Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe
The savory aroma of freshly baked quiche, especially a classic Ham and Cheese Quiche, is simply irresistible. This delightful dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also makes you the star host of any breakfast or brunch occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home-cooking enthusiast, mastering this recipe will elevate your culinary skills.
My love for this quiche began in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. Sunday mornings were our special time when I, armed with a whisk, would help her prepare the quiche. Her secret ingredient—love—turned simple ingredients like ham and cheese into a memorable family tradition. Even today, as I bake this quiche, I can feel her presence and warmth, making it much more than just a recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. You’ll appreciate the creamy texture and rich flavors of the ham and cheese that provide a comforting balance for any meal. It’s perfect for meal prep, as the quiche can be served hot or cold, making it an ideal grab-and-go breakfast option. Furthermore, it’s a brilliant way to use up leftovers, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Ingredients Notes
To achieve the best flavor, opt for high-quality ham and your favorite aged cheese. For those avoiding pork, turkey or chicken ham are excellent substitutes. You’ll also need eggs, milk, and heavy cream for the custard base to achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, prepare your pie crust. Roll it out into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it covers all sides evenly. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling and set aside.
Step 2
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced ham until it’s lightly browned. This enhances the flavor and ensures the ham is not watery when cooked in the quiche.
Step 3
Shred the cheese of your choice and set half aside. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and the sautéed ham evenly over the pie crust. These should form an even layer to ensure a consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 4
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and cream. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, earthy undertone. Carefully pour this mixture over the ham and cheese in the pie crust.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes. In the last 10 minutes of baking, add the remaining cheese on top to create a delightful, golden crust. Once baked, let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Storage Options
After cooling, cover the quiche tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian twist, replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, substitute regular milk and cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream. Experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère or feta for a unique flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this quiche without a crust?
Absolutely! A crustless quiche is a great low-carb option. Simply prepare the filling as described and bake it in a greased quiche dish. It may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on the oven.
2. How can I prevent my quiche from being soggy?
To avoid a soggy quiche, blind bake the pie crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This ensures a firmer base. Additionally, ensure your fillings are not too moist by patting dry ingredients like ham or veggies.
3. Can I prepare the quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pour the mixture into the pie crust and proceed with baking as directed.
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Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped ham preferably smoked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 4 large eggs beaten
- 1 pinch salt to taste
- 1 pie crust pre-baked
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt, ham, and cheese.
- Pour the mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until the quiche is set and slightly golden on top.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
