A Bacon and Cheese Quiche is a versatile and delicious dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With a buttery crust, crispy bacon, and a creamy, cheesy filling, this quiche is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you make your own crust or use store-bought for convenience, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Here’s how to make it step-by-step.

Ingredients

For the Crust (optional if using store-bought):

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 6 slices bacon
• 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or a mix)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or a mix of milk and cream for a lighter version)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust (Skip this step if using store-bought)

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. Cut in the butter: Add the chilled, diced butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter chunks.
3. Add ice water: Gradually add 3-4 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together.
4. Form and chill the dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let it rest.
5. Roll out the dough: After chilling, roll the dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough, then crimp the edges.
6. Pre-bake the crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights or dried beans, and bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment, and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Cook the bacon: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble it into small pieces.
2. Cook the onion (optional): In the same skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion in the bacon fat until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Whisk eggs and cream: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or milk and cream mixture), salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using) until well combined.
4. Add cheese and bacon: Stir in the shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and sautéed onion (if using).

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Quiche

1. Pour the filling: Pour the prepared egg mixture into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake the quiche: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Bake the quiche for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. If the crust edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
3. Cool and serve: Let the quiche cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Baking Tips

• Cold butter is key: Ensure the butter is chilled before mixing it into the flour. This helps create a flaky crust.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until the dough comes together to avoid a tough crust.
• Pre-bake the crust: Blind baking the crust ensures it won’t be soggy once the filling is added.

Variations

• Vegetable Quiche: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Ham and Cheese Quiche: Swap the bacon for diced ham and add your favorite cheese for a delicious variation.
• Spinach and Feta Quiche: Add a cup of sautéed spinach and 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes! The pie crust can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month. If frozen, thaw the dough in the fridge overnight before rolling it out.

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Absolutely! To save time, you can use a pre-made store-bought pie crust. Just follow the instructions for blind baking (pre-baking) before adding the filling.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for a quick snack.

Can I freeze quiche?

Yes, quiche freezes well. Let the quiche cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before serving.

This Bacon and Cheese Quiche is a delicious, savory dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, the combination of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a creamy egg filling inside a flaky crust is always a hit. It’s versatile, too—add your favorite vegetables or swap out the bacon for ham to create your own version. With a homemade or store-bought crust, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!