Bacon and Cheese Quiche is a classic dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. With a flaky crust, crispy bacon, and a creamy, cheesy filling, this quiche is sure to be a hit with everyone. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious quiche that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients for Bacon and Cheese Quiche
For the Crust (optional if using store-bought):
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the crust, providing structure and flakiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the crust.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and diced: Adds richness and helps create a tender, flaky crust.
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water: Helps bring the dough together without making it too wet.
For the Filling:
- 6 slices bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor to the quiche.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or a mix): Provides a creamy, cheesy filling. Use your favorite cheese or a combination.
- 4 large eggs: The base of the filling, giving the quiche its custard-like texture.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or a mix of milk and cream for a lighter version): Adds richness and creaminess to the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Seasons the filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a slight kick and balances the richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional): Adds a warm, subtle spice to the filling.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
Instructions: How to Make Bacon and Cheese Quiche
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Make the Dough (Skip if using store-bought crust):
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the chilled, diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gather the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter and about 1/8 inch thick.
- Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish or tart pan. Press it gently into the bottom and sides, trimming any excess dough. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
- Blind Bake the Crust:
- Line the crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges begin to set. Remove the weights and parchment, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble it into small pieces.
- Optional: Sauté the Onion:
- If using, sauté the finely chopped onion in the bacon fat left in the skillet until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
- Make the Custard:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or milk/cream mix), salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using) until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Quiche
- Layer the Filling:
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the bottom of the pre-baked crust. Add the sautéed onion (if using) and the shredded cheese on top.
- Pour the Custard:
- Pour the egg and cream mixture over the bacon, onion, and cheese, filling the crust almost to the top. Be careful not to overfill.
Step 4: Bake the Quiche
- Bake:
- Place the quiche on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool Slightly:
- Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. This helps the filling set further and makes slicing easier.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice and Serve:
- Slice the quiche into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the crust and filling separately the day before and assemble and bake the quiche the next day.
- Crustless Option: For a lower-carb option, skip the crust entirely and pour the filling directly into a greased pie dish or tart pan.
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor.
Variations of Bacon and Cheese Quiche
Here are some ways to customize your Bacon and Cheese Quiche:
- Vegetable Quiche: Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling for a veggie-packed version.
- Herb-Infused Quiche: Add fresh herbs like chives, thyme, or parsley to the custard for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Spicy Quiche: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust for convenience. Simply follow the package instructions for pre-baking, and then proceed with the filling.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.
3. Can I freeze quiche?
Yes, you can freeze quiche either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with quiche?
Quiche pairs well with a variety of sides, including a green salad, roasted vegetables, fresh fruit, or even a bowl of soup.
5. Can I make a lighter version?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter quiche. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat cheese.
A Delicious and Versatile Dish
Bacon and Cheese Quiche is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With a flaky crust, rich custard, and flavorful fillings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this quiche is easy to customize and always a crowd-pleaser.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy this classic dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make!
