As the comforting aroma of baked quiche wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of nostalgia. This Best Quiche Recipe, featuring savory ham and creamy Gruyère cheese, is an ode to effortless brunch gatherings and cozy weekday breakfasts alike. Not only is this classic quiche a versatile dish that can adapt to your pantry’s offerings—like swapping in sautéed vegetables or a cheese of your choice—it also boasts a quick preparation time, letting you whip it up in no time! Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to something special, this quiche is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and spark joy. What creative twist will you add to your rendition?
Why is this quiche recipe a must-try?
Versatile Delight: This quiche is endlessly adaptable, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients—think cheesy bacon quiche or a vibrant spinach and asparagus version.
Quick Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have a stunning quiche ready in no time, perfect for last-minute brunch plans.
Impressive Flavor: The rich Gruyère cheese combined with savory ham creates a flavor explosion that your guests will rave about, leaving them asking for seconds.
Perfect for Any Meal: Serve it warm for breakfast, room temperature for lunch, or even cold as a late-night snack. It’s delightful any way you dish it up!
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this quiche a day in advance for even better flavor, like our popular Sausage Rigatoni Dish. You can easily store leftovers for busy days, ensuring delightful meals are always within reach!
Best Quiche Recipe Ingredients
For the Crust
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the crust; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Basic pie dough – Forms the base of the quiche; store-bought offers convenience, while homemade adds a personal touch.
For the Filling
• Eggs (4, 2 separated, 2 whole) – Acts as a binding agent and gives creamy texture; separating eggs helps create a lighter filling.
• Heavy cream (3/4 cup) – Contributes to the richness of the filling; swap with half and half for a lighter version.
• Whole milk (3/4 cup) – Balances the cream for ideal consistency; plant-based milk can be used for a dairy-free choice.
• Kosher salt (3/4 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor; be sure to adjust based on your taste preferences.
• Black pepper (1/4 tsp) – Adds a hint of spice to the filling.
For the Meaty Goodness
• Cooked ham steak (6 oz, finely chopped) – Provides a savory depth; deliciously substitute with cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables if desired.
For the Cheese
• Shredded Gruyère (3 oz) – Brings creaminess and melty goodness; feel free to swap with Cheddar or your favorite cheese.
For the Fresh Touch
• Chives (1/4 cup, thinly sliced) – Brightens the dish with a fresh onion flavor; scallions are a great alternative if you prefer.
This Best Quiche Recipe is not just delicious but also allows for endless customization! Don’t hesitate to get creative with your favorite ingredients.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by rolling out your chilled pie dough on a floured surface until it’s about an eighth of an inch thick. Transfer it gently to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing the dough into the edges. Trim any excess dough hanging over the sides, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to ensure it’s well-chilled and flaky when baked.
Step 2: Blind Bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once your pie crust has chilled, line it with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges are slightly golden and set. This crucial step ensures your crust stays crisp once filled, preventing any sogginess in your ultimate classic quiche.
Step 3: Brush and Finish Baking the Crust
Remove the pie weights and parchment from the crust carefully. Brush the bottom and sides of the crust with the two separated egg whites to create a moisture barrier. Return the crust to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked through and lightly golden on the surface.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the two whole eggs and two egg yolks until blended smoothly. Gradually add in the heavy cream and whole milk, mixing until you achieve a creamy consistency. Season the mixture with kosher salt and black pepper for flavor, ensuring every bite of your best quiche recipe is perfectly seasoned.
Step 5: Assemble the Quiche
Sprinkle the finely chopped cooked ham evenly across the bottom of your pre-baked crust, followed by the shredded Gruyère cheese and sliced chives. Pour the creamy egg mixture over the top, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. This combination creates a rich, satisfying filling that complements the flaky crust beautifully.
Step 6: Bake the Quiche
Once assembled, bake your quiche in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Look for the filling to be puffed up and lightly golden, with a gentle jiggle in the center. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while the filling continues to set.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After baking, let your ultimate classic quiche cool on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the filling to firm up, making it easier to slice. Serve warm or at room temperature, and savor each delectable bite of your homemade masterpiece!
What to Serve with Ultimate Classic Quiche with Gruyère and Ham
Savor the essence of a delightful brunch with perfectly paired dishes that elevate your quiche experience.
- Mixed Green Salad: A vibrant salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the quiche, balancing flavors beautifully.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and lemon zest adds a pop of color and a lovely earthy note that complements the savory filling.
- Herb-Infused Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread infused with fresh herbs for a delightful textural contrast that’s perfect for soaking up every bit of the creamy filling.
- Savory Fruit Compote: A sweet and tangy fruit compote, like cranberry or fig, beautifully contrasts with the quiche’s savory elements, creating a unique taste experience.
- Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine or champagne enhances your brunch affair, adding a touch of elegance to every bite.
- Fresh Fruit Platter: Brighten your table with a selection of seasonal fruits for a refreshing, light side that balances the meal’s richness, leaving you satisfied yet wanting more.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layered with granola and fresh berries, these parfaits provide a creamy, slightly sweet element that pairs flawlessly with the savory quiche.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden-brown, seasoned potato wedges offer a hearty addition, providing a comforting and familiar addition to your brunch spread.
