This Bacon and Cheese Quiche is a warm and yummy dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. The crispy bacon adds a nice flavor, while the melted cheese makes it extra special!
Making quiche is fun! I love tossing in my favorite veggies, too. It’s like a surprise party for your taste buds! Plus, it’s super easy to prepare ahead of time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: You can use a store-bought crust for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a homemade crust made with flour, butter, and a pinch of salt. Gluten-free options are also available if needed.
Bacon: Traditional crispy bacon adds great flavor, but you can substitute with turkey bacon or even crumbled sausage if you prefer. Vegetarian options include mushrooms or smoked tofu for a savory bite.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but Gruyère offers a nutty flavor that’s fantastic. Feel free to mix different cheeses! Mozzarella or feta also work well.
Half-and-Half: If you’re looking to cut calories, use whole milk or skim milk. For a creamier texture, heavy cream can also add richness.
Veggies: The optional onion and bell pepper add flavor and nutrients. You can swap them for spinach, kale, or even zucchini! Don’t hesitate to use whatever vegetables you have on hand.
How Do I Ensure My Quiche Sets Perfectly?
Cooking the quiche properly is key to a creamy filling without being runny. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature to ensure even baking.
- Don’t skip letting the cooked bacon cool and crumbling it—too hot could cook the eggs prematurely!
- Make sure the egg mixture is well-whisked so everything combines nicely.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center. It should come out clean if the quiche is ready. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes.
Letting the quiche cool for 10 minutes before slicing will help it hold its shape. Enjoy every bite!
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 cheese (cheddar or gruyere works well)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half cream (or whole milk)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme or fresh chopped herbs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prep and another 35-40 minutes to bake your quiche. Don’t forget to let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. The total time is roughly 1 hour, perfect for relaxing before brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the quiche cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Roll out the pie crust (if homemade) and place it into a 9-inch tart or quiche pan. Make sure to press the crust evenly into the edges and set it aside.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they are nice and crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. After it’s cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces.
4. Sauté Vegetables (Optional):
If you want to add some onion and red bell pepper, sauté them in the leftover bacon fat for about 2-3 minutes until they are softened. Then, remove from heat.
5. Layer the Filling:
Evenly sprinkle the crumbled bacon and any sautéed vegetables over the bottom of the pie crust. It will create a tasty base for your quiche!
6. Add Cheese:
Spread the shredded cheese over the bacon and vegetables, ensuring it’s well-distributed.
7. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt, pepper, and thyme until everything is well mixed and smooth.
8. Pour and Fill:
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the fillings in the crust. Fill the crust almost to the top without overflowing.
9. Bake the Quiche:
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the center and the top is golden brown. You can test it by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together when you cut into it.
Enjoy your delicious Bacon and Cheese Quiche warm or at room temperature. It’s great for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner!
Can I Use Different Meats in This Quiche?
Absolutely! If you want to switch it up, try using cooked sausage, ham, or even turkey bacon. Just ensure that any meat you use is fully cooked before adding it to the quiche.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Quiche?
Leftover quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep it covered in an airtight container. To reheat, pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze the Quiche?
Yes, you can freeze the quiche! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven.
What Are Some Good Vegetable Options for This Recipe?
Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli work beautifully in this quiche. Just make sure to sauté them first to release some moisture and enhance their flavor!