This ham and cheese quiche is a savory dish that combines a flaky crust with a rich filling of eggs, cream, ham, and cheese. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.
The recipe is simple and can be customized with your choice of vegetables or different types of cheese. It’s a great way to use up leftover ham and can be served warm or at room temperature.
Creating the Perfect Ham and Cheese Quiche
Crafting a ham and cheese quiche is a delightful experience that brings together a flaky crust and a rich, creamy filling. The combination of eggs, diced ham, and melted cheese creates a savory dish that is perfect for any meal of the day.
To start, selecting a quality pie crust is essential. Whether you choose to make your own or opt for a pre-made version, the crust sets the foundation for this dish. A golden-brown crust not only adds texture but also enhances the overall flavor of the quiche.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this quiche lies in its simplicity. The main ingredients include eggs, cream, and ham, which come together to create a fluffy filling. Adding cheese, such as Swiss or cheddar, elevates the dish with a creamy richness.
Optional ingredients like onions can introduce an additional layer of flavor, making the quiche even more satisfying. Fresh parsley as a garnish not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that complements the savory elements.
Preparation Steps to Follow
Begin by preheating your oven to the right temperature, ensuring that the quiche bakes evenly. Pre-baking the crust for a short time helps achieve that perfect golden color and prevents it from becoming soggy.
While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs and cream, then mix in the diced ham and cheese. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together before pouring the mixture into the crust.
Baking to Perfection
Once the filling is ready, pour it into the pre-baked crust and place it in the oven. The baking time is key; you want the quiche to be set and lightly browned on top. Keeping an eye on it during the last few minutes can help achieve that perfect finish.
After baking, let the quiche cool for a few minutes. This resting period allows the filling to firm up slightly, making slicing easier and cleaner.
Serving Suggestions
Presenting the quiche can be just as enjoyable as making it. A simple setting with a fork and a small salad creates an inviting atmosphere for a meal. The slice cut out from the quiche reveals its fluffy interior, making it visually appealing.
Serve the quiche warm or at room temperature, allowing guests to enjoy it at their leisure. Pairing it with a light salad can balance the richness of the quiche, making for a delightful dining experience.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is essential. The quiche can be kept in the refrigerator for a few days, making it a convenient option for quick meals. Reheating in the oven helps retain its texture, ensuring that each slice remains delicious.
This ham and cheese quiche is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a favorite for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
Delicious Ham and Cheese Quiche
This quiche features a buttery crust filled with a creamy mixture of eggs, diced ham, and shredded cheese, baked until golden. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a total cooking time of 45 minutes, serving 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Swiss or cheddar)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Crust: Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and prick the bottom with a fork. Pre-bake the crust for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in the diced ham, shredded cheese, and onion if using.
- Combine and Pour: Pour the filling mixture into the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is lightly browned.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 slices
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 24g
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
