This bacon and cheese quiche is a tasty treat you’ll love! It’s full of crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and creamy eggs, all baked in a flaky crust. Perfect for brunch or any meal!
Honestly, who can resist the magic of bacon and cheese together? I like to serve it warm with a side salad for a balanced meal. It’s simple to make and always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: A ready-made crust saves time, but you can make your own if you prefer! If you’re gluten-free, consider using a gluten-free crust available at many stores.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds great flavor. For a healthier option, turkey bacon works well. Vegetarian? Try sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but a mix of cheddar and Swiss gives a nice flavor twist. If you’re dairy-free, opt for shredded plant-based cheese.
Half-and-Half: This makes the quiche creamy, but whole milk or even almond milk can do the trick if you want a lighter version.
Spices: Nutmeg adds warmth, but leave it out if it’s not your thing. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley brighten up the dish, too!
How Do I Ensure My Quiche has the Right Texture?
For a perfect quiche, the texture is key. Make sure your bacon is crispy to prevent sogginess. Pre-baking the crust is essential—it helps it stay crunchy. Keeping the oven at the right temperature is crucial, too; bake at 375°F (190°C) for that golden-brown top.
- Use a fork to poke holes in the crust before baking to avoid bubbles.
- When mixing eggs and cream, whisk until fully combined for a smooth filling.
- Let your quiche cool briefly before slicing; this helps it set and makes serving easier.
Bacon And Cheese Quiche
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ready-made pie crust (9-inch)
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Swiss)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bacon And Cheese Quiche takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-50 minutes to bake, making the total time approximately 1 hour. Just a little patience, and you’ll have a delightful dish to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Crust:
First, get that oven nice and toasty at 375°F (190°C). Unroll your pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart or pie pan. Gently press it down and trim any excess. Using a fork, poke a few holes in the bottom to help keep it from bubbling up while it bakes.
2. Bake the Crust:
Pop your crust into the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes. You want it just lightly golden, not fully cooked. Once it’s ready, take it out and set aside to cool a bit.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, remove it from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain. After it cools a little, chop it into small pieces.
4. Assemble the Quiche:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over your baked crust. Next, spread the chopped bacon on top of the cheese. This is where the magic starts happening!
5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half (or milk), salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if you’re using it). Make sure everything is well combined.
6. Pour and Bake:
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bacon and cheese in the crust, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Then, return the quiche to the oven and bake it for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for a nice golden top and for the filling to be set. A knife or toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
Let the quiche cool for about 5-10 minutes after taking it out of the oven—it makes slicing much easier! If you like, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Enjoy your savory bacon and cheese quiche warm or at room temperature!
This quiche is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Bon appétit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Swiss are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or gouda. Just ensure they melt well for a creamy texture!
Can I Make This Quiche Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the quiche up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Quiche?
Definitely! Adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cook them first to reduce moisture in the quiche.