My love affair with quiche began during a trip to the French countryside, where every bite seemed to tell a story of tradition and warmth. Back home, I wanted to recreate that feeling, and Bacon Quiche Lorraine was the perfect answer. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like an accomplished chef, even if you’re just casually tossing things together in the kitchen. Its simplicity is its charm, allowing the bacon’s smoky flavor to shine through, enhanced by a hint of nutmeg and a little kick from dry mustard. The magic happens when the custard sets just right, creating a silky texture that melts away stress and brings comfort with every bite.
This recipe doesn’t just fill your stomach; it fills your home with warmth and love. It’s a dish that invites conversation, laughter, and maybe even a second helping. When I serve it, I often find myself reminiscing about that quaint French village and the hospitality of its people. And as the plates pile up in the sink, I know I’ve shared not just a meal, but also a piece of that cherished memory with my family.
So, whether you’re planning a brunch with friends or just want a delightful breakfast, I urge you to give this Bacon Quiche Lorraine a try. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to bring smiles all around. Yet again, food has its way of connecting hearts and creating moments that linger long after the last crumb is gone. Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of making this delightful dish!
How to Make Bacon Quiche Lorraine
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Ingredients:
- 1 pie crust, 9-inch
- 4 slices bacon
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/3 cups milk
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
Directions:
- Set your oven to a warm 450°F. Slide the pie crust in for a brief 5-minute bake. Once the time’s up, bring the oven down to a cozy 400°F.
- Next, cook the bacon until it reaches that perfect crispy state. Drain and crumble it up for later.
- In the same pan, sauté the onions in the leftover bacon fat until they turn translucent, then remove any surplus fat.
- Spread the crumbled bacon and sautéed onions evenly at the bottom of the pie crust, then generously layer with the shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a separate bowl, blend the beaten eggs with milk, adding in salt, dry mustard, white pepper, and nutmeg for a flavorful mix.
- Pour this creamy egg mixture over the cheese in your prepared pie crust.
- Bake it for 10 minutes at 400°F, then lower the temperature to 350°F. Continue baking for 30 to 35 minutes or until a knife poked into the center comes out clean.
- Serve warm or let it cool—it’s delightful either way and perfect for any brunch setting!
Don’t Have Bacon? Here’s What to Use Instead
If bacon isn’t your thing or you simply ran out, fear not! You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or even ham for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, try using sautéed mushrooms or spinach to add a hearty flavor without compromising on taste.
Best Ways to Store Bacon Quiche Lorraine Leftover
Leftover quiche is a treat within itself. To store it, simply cover the quiche with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, then refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to three days. For a longer storage option, freeze the quiche in individual slices and reheat them in the oven when the craving strikes.
Perfect Pairings for Bacon Quiche Lorraine
This quiche pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad lightly drizzled with vinaigrette. For drinks, consider serving it with a crisp glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea. Fresh fruit, like berries or melon slices, also complement the rich flavors of the quiche, making it a perfect brunch spread.
Secrets to Perfecting Bacon Quiche Lorraine
To ensure your quiche is a hit every time, pre-bake the pie crust to prevent a soggy bottom. Also, let the quiche rest a bit after baking, so the custard sets perfectly. For an enhanced flavor, consider grating some fresh nutmeg over the top before baking.
Adding a Seasonal Spin to Bacon Quiche Lorraine
In the spring, toss in some fresh asparagus or peas. Come summer, add sun-dried tomatoes and basil. When autumn rolls around, diced butternut squash will add a delightful sweetness. Winter calls for heartier fare, so sprinkle in some rosemary and caramelized onions for a cozy touch.
FAQs:
What’s the best cheese for a quiche?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for quiche, offering a sharp and creamy texture. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Swiss for a different flavor profile. Each cheese adds its distinct character to the dish, making it versatile and customizable.
Can I make this quiche crustless?
Absolutely! To make a crustless quiche, simply grease the pie dish well before adding your ingredients. This will allow you to enjoy all the flavors without the crust, making it a low-carb and gluten-free option that still satisfies your brunch cravings.
How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?
The quiche is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, your quiche is ready. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing to ensure perfect slices.
Can I prepare the quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quiche a day in advance. After baking, let it cool, then cover and refrigerate. Before serving, reheat it in a 350°F oven until warmed through. This makes it an excellent choice for stress-free brunches or holiday gatherings.
What can I serve alongside quiche for brunch?
A bright fruit salad or mixed green salad pairs wonderfully with quiche. For something more indulgent, consider flaky croissants or a fresh baguette. Complement your meal with beverages like mimosas, coffee, or freshly squeezed juice for a complete dining experience.
Is quiche suitable for freezing?
Yes, quiche can be frozen for up to three months. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in a preheated oven until heated through.
Bacon Quiche Lorraine
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pie crust
- 4 slices bacon
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs beaten
- 1 1/3 cups milk
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F.
- Place the pie crust into the oven and bake for around 5 minutes. After this, remove it and decrease the oven temperature to 400°F.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until it becomes crispy. Once done, drain the excess fat and crumble it.
- In the remaining bacon fat, sauté the chopped onion until it turns translucent, and then drain the extra fat.
- Evenly distribute the crumbled bacon and sautéed onion at the base of the pastry shell. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, dry mustard, white pepper, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth.
- Gently pour the egg mixture over the layers of cheese in the pie crust.
- Bake the quiche in the oven for 10 minutes at 400°F. Afterward, reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for another 30 to 35 minutes, until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.
