whites. A fork works, but a whisk makes it easier!
- Add your seasonings directly into the mixture to distribute the flavor evenly.
By giving a thorough whisk, you’ll ensure a creamy consistency that’s just as delicious as it looks! Enjoy your quiche creation!
Bacon and Cheese Quiche
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Quiche:
- 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, or substitute additional cheddar)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious quiche takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to bake, plus an additional 10 minutes for cooling. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour to enjoy this savory dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, carefully place it in a 9-inch tart or pie pan. Use a fork to prick the bottom evenly; this helps release any steam and keeps the crust from bubbling up during baking.
2. Blind Bake the Crust:
Pop the crust into the preheated oven and bake it for about 8 minutes. This process, known as blind baking, gives your crust a nice head start before adding the filling. After 8 minutes, take it out and let it cool slightly.
3. Cook the Bacon:
While the crust is baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Let it crisp up to your liking! Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain any excess grease. Once cooled, chop it into small pieces.
4. Mix the Egg Filling:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half (or milk), salt, pepper, and nutmeg until everything is nicely combined. This blend will create a rich and creamy filling for your quiche!
5. Assemble the Quiche:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bottom of the partially baked crust. Then, spread the chopped bacon over the cheese. Finally, carefully pour the egg mixture over the top to fill the crust.
6. Bake the Quiche:
Return the quiche to the oven and bake it for about 35 to 40 minutes. The filling should be fully set, and the top should have a light golden color. To check if it’s done, insert a knife near the center; it should come out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes. This short cooling time will make slicing easier and allow the flavors to settle. When ready, cut into slices, serve, and enjoy!
Enjoy your warm, savory bacon and cheese quiche with a light salad or a side dish. It’s perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Pie Crust for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using it. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if it’s very cold when you put it in the oven.
Can I Substitute the Bacon with Another Protein?
Yes, you can substitute bacon with cooked sausage, ham, or even crispy cooked tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure whatever protein you use is pre-cooked before adding it to the quiche.
How Do I Store Leftover Quiche?
To store leftovers, let the quiche cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Quiche?
Definitely! Veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or onions work great in quiche. Make sure to sauté them first to reduce moisture before adding them to the filling, which helps keep the quiche from becoming watery.
