This Bacon and Cheese Quiche is warm, cheesy, and filled with crispy bacon. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner on a cozy day!
Honestly, who can say no to a flaky crust packed with cheesy goodness? I love enjoying it fresh from the oven paired with a green salad. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: A store-bought pie crust is convenient, but homemade is always a treat! If you’re gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free pie crust or even a hash brown crust for a fun twist.
Bacon: Traditional bacon is great for flavor, but you can swap it with turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon for a lighter option. Just note that cooking times may vary with different types.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a wonderful tang. If you want to mix it up, try using Swiss or Gruyère for a different flavor. Alternatively, mozzarella can be a milder choice.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are optional but add a pop of color. You can skip them or replace with spinach, bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for extra veggies.
Milk: If you’re avoiding dairy, consider almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk as alternatives. Just ensure they are unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced.
How Do I Make Sure My Quiche Sets Perfectly?
Getting the right texture in your quiche is key. Here are some tips to ensure it sets well and is not too runny:
- Use enough eggs: Four large eggs should do the trick, but you can add an extra egg for a firmer texture.
- Watch your baking time: Baking for 35-40 minutes is usually perfect, but keep an eye on it near the end, as every oven is different.
- Check for doneness: Insert a knife into the center after the time is up. It should come out clean; if it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes.
- Let it rest: Cooling for 10-15 minutes before slicing helps the quiche firm up for better slices.
Bacon and Cheese Quiche
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade pie crust, about 9 inches)
For the Filling:
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped cherry tomatoes (optional)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes to bake. You should also let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. All in all, you’re looking at about an hour for a tasty Bacon and Cheese Quiche!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your quiche bakes evenly and develops a lovely golden top!
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Place your pie crust in a 9-inch tart or pie pan. Crimp the edges nicely for a pretty finish and prick the bottom of the crust lightly with a fork to prevent bubbling.
3. Pre-Bake the Crust:
To avoid a soggy bottom, bake the crust for about 7-8 minutes until it’s just slightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool a little.
4. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they’re crispy. Once cooked, drain them on paper towels and chop them into small pieces.
5. Assemble the Filling:
Evenly sprinkle the cooked bacon over the bottom of your partially baked crust. Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the bacon. If you’re using cherry tomatoes, sprinkle those over the cheese for some added flavor and color.
6. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half (or whole milk), salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
7. Pour and Bake:
Carefully pour the egg mixture into the crust over the bacon, cheese, and tomatoes. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is lightly golden. You can check doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean or with just a little custard coating.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let your quiche cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help it firm up and make it easier to cut clean slices.
Enjoy this rich, savory quiche for breakfast, brunch, or anytime! The crispy bacon and melted cheese create a perfect filling inside the buttery flaky crust. Happy cooking!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese in This Quiche?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can substitute it with Swiss, Gruyère, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles. Just keep in mind that the cheese should melt well!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions. Just sauté them first to remove excess moisture before adding them to the quiche.
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftover quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.
Is This Quiche Freezable?
Yes, you can freeze the quiche! To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
