The Ultimate Quiche Recipe: Delicious and Versatile

Quiche is a classic dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. This savory pie, filled with eggs, cream, and your choice of ingredients, offers endless possibilities for customization. In this article, we’ll share a simple yet delicious quiche recipe, explore variations, provide tips for perfecting your quiche, and highlight some side dishes that pair beautifully with this delectable dish!

What is Quiche Recipe?

Quiche is a French dish that consists of a pastry crust filled with eggs, cream, cheese, and various meats or vegetables. Originating from the region of Lorraine in France, traditional quiche Lorraine features bacon and cheese. Over the years, quiche has evolved into a versatile dish enjoyed all around the world, with countless variations reflecting local tastes and ingredient availability.

Key Ingredients for Quiche Recipe

To make a classic quiche, you will need the following ingredients:

• Pie Crust: Store-bought or homemade. You can use a buttery shortcrust or puff pastry for a flaky texture.
• Eggs: About 4 to 6, depending on the size of your pie. Eggs are the main binding ingredient.
• Heavy Cream or Milk: 1 cup for a rich and creamy filling. Use half-and-half for an even richer flavor.
• Cheese: Grated cheese like Swiss, cheddar, goat cheese, or feta for added flavor.
• Vegetables: Spinach, onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or leeks are great choices. Make sure to sauté or cook them first to remove excess moisture.
• Protein: Options include cooked bacon, ham, sautéed mushrooms, crumbled sausage, or smoked salmon.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.

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Simple Quiche Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes to 1 hour
Servings: 6-8 slices

Ingredients:

• 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a blend)
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits or crumbled cooked sausage (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach or cooked vegetables (like mushrooms, bell peppers)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives, optional)

Instructions of Quiche Recipe:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pie Crust

• Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• Fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess edges.
• Prick the bottom with a fork a few times to prevent bubbling.
• Optional: Pre-bake the crust for 8-10 minutes if you prefer a crisper bottom; otherwise, proceed directly.

2. Prepare the Filling Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until smooth.
• Add the milk (or half-and-half), salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Whisk until well combined.

3. Assemble the Quiche

• Spread the shredded cheese evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie crust.
• Distribute the cooked bacon, sausage, and vegetables evenly over the cheese.
• Pour the egg mixture over the filling, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

4. Bake

• Place the quiche on the middle rack of the preheated oven.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden.

5. Cool and Serve

• Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes.
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.
• Slice into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.

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Popular Variations of Quiche Recipe

Quiche is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some popular variations to try:

1. Spinach and Feta Quiche

Ingredients:

• 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1/2 cup cooked and drained spinach)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, such as mozzarella or Swiss)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley (optional)

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Steps:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pie Crust

• Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• Fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges and prick the bottom with a fork a few times.
• For a crisper crust, pre-bake for 8-10 minutes; otherwise, proceed directly.

2. Sauté the Spinach and Onion

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
• Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted and any excess moisture has evaporated, about 2-3 minutes.
• Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture

• In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until well blended.
• Add the milk or half-and-half, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Whisk until combined.

4. Assemble the Quiche

• Spread crumbled feta cheese evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.
• Distribute the sautéed spinach and onion mixture over the feta.
• If using, sprinkle shredded cheese over the vegetables for extra flavor.
• Pour the egg mixture slowly over the filling, making sure it spreads evenly.

5. Bake

• Place the quiche on the middle rack of the oven.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
• Insert a knife or toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the quiche is ready.

6. Cool and Serve

• Remove from oven and let rest for about 10 minutes.
• Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness.
• Slice into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.

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2. Mushroom and Gruyère Quiche

Ingredients:

• 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix), sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme or rosemary (optional)
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

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Steps:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pie Crust

• Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• Fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, trim edges, and prick with a fork a few times.
• For a crisper crust, pre-bake for 8-10 minutes; otherwise, proceed directly.

2. Sauté Mushrooms and Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds.
• Toss in sliced mushrooms, salt, pepper, and herbs if using.
• Cook until mushrooms are browned and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Make Egg Mixture

• In a bowl, whisk eggs until smooth.
• Stir in heavy cream, a pinch of nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble the Quiche

• Spread grated Gruyère cheese evenly on the bottom of the crust.
• Distribute the sautéed mushrooms and onions over the cheese.
• Pour the egg mixture over the filling, making sure it’s evenly distributed.

5. Bake

• Place in the center of the oven.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.
• A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

6. Cool and Serve

• Let the quiche rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.

3. Smoked Salmon and Dill Quiche

Ingredients:

• 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 ounces smoked salmon, sliced into strips
• 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

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Steps:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pie Crust

• Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• Fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, trim edges, and prick with a fork.
• For a crisper crust, pre-bake for 8-10 minutes; skip if preferred.

2. Assemble the Filling

• Spread shredded cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust.
• Scatter chopped dill and green onions over the cheese.
• Arrange the smoked salmon slices evenly over the top.

3. Make the Egg Custard

• In a bowl, whisk eggs until smooth.
• Add heavy cream or half-and-half, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if using.
• Whisk until well combined.

4. Pour and Bake

• Carefully pour the egg mixture over the fillings in the crust.
• Place the quiche on the middle rack of the oven.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the filling is set and lightly golden.

