Have you ever experienced the comforting aroma of a freshly baked ham and cheese quiche wafting through your kitchen? This dish is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table. Imagine flaky pastry filled with creamy eggs, savory ham, and melted cheese—each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that warms the heart.
Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this easy-to-make ham and cheese quiche is the perfect choice. With its rich textures and satisfying taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish!
Why You’ll Love This ham and cheese quiche
Quick and Easy Preparation: Making this ham and cheese quiche doesn’t require culinary expertise or hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip it up in no time. Perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings!
Versatile Ingredients: You can customize this recipe according to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers or using different cheeses, feel free to get creative! This makes it suitable for various dietary needs.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From brunch parties to weeknight dinners, this dish is incredibly versatile. It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an ideal option for potlucks or picnics.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this ham and cheese quiche ahead of time. Bake it the night before your event or meal, refrigerate it overnight, then reheat before serving. This convenience allows you more time to enjoy with your guests.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pie Crust: A store-bought or homemade pie crust serves as the base for your quiche. Choose one that is flaky and holds up well during baking.
- Eggs: Use large eggs for optimal flavor and texture in the custard filling.
- Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess to your filling; however, you can use half-and-half for an even richer taste.
- Diced Ham: Choose cooked ham for convenience; it brings a savory depth of flavor to each bite.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic here; however, feel free to mix in Swiss or Gruyère for added richness.
- Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance all the flavors; adjust them according to your preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make ham and cheese quiche
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking throughout your quiche.
Prepare Pie Crust: Place your pie crust into a lightly greased pie dish. If using store-bought dough, follow package instructions regarding thawing if frozen.
Mix Filling Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until blended. Stir in diced ham, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
Pour Filling into Crust: Carefully pour the egg mixture into the prepared pie crust. Make sure it’s evenly distributed so every slice has an equal amount of filling.
Bake the Quiche: Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for about 35–40 minutes or until set in the middle and golden brown on top.
Cool Before Serving: Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature as desired.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh eggs and quality deli meats can significantly improve your quiche’s flavor profile. Fresh ingredients elevate every bite!
Bake Until Set: To ensure that your filling sets properly without being too runny, it’s important not to skip checking doneness by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean when fully cooked.
Add Flavor Variations: Consider adding herbs like thyme or chives into your egg mixture for additional flavor dimensions that complement both ham and cheese beautifully.
Store Properly After Cooking: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for quick enjoyment later!
Mistakes to avoid
Using too much liquid
Adding excess milk or cream can make your ham and cheese quiche soggy. Stick to the recommended measurements for a perfect texture. Aim for a balance between creaminess and firmness, ensuring your quiche holds together beautifully once baked.
Not pre-baking the crust
Skipping the pre-baking step can lead to a soggy bottom crust. Always par-bake your pie crust for about 10 minutes at 375°F before adding the filling. This ensures a crispy texture that complements the rich filling of ham and cheese quiche.
Overcooking the filling
Baking your quiche for too long can result in a rubbery texture. Monitor cooking closely; typically, it should bake for 30-35 minutes at 375°F until set but still tender in the middle. A gentle touch will yield a delightful consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This ham and cheese quiche is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad. The crisp greens and tangy dressing complement the rich flavors of the quiche, creating a balanced meal that’s perfect for lunch or brunch. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette to enhance the freshness.
Another excellent serving suggestion is to enjoy it with a side of roasted vegetables. Caramelized asparagus or seasoned bell peppers add texture and nutritional value while contrasting nicely with the creamy filling of the quiche. Roasting them at 400°F for about 20 minutes will bring out their natural sweetness.
For a heartier option, serve your ham and cheese quiche alongside some crusty bread or warm baguette slices. This combination allows you to soak up any leftover filling and adds a delightful crunch to each bite. Toasting the bread lightly enhances its flavor and adds an inviting aroma.
Lastly, pairing this dish with a glass of chilled white wine can elevate your dining experience. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the savory notes in the quiche beautifully, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or special occasions.
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for ham and cheese quiche?
To make a delicious ham and cheese quiche, you will need eggs, milk, shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Swiss), diced ham, salt, pepper, and a pie crust. You can also add vegetables like spinach or onions for extra flavor. Make sure to have these key ingredients on hand to create this savory dish.
Can I make ham and cheese quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare ham and cheese quiche ahead of time! Assemble the quiche without baking it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake it in advance, let it cool completely, then store it in the fridge for later reheating.
How do I store leftover ham and cheese quiