Welcome to your new favorite recipe for a truly satisfying meal: the Classic Ham and Cheese Quiche! This iconic dish, with its tender, savory filling nestled in a flaky crust, is a versatile star on any table. Whether you're planning an elegant brunch, a cozy breakfast, or a fuss-free dinner, this Ham and Cheese Quiche delivers comfort and flavor in every slice. Its simple preparation makes it approachable for home cooks of all levels, and its rich taste ensures it'll be requested time and again.
Quiche has a fascinating history, tracing its origins back to medieval German cuisine, eventually finding its famous form in France as 'Quiche Lorraine'. You can learn more about the history of quiche and its evolution into the beloved dish we know today. My version focuses on the timeless combination of diced ham and luscious cheese, creating a harmonious balance that's hard to resist.
Why This Ham and Cheese Quiche Will Become a Staple
- Effortless Elegance: It looks impressive but requires minimal effort.
- Breakfast, Brunch, or Dinner: Versatile enough for any meal of the day.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the ham, cheese, and even add vegetables to suit your preference.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake when ready!
Forget complicated recipes; this Ham and Cheese Quiche is all about simple ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious. And if you're looking for more cheesy goodness to pair with it, perhaps try our Crispy Cottage Cheese Chips as a crunchy side!
Ingredients You'll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to quiche perfection. Here's what you'll need for this classic:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
For best results, aim for good quality ham and cheese. The fresher the ingredients, the more vibrant your quiche will taste! You might even have some leftover ham from another meal, making this a fantastic way to use it up. And speaking of delightful breakfast options, you might also enjoy our recipe for Sausage Egg Breakfast Roll-Ups.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Perfect Quiche
Ready to create a masterpiece? Follow these simple steps for a golden, bubbly Ham and Cheese Quiche.
Tips for Success
- Don't Overmix: When whisking the eggs and cream, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher quiche.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs and cream at room temperature often blend more smoothly and cook more evenly.
- Protect the Crust: If your pie crust edges are browning too quickly, loosely cover them with aluminum foil during the last part of baking.
Variations to Explore
This recipe is a fantastic base for creativity! Consider these ideas:
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the ham and load up on sautéed vegetables like asparagus, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a subtle kick.
- Herb Garden Freshness: Incorporate fresh chives, parsley, or dill for an aromatic boost.
Storage and Reheating
This quiche is great for meal prepping! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave for a quick warm-up, but for a crispier crust, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Conclusion
This Classic Ham and Cheese Quiche is more than just a recipe; it's an invitation to enjoy delicious, homemade comfort food any time of day. With its ease of preparation and satisfying flavors, it's sure to become a beloved favorite in your culinary repertoire. Don't hesitate to make it your own with your favorite additions. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delightful bite!
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this quiche?
Absolutely! While Swiss and cheddar are classic, feel free to experiment with Gruyu00e8re, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked Gouda for a unique flavor twist. A blend of cheeses works wonderfully too.
What's the best way to prevent a soggy quiche crust?
To avoid a soggy crust, pre-bake (blind bake) your pie crust for about 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. Also, make sure your filling isn't too liquidy, and don't overfill the crust.
Can I add vegetables to my Ham and Cheese Quiche?
Yes, adding vegetables is a great idea! Sautu00e9ed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of chopped scallions would complement the ham and cheese beautifully. Just make sure to cook them lightly before adding to the filling to remove excess moisture.
How long does leftover quiche last and how should I reheat it?
Leftover Ham and Cheese Quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 300u00b0F (150u00b0C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is quicker but may affect the crust's texture.
Classic Ham and Cheese Quiche
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make quiche featuring a savory filling of ham, rich cheese, and creamy eggs in a flaky pie crust.
Ingredients
1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch, store-bought or homemade)
6 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
1 cup diced ham
1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or a blend)
1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently against the bottom and sides. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined.
Step 4: Stir in the diced ham, shredded cheese, and chopped onion (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 7: Allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
For an extra crispy crust, blind bake the pie crust for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture for a traditional touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
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