Bacon and Cheese Quiche: A Savory Slice of Comfort!

When it comes to hearty and satisfying dishes, few things compare to a freshly baked Bacon and Cheese Quiche.

This savory pie is the perfect blend of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a rich, creamy custard nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. Whether you’re planning a leisurely brunch, a light dinner, or a special occasion, this quiche can easily steal the show.

Not only does it come together with simple, everyday ingredients, but it also allows for endless variations.

You can enjoy it warm from the oven or even chilled for a flavorful leftover treat.

If you love the combination of savory bacon and gooey cheese, then this quiche will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

What Makes This Bacon and Cheese Quiche So Special?

There’s something truly irresistible about the combination of crispy bacon and melted cheese wrapped in a smooth custard filling. What makes this quiche stand out from other dishes is its balance of textures and flavors.

The bacon, perfectly crisped, adds a savory crunch, while the cheese creates a gooey, rich layer that complements the eggy custard filling. The result? A dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, yet light enough for a brunch or a quick dinner.

Versatility for Any Occasion

What sets this Bacon and Cheese Quiche apart is how versatile it is. It works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, or even as a light dinner option.

You can serve it with a side salad for a wholesome meal or pair it with fruits for a fresh contrast. Plus, you can easily customize the ingredients to suit your preferences—add in some spinach, mushrooms, or herbs like thyme or chives for an extra flavor boost.

Key Ingredients for Your Bacon and Cheese Quiche

The beauty of a great quiche lies in its simplicity. This recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients, many of which you probably already have on hand. However, the quality and balance of these ingredients are key to achieving the perfect quiche.

Bacon: The Heart of the Flavor

Bacon is undeniably the star of this quiche. It adds the perfect smoky, salty crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling. For the best results, choose thick-cut bacon. It holds up better in the quiche and ensures that each bite has a satisfying texture. After frying it up to crispy perfection, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces, so it distributes evenly throughout the quiche.

Cheese: A Melty Dream

The cheese selection is what gives the quiche its rich and creamy flavor. While you can’t go wrong with classic cheddar, using a mix of cheeses can elevate the taste. Gruyère and Swiss cheese are excellent choices because they melt beautifully and provide a slightly nutty flavor that complements the bacon. If you’re a fan of stronger flavors, try incorporating some sharp cheddar or Parmesan for an added kick.

Eggs and Cream: The Custard Base

Eggs and heavy cream are the foundation of any quiche, creating a luscious custard filling that holds everything together. The eggs provide structure, while the cream gives the quiche a silky texture. A mix of whole eggs and a splash of heavy cream ensures the quiche has that signature rich, velvety filling. For a slightly lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

The Crust: A Buttery, Flaky Base

The crust is just as important as the filling. You can go the easy route with a pre-made pie crust, or for a more homemade touch, make your own from scratch. Either way, ensure your crust is buttery and flaky, providing a perfect base to support the filling. A well-baked crust adds texture and helps balance the richness of the custard filling. If you’re looking to avoid a soggy bottom, consider blind-baking the crust before adding the filling.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

While bacon and cheese are the stars, this quiche can easily be adapted to your personal taste.

Consider adding some sautéed onions for a touch of sweetness or a handful of fresh spinach for some added color and nutrients.

Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can be sprinkled in for a burst of fragrance. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses or ingredients to make this quiche your own!

How to Prepare the Bacon and Cheese Quiche

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through each step of preparing your Bacon and Cheese Quiche. Don’t worry, this recipe is easy to follow and comes together quickly, ensuring you can serve a delicious, homemade dish in no time.

Step 1 – Prepare the Bacon

The first step to making a perfect Bacon and Cheese Quiche is ensuring your bacon is cooked to crispy perfection. This will give the quiche that smoky, savory flavor with the right amount of crunch.

1. Cook the bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add your bacon strips, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook the bacon until it’s crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. This usually takes around 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon.
2. Drain the bacon: Once the bacon is crispy, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Let it cool for a few minutes.
3. Chop the bacon: Once the bacon has cooled slightly, chop it into bite-sized pieces, making sure each piece is about the same size to ensure even distribution in the quiche.

Step 2 – Make the Custard Filling

The egg and cream mixture, or custard, is the heart of the quiche. It holds everything together and provides that silky texture we love in a good quiche.

1. Whisk the eggs and cream: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs and 1 cup of heavy cream. You can also substitute some of the cream with half-and-half for a lighter filling. The eggs and cream should be fully combined and smooth.
2. Season the custard: Season your custard with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs. A pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the flavors. Taste the custard and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Mix in the cheese: Stir in about 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and Gruyère is ideal). This will help the cheese melt evenly throughout the custard while baking.

