Discover the joy of creating a Ham and Cheese Quiche Delight with this simple yet tantalizing recipe. Whether you're aiming to impress at a brunch or just craving something savory for dinner, this quiche brings together the classic flavors of ham and cheese in a wonderfully flaky crust. Let's dive into how you can make this timeless dish right in your kitchen.
What You’ll Need
Before we get started, make sure you have all the ingredients for your quiche:
- 1 pre-made pie crust, thawed if frozen
- 1 cup of diced ham
- 1 cup of grated cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyere work well)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of heavy cream or milk
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of fresh chives, chopped
- Optional: a dash of nutmeg or paprika for extra flavor
Steps to Create Your Quiche
Follow these straightforward steps to craft your delicious quiche:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Crust: Gently place your thawed pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Prick the base with a fork to prevent bubbling. Optionally, you can blind bake the crust for 10 minutes to ensure crispiness.
Layer Your Filling: Scatter the diced ham and grated cheese evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.
Mix the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream or milk, salt, pepper, and chives until well combined.
Pour Custard Over Filling: Pour the egg mixture over the ham and cheese, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Season the Top: If desired, sprinkle a bit of nutmeg or paprika for an additional touch of flavor.
Bake the Quiche: Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Use a toothpick to check the center; if it comes out clean, your quiche is ready.
Rest and Serve: Allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set, making it easier to serve.
Key Tips for Quiche Perfection
Here are some tips to make your quiche a showstopper:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, quality ham and cheese will elevate your quiche from good to extraordinary.
- Don’t Overfill: Fill your crust just shy of the top. This prevents overflow and makes for a cleaner bake.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Experiment with different cheeses or meats to suit your palette.
🍴 Note: Allowing the quiche to rest before serving helps the custard to firm up, ensuring slices hold their shape well.
Now that your Ham and Cheese Quiche Delight is baked to perfection, you've created not just a meal, but a memorable culinary experience. With its simplicity in ingredients and preparation, this quiche proves that delicious meals don't require complexity. Whether served hot from the oven or enjoyed as a delightful leftover, this quiche embodies comfort and satisfaction. So gather your loved ones, share this creation, and savor every bite of your homemade, flaky, and cheesy goodness. Enjoy!
Can I use a homemade pie crust for this quiche?
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Yes, you can definitely use a homemade pie crust if you prefer. Simply prepare your favorite pie crust recipe or follow one online, and proceed with the quiche recipe as usual.
How can I ensure my quiche does not have a soggy bottom?
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To avoid a soggy bottom, pre-bake (or blind bake) your pie crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. You can also place a baking sheet or another pie dish underneath to help distribute heat evenly.
What other fillings can I use?
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The possibilities are endless! Try combinations like spinach and feta, caramelized onion and goat cheese, or bacon and broccoli for a twist on the classic quiche.
