Classic Quiche

A classic quiche is the perfect combination of a golden, flaky crust and a rich, creamy egg filling infused with the savory flavors of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and melty Swiss cheese. It’s a timeless dish that works for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. What makes quiche so special is its versatility you can customize the filling with your favorite meats, cheeses, and vegetables, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Serve it warm with a side salad or enjoy it cold for a delicious, effortless meal. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or meal-prepping for the week, this quiche is always a winner!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 (9-inch) pie crust (homemade, refrigerated, or frozen)
4 large eggs
1 cup cream (or half and half or whole milk)
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg (optional)
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
½ cup caramelized onions

Directions:

Preheat Oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Pie Crust: If using refrigerated or homemade crust, roll it out, place it in a 9-inch pie pan, and crimp the edges. Pre-bake for 15 minutes with pie weights or dried beans. Remove the weights and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly.
Prepare the Quiche Base: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, salt, pepper, onion powder, and nutmeg until light and fluffy.
Assemble the Quiche: Spread the Swiss cheese, crumbled bacon, and caramelized onions evenly over the pre-baked crust. Pour the egg mixture over the fillings.
Bake: Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set but the center has a slight wobble.
Cool and Serve: Let the quiche rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 211 kcal | Servings: 8 servings

The Origins of Quiche

Although quiche is widely regarded as a classic French dish, its origins can be traced back to Germany. The word “quiche” comes from the German word “kuchen,” which means cake. The dish is believed to have originated in the medieval German kingdom of Lothringen, later renamed Lorraine when it became part of France. The now-famous Quiche Lorraine was traditionally made with a simple filling of eggs, cream, and smoked bacon, baked in a rustic bread dough. Over time, the dish evolved, incorporating various ingredients and refining the pastry crust to what we recognize today.

The modern quiche gained international popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States and the UK, where it became a staple at brunches and social gatherings. Today, quiche remains a versatile favorite, adaptable to a wide range of flavor profiles and dietary preferences.

Why This Classic Quiche Recipe Works

This quiche recipe stands out for several reasons:

Perfectly Balanced Texture: The key to an excellent quiche is the consistency of the custard filling. Using a combination of eggs and cream ensures a silky, rich texture that is neither too firm nor too runny.
Flaky, Buttery Crust: A well-prepared pie crust provides the perfect base for the filling. Pre-baking the crust prevents it from becoming soggy, ensuring that each slice has a satisfying crunch.
Savory and Customizable Fillings: The classic combination of Swiss cheese, bacon, and caramelized onions creates a deeply flavorful quiche. However, this recipe is easily adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different cheeses, meats, and vegetables.
Easy to Make Ahead: Quiche is ideal for meal prep, as it can be stored in the refrigerator for several days or frozen for later use. It reheats beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy mornings or quick lunches.

Variations and Customizations

One of the greatest things about quiche is its versatility. While the traditional ingredients include eggs, cream, cheese, and bacon, you can modify the recipe to suit different dietary preferences and flavor preferences.

Vegetarian Options: Replace bacon with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a meat-free alternative. Adding feta or goat cheese can enhance the richness and depth of flavor.
Cheese Selections: While Swiss cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with cheddar, Gruyère, feta, or even blue cheese for a bolder taste.
Meat Choices: If bacon isn’t your preference, you can use ham, sausage, or smoked salmon for a delicious twist.
Dairy-Free Quiche: Substitute the cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk, and use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
Gluten-Free Crust: Opt for a gluten-free pastry crust or even a crustless quiche for a lighter, low-carb option.

Best Ways to Serve Quiche

Quiche is an incredibly versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions to complete your meal:

Brunch Pairing: Serve quiche with a fresh green salad, fresh fruit, and a side of roasted potatoes or a light soup for a complete and satisfying brunch.
Dinner Option: Pair quiche with a warm bowl of tomato soup, a mixed greens salad, or grilled vegetables for an easy yet elegant dinner.
Casual Lunch: Enjoy quiche alongside a simple cucumber and tomato salad or a grain-based dish like quinoa or couscous for a balanced midday meal.
Holiday Spread: Quiche makes a fantastic addition to holiday brunch tables, pairing well with mimosas, freshly baked bread, and a selection of cheeses and charcuterie.

Storing and Reheating Quiche

One of the best things about quiche is how well it stores. If you make it ahead of time, here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration: After cooling, cover the quiche with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Quiche can be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, let the quiche cool completely, wrap it tightly in foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, reheat directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated quiche, warm it in an oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. It can also be enjoyed cold, which makes it a convenient grab-and-go meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making quiche is relatively straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final result:

Skipping the Pre-Bake: Not pre-baking the crust can lead to a soggy bottom, especially if using a wet filling like spinach or mushrooms.
Overcooking the Custard: The eggs should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle when removed from the oven. Overcooking can result in a rubbery texture.
Using Low-Fat Dairy: For the best texture, use full-fat cream, whole milk, or half-and-half rather than skim milk. Lower-fat alternatives may make the filling too watery.
Overloading the Fillings: While it’s tempting to add extra ingredients, too many fillings can prevent the custard from setting properly and make the quiche too dense.

Conclusion:

Quiche is a timeless dish that has earned its place in kitchens around the world. Its balance of rich, creamy filling and crisp, flaky crust makes it an irresistible choice for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. The ability to customize the fillings allows for endless creativity, making it a dish that never gets boring.

Whether you’re making a classic Quiche Lorraine or experimenting with new flavors, this dish is sure to impress family and friends. Easy to make ahead and perfect for any occasion, quiche is a must-have recipe in every home cook’s repertoire. Try this classic quiche recipe today and experience the delicious simplicity of this French-inspired dish!