Step 3 – Assemble the Quiche

Now comes the fun part—assembling your quiche! You’ll layer the ingredients and pour the custard over them, so they bake to golden perfection.

1. Prepare the crust: If you’re using a pre-made pie crust, simply place it into your pie dish. If you’re using a homemade crust, blind bake it for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) before filling it to avoid a soggy bottom.
2. Layer the bacon and cheese: Evenly distribute the chopped bacon across the base of the pie crust. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the bacon, ensuring an even layer.
3. Add the custard: Carefully pour the prepared egg and cream mixture over the bacon and cheese. You want to fill the crust nearly to the top, but leave a little space to prevent overflow during baking.

Step 4 – Baking the Quiche

Baking your quiche is where the magic happens. This is when the filling will set into a creamy, golden masterpiece, and the flavors will meld together.

1. Bake at 375°F (190°C): Place your quiche in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the quiche is golden brown on top and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be firm, but the center should still have a slight wobble—this means it’s perfectly cooked.
2. Cool before serving: Let your quiche cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to cut.

Tips for the Perfect Bacon and Cheese Quiche

A Bacon and Cheese Quiche is simple to make, but a few extra tips can help you elevate it to perfection. Here are some helpful pointers for creating a flawless quiche every time.

Bacon Preparation: Crispy Is Key

To ensure your bacon is the perfect texture, don’t rush it. Make sure to cook the bacon over medium heat so it crisps up without burning. If you want to cut down on grease, consider cooking the bacon in the oven at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This method evenly crisps the bacon and makes less of a mess.

Pro Tip: Save some bacon drippings to brush the edges of your crust for added flavor!

Preventing a Soggy Crust

A soggy bottom can ruin an otherwise perfect quiche. Here are a few strategies to avoid it:

1. Blind bake the crust: If you’re using a store-bought crust, it’s best to blind-bake it before adding the filling. This means baking it for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) before filling it with the custard. This step ensures the crust stays crisp and doesn’t absorb too much moisture from the custard.
2. Use a pie shield: If your crust edges start browning too quickly while baking, cover them with a pie shield or some foil to prevent burning.

Cheese: A Mix Makes It Better

While cheddar is the classic choice for quiche, consider using a combination of cheeses for a deeper, more complex flavor. Gruyère, Swiss, or even a touch of Parmesan add an extra layer of richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a bit of goat cheese can offer a tangy twist.

Pro Tip: Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded. Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a more creamy texture.

Flavor Variations: Customize Your Quiche

While bacon and cheese are the stars of this recipe, there are plenty of ways to get creative with your quiche:

• Add vegetables: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or onions add depth and color to the quiche.
• Herbs and spices: Fresh thyme, chives, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile.
• Try different meats: Swap the bacon for sausage, ham, or even prosciutto if you’re looking for variety.

Make-Ahead Tips

A Bacon and Cheese Quiche is great for preparing in advance. You can make it up to 24 hours before serving, store it in the fridge, and bake it the day you plan to serve it. Alternatively, you can bake the quiche ahead of time, let it cool, and reheat it in the oven before serving. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt that this Bacon and Cheese Quiche is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch, a light dinner, or a special gathering, its rich, savory flavors and flaky crust are sure to win hearts. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility—you can customize it to suit your tastes and dietary preferences while still maintaining the core, irresistible flavors.

The combination of crispy bacon, melty cheese, and the creamy custard filling makes this quiche a truly comforting dish. Don’t forget to serve it with a side salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal!

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making the perfect quiche, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking. We’re sure this will become a favorite in your home, whether enjoyed warm or as a delightful leftover.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this quiche without a crust?

Yes! You can make a crustless version of this Bacon and Cheese Quiche if you prefer a lighter, gluten-free option. Simply omit the pie crust and pour the filling directly into a greased pie dish. It will bake up just as deliciously, though it may not have the same crispy texture as the traditional version.

2. How do I store leftover quiche?

Store any leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also enjoy it cold for a quick snack or light meal.

3. Can I freeze Bacon and Cheese Quiche?

Absolutely! This quiche freezes beautifully. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

4. What’s the best cheese to use for this quiche?

Cheddar is the classic cheese choice for Bacon and Cheese Quiche, but a mix of cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or even a little Parmesan can add depth and complexity to the flavor. Experiment with different combinations to find what you like best!

5. Can I add vegetables to the quiche?

Yes! This quiche is highly customizable. You can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture from vegetables like spinach to prevent a soggy quiche. Adding herbs like thyme or chives can also enhance the flavor.