Homestyle Bacon and Cheese Quiche

There are certain recipes that, when made, instantly transform a meal into a cherished experience, and Homestyle Bacon and Cheese Quiche is one such dish. This quiche, with its buttery crust, savory bacon, and creamy cheese filling, evokes warmth and comfort reminiscent of family gatherings and cozy weekend brunches.

Growing up, I fondly remember Sunday mornings filled with the aroma of bacon sizzling on the stovetop and the excitement of brunch being served. My mother would often prepare a quiche, and it quickly became a family favorite. The recipe was simple yet incredibly satisfying, turning an ordinary weekend into something special. As I grew older, I began to appreciate not just the taste but the effort that went into making it. Now, preparing this quiche has become a tradition in my own home, bringing the same sense of joy and comfort to my family.

Today, I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, allowing you to create your own memorable meals. This Homestyle Bacon and Cheese Quiche is not only a feast for the palate but also a celebration of togetherness, offering a delightful way to gather around the table and enjoy a meal that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For the Quiche:

1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

8 slices of bacon, chopped

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

4 large eggs

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup whole milk

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pie Crust

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your quiche will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Prepare the Pie Crust: Place your pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. If you’re using a store-bought crust, simply fit it into the pan. For homemade crusts, carefully roll out your dough and press it into the pan, crimping the edges for a decorative touch. This forms the base for your quiche and adds a delicious, buttery flavor.

2. Cook the Bacon

Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook 8 slices of chopped bacon until they are crisp and golden brown. The bacon should be well-cooked but not burnt, as this adds a rich, smoky flavor to the quiche.

Drain Bacon: Once the bacon is crispy, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess grease. This step helps to keep the quiche from becoming too greasy and ensures a better texture.

3. Assemble the Quiche

Layer the Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bottom of the prepared pie crust. This forms a cheesy base layer. Next, evenly distribute the crispy bacon over the cheese, ensuring it’s spread out to give every bite a bit of bacon.

Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of whole milk, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. This mixture creates the custard-like filling that binds the bacon and cheese together. Whisk until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.

Pour the Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the bacon and cheese layers in the pie crust. This ensures that the quiche filling is evenly distributed and all the ingredients are well-coated.

Add the Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the egg mixture. If you’re using fresh parsley, scatter 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and a hint of fresh flavor.

4. Bake the Quiche

Bake: Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The quiche is done when the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating that the custard is fully cooked.

Cool Slightly: Allow the quiche to cool slightly before serving. This not only helps the quiche to set properly but also makes it easier to cut into clean slices.

Variations and Tips

Vegetable Additions: For a nutritional boost, consider adding diced vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Simply sauté them before adding them to the quiche to ensure they’re tender and to remove excess moisture.

Meat Alternatives: If bacon isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with diced ham, cooked sausage, or even a combination of these. Each will bring its unique flavor to the quiche.

Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese adds a nice sharp flavor, you can use other types of cheese like Swiss, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a different taste profile. Mixing cheeses can also enhance the flavor complexity.

Lactose-Free Options: For those who are lactose intolerant, use lactose-free milk and cream. You can also opt for lactose-free cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Crust Alternatives: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust or make a crustless quiche. To make a crustless quiche, simply skip the crust and pour the mixture directly into a greased pie pan.

Conclusion

Homestyle Bacon and Cheese Quiche is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and a testament to the joys of home cooking. Its combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and a perfectly baked crust makes it a versatile meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. The recipe’s simplicity, coupled with its rich and satisfying flavors, makes it a wonderful choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Whether you’re gathering with family, hosting a brunch, or simply indulging in a comforting meal, this quiche brings a touch of warmth and joy to the table. Each bite of this quiche is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life and the happiness that comes from sharing a delicious homemade meal. Enjoy the process of making it, savor the flavors, and let it become a cherished part of your cooking repertoire.