Best Quiche Recipe Ever
Introduction
Rich, creamy filling and a crisp golden crust make quiche a timeless favorite in kitchens around the world. A well-made quiche feels both indulgent and comforting. It brings together simple ingredients—eggs, cream, cheese, and a variety of fillings—to create a satisfying dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner. Many home cooks love quiche because it can be made ahead and easily customized. You can bake it on a Sunday and enjoy it all week or serve it fresh for special occasions. Every bite of a good quiche should offer a balance between silky custard and flavorful add-ins. The key lies in not overbaking so the center stays tender while the edges turn just firm. Whether you use vegetables, meats, or seafood, the combination should feel harmonious. Creating the best quiche recipe ever is not about complicated techniques but thoughtful ingredients and gentle cooking. This guide gives you a solid foundation along with ideas to elevate your own version and delight your friends and family.
Ingredients Needed
Here is the list of ingredients for the best quiche, serving six people. Calorie counts are estimated per ingredient based on standard nutritional values.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Pie crust, store bought or homemade | 1 (9 inch) | 800 |
| Frozen spinach (thawed and drained) | 1 cup | 40 |
| Cooked bacon or ham (chopped) | 1 cup | 300 |
| Grated Swiss or Gruyere cheese | 1 cup | 440 |
| Large eggs | 5 | 350 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 800 |
| Milk (whole or 2 percent) | 1/2 cup | 75 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | 2 |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | 2 |
Total estimated calories: 2,809
Calories per serving (6 servings): Approximately 468
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prebake the pie crust
Roll out your pie crust and press it into a 9 inch pie dish. Line it with parchment and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in a 375 degree Fahrenheit oven for 12 minutes. Remove weights and bake another 3 minutes until it starts to look set. This prevents a soggy bottom and ensures even cooking.
2. Prep fillings
While the crust bakes, squeeze excess water from thawed spinach using a kitchen towel. Chop cooked bacon or ham into small pieces. Grate cheese and set aside.
3. Make egg custard
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth. Nutmeg adds a warm note that complements the richness.
4. Assemble quiche
Sprinkle spinach evenly over the prebaked crust. Add bacon or ham, then layer cheese on top. Pour the egg mixture gently over the filling. Take care not to overfill so the custard does not spill.
5. Bake until set
Return quiche to the oven at 375. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The center should be slightly jiggly with a light golden color. Avoid overbaking—the filling will continue to firm as it cools. If the crust starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the edges with foil.
6. Cool before slicing
Let the quiche rest on the countertop for 10 to 15 minutes before cutting. Cooling allows the custard to finish setting and makes slicing neater. Cut into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Vegetable variations
Try asparagus, mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli. Sauté firmer vegetables briefly to remove excess moisture and concentrate flavor. - Protein choices
Swap bacon for prosciutto, crumbled sausage, or cooked smoked salmon. All pair beautifully with cheese and custard. - Cheese selection
Swiss and Gruyere are classic. Try sharp cheddar, goat cheese crumbles, or feta for new taste dimensions. - Crust options
Use a gluten free or almond flour based crust for dietary needs. For a lighter version, skip the crust entirely and make a crustless version baked in a spring form pan. - Dairy alternatives
Substitute half and half or whole milk for cream for fewer calories. Use lactose free milk or plant-based blends if needed. - Herb additions
Fresh thyme, chives, parsley, or tarragon add brightness. Sprinkle over the top just before serving. - Spice twist
Add a pinch of smoked paprika, cayenne, or dried oregano for small bursts of flavor. - Portion guidance
Bake in mini tart pans or muffin tins to create individual servings for buffets or packed lunches. - Storage and reheating
Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slices at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes or microwave gently to preserve custard texture.
Nutritional Information
Estimated nutrition for a single 1/6 slice of quiche made with full dairy:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 468 |
| Protein | 18 grams |
| Fat | 36 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 19 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Cholesterol | 210 mg |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
Using a lighter crust, yogurt in place of cream, or lean protein can reduce fat and calories while maintaining rich flavor.
Serving Suggestions
The best quiche stands well on its own but shines alongside simple sides. Serve with a crisp mixed green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for contrast. Fresh fruit such as berries or melon adds natural sweetness and color. A slice pairs well with roasted potatoes or herbed bean salad for heartier meals.
Quiche makes a lovely addition to brunch spreads and buffet tables. Serve it alongside baked ham, smoked salmon, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For picnics or gatherings, offer cold slices wrapped in parchment or placed on a platter.
Pair the quiche with crisp white wine or sparkling rosé. For breakfast or lunch, a light herbal tea or fruity black tea complements the creamy texture. A simple lemonade or spritzer brightens the table on warm days.
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Conclusion
Creating the best quiche recipe ever comes down to quality ingredients, balanced fillings, and careful baking. With a flaky crust, creamy custard, and thoughtful add-ins like spinach, bacon, and cheese, this quiche delivers flavor and satisfaction across meals. Customizing it with vegetables, proteins, or cheese lets you tailor it to your mood and pantry. Serve warm or cold, at casual brunches or elegant dinners, and enjoy every bite. The quiche you make today will inspire new versions tomorrow, becoming a reliable and beloved recipe in your kitchen repertoire.