Best Quiche Recipe Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you make this quiche your own with delightful tweaks!
-
Vegetarian Twist: Substitute the ham with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a colorful, meat-free option.
Imagine a medley of vibrant veggies bursting with flavor tucked into that golden crust! -
Cheesy Bacon Quiche: Swap ham for crispy, crumbled bacon and add a blend of Cheddar for extra zest.
The smoky aroma of bacon paired with melty cheese takes this dish to a whole new level! -
Crustless Delight: Eliminate the crust entirely for a gluten-free version by simply greasing the pie dish.
This is a fantastic option if you want a lighter, yet still wonderfully creamy, meal. -
Herbed Harmony: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist that elevates every bite.
Each forkful brings a fragrant burst of garden-fresh flavors that will enchant your senses. -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat to transform your quiche.
Balance the richness of the creamy filling with a pleasant spice that’s sure to give your brunch a thrill! -
Mediterranean Flare: Incorporate diced sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta for a tangy Mediterranean spin.
The combination of salty and sweet flavors dances beautifully together, creating a taste sensation! -
Seasonal Scents: Embrace the seasons by adding fresh asparagus in spring or roasted butternut squash in fall.
This quiche not only reflects the bounty of nature but also highlights the joy of seasonal cooking. -
Plant-Based Pleasure: Replace dairy ingredients with almond or oat milk, and use a vegan cheese alternative for a plant-based delight.
Enjoy the heartiness of this dish without the dairy indulgence, allowing everyone to join the feast!
This Best Quiche Recipe allows for endless possibilities that can turn a simple brunch into a delightful adventure! Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal or consider pairing with a luscious Stuffed Pepper Casserole for a hearty celebration.
Make Ahead Options
These make-ahead strategies for the Best Quiche Recipe are a game-changer for busy cooks! You can prepare the pie crust and filling components separately up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, blind bake the crust and once cooled, cover it tightly and refrigerate. For the filling, whisk together the eggs, cream, and seasonings, store in an airtight container, and refrigerate as well. When you’re ready to finish, simply sprinkle the ham and cheese into the crust, pour over the egg mixture, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, delicious quiche with minimal effort on your busy mornings!
How to Store and Freeze Best Quiche Recipe
Fridge: Store leftover quiche in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy cold or reheat gently in the oven to restore its original texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled quiche tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the thawed quiche in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This keeps the crust nice and crisp!
Make-Ahead: Feel free to prepare this best quiche recipe a day in advance. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
Expert Tips for Best Quiche Recipe
Chill Your Dough: Keep the pie crust cold to ensure flakiness; warm dough can lead to a tough crust.
Blind Baking Essential: Do not skip the blind baking step—it’s crucial for preventing a soggy bottom in your best quiche recipe.
Cool Before Slicing: Allow the quiche to cool slightly before slicing. This helps the filling set up nicely, resulting in clean cuts.
Make It Ahead: Consider preparing your quiche a day in advance for enhanced flavors—refrigerated quiche often tastes better the next day!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and quality cheese for the best flavor infusion in your filling; it makes a noticeable difference!
Best Quiche Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my quiche?
Absolutely! For the best quiche recipe, choose fresh eggs for a richer flavor and avoid those with dark spots. When selecting ham, look for thick-cut steaks that are not overly processed, and for cheese, opt for aged Gruyère for an optimal melting experience. If you prefer a healthier twist, feel free to substitute with lean turkey ham or pack in some sautéed seasonal vegetables.
What’s the best way to store leftover quiche?
Very! Leftover quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its texture, consider reheating it in the oven instead of the microwave. Just pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I freeze the quiche for later use?
Yes! To freeze your best quiche recipe, make sure it’s completely cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes for a crisp crust and perfectly warmed filling.
My quiche filling didn’t set properly; what did I do wrong?
Oh no! If your quiche filling didn’t set, it could be due to underbaking. Make sure to bake it until the center is just slightly jiggly, as it will continue to firm up as it cools. Additionally, ensure that your oven is properly calibrated—investing in an oven thermometer can help with accuracy. If you’re using a lot of vegetables, they can also release moisture; consider pre-cooking them to reduce liquid content.
Can I make a gluten-free version of this quiche?
Absolutely! To turn this best quiche recipe into a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend or use a crustless version by greasing the pie dish well and pouring in the filling directly. You can even load it with your favorite veggies and enjoy the creamy goodness without any gluten!
Best Quiche Recipe That Will Elevate Your Brunch Game
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the pie crust by rolling out the chilled pie dough on a floured surface. Transfer to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing the dough into the edges. Trim any excess dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the chilled crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15-20 minutes until edges are slightly golden.
- Remove pie weights and parchment. Brush the crust with two separated egg whites and return to the oven for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the two whole eggs and two egg yolks. Gradually add heavy cream and whole milk, mixing until creamy. Season with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Sprinkle chopped ham across the bottom of the pre-baked crust, followed by Gruyère cheese and sliced chives. Pour the egg mixture over evenly.
- Bake assembled quiche for 30-35 minutes until puffed and lightly golden with a gentle jiggle in the center. Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.
- Let the quiche cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