5. Rest and Serve

• Let the quiche cool for about 10 minutes.
• Garnish with extra dill or chives if desired.
• Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

4. Bacon, Cheddar, and Onion Quiche

Ingredients tips for Quiche Recipe:

• 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 6 slices bacon
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)

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Steps tips for Bacon, Cheddar, and Onion Quiche Recipe:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pie Crust

• Preheat your oven to 375°F.
• Fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, trim excess edges, and prick the bottom with a fork.
• For a crisper crust, pre-bake for 8-10 minutes; skip this step if you prefer.

2. Cook the Bacon and Onions

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon slices until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble or chop into small pieces.
• In the bacon fat or a little oil, sauté the chopped onion until translucent and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Let both cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Filling

• Spread the shredded cheddar evenly over the pie crust.
• Distribute cooked bacon and sautéed onions evenly over the cheese.

4. Prepare the Egg Mixture

• In a bowl, whisk eggs until smooth.
• Add heavy cream or half-and-half, salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Whisk until combined.

5. Pour and Bake

• Carefully pour the egg mixture over the filling ingredients in the crust.
• Place the assembled quiche on the oven rack.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the filling is set, slightly golden on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Rest and Serve

• Let the quiche sit for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.

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Tips for Perfecting Your Quiche Recipe

Achieving the perfect quiche can be simple with a few helpful tips:

• Choose the Right Pastry: Flaky pastry is key. Using a store-bought crust can save time, but if you make your own, ensure it’s chilled.
• Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the quiche to prevent spilling over while cooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Pre-cook Vegetables: Ensure vegetables are sautéed before adding them to the quiche to reduce moisture and prevent a soggy crust.
• Let it Cool Before Slicing: Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps set the filling, making it easier to slice.
• Experiment with Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs, garlic powder, or nutmeg can enhance the flavor. Feel free to get creative!

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Serving Suggestions of Quiche Recipe

Quiche makes for a delightful main course, and it pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some excellent serving suggestions:

1. Serve Quiche Recipe with a Fresh Salad

• Pair your quiche with a crisp green salad—mixed greens, arugula, or spinach tossed with vinaigrette. The freshness balances the richness of the quiche.
• For more delicious salad ideas and recipes, explore our collection, including Sweet Potato Casserole and a hearty Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole!

2. Add a Light Appetizer or Soup to Quiche Recipe

• Start with a bowl of creamy tomato soup, gazpacho, or a seasonal vegetable soup to complement the meal.

3. Accompany Quiche Recipe with Fresh Vegetables

• Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or a medley of roasted root vegetables make a wholesome addition.

4. Offer a Bread Side

• Serve slices of crusty baguette, toasted sourdough, or breadsticks alongside for a satisfying crunch.

5. Pair Quiche Recipe with Fruit

• Light, fresh fruit like apple slices, berries, or a fruit salad adds a sweet contrast to the savory quiche.

6. Garnish Quiche Recipe for Extra Flavor

• Sprinkle chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or dill on top just before serving for freshness and visual appeal.

7. Serve Quiche Recipe with Beverages

• Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay), sparkling water with lemon, or a light iced tea.

8. Brunch or Picnic Setting

• Present slices on a platter with small bowls of dips or spreads like hollandaise, mustard, or chutney for added flavor options.

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Storing and Reheating Tips for Quiche Recipe

Storing tips for Quiche Recipe

• Refrigerate: Allow the quiche to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze quiche for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating tips for Quiche Recipe

• Oven: Reheat slices of quiche in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispness of the crust.
• Microwave: For a quick option, heat individual slices in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds. Note that this method may result in a softer crust.

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FAQs About the Quiche Recipe

Q1: How do I know when my quiche is fully cooked?
A1: Your quiche is done when the filling is set and slightly puffed, with a golden top. Insert a knife or toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready. Typically, baking for 40-45 minutes at 375°F works well.

Q2: Can I make this quiche recipe ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare the quiche up to a day in advance. Bake and cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes before serving.

Q3: Can I freeze the quiche recipe?
A3: Absolutely. Bake the quiche, let it cool, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and rewarm in the oven.

Q4: What are good variations to the basic quiche recipe?
A4: You can add cooked vegetables (like spinach or mushrooms), switch cheeses (Swiss, feta, cheddar), or include meats (bacon, ham). For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more veggies.

Q5: What side dishes go well with the quiche recipe?
A5: Serve with mixed greens, a fresh fruit salad, toasted bread, or a light soup for a complete meal.

Q6: Is the quiche recipe suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dinner?
A6: Absolutely! This versatile quiche recipe works great for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. It’s perfect for any occasion.

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Final Thoughts on the Quiche Recipe

The quiche recipe is a timeless, versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. Its rich, savory flavors combined with a crispy crust and customizable fillings make it a crowd-pleaser and an excellent choice for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Whether you prefer classic combinations like bacon and cheddar or innovative options like spinach and feta, this recipe is easy to adapt to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Best of all, its make-ahead and freezer-friendly features help streamline mealtime and reduce stress. Give this delicious quiche a try—it’s sure to become a favorite staple in your recipe collection!

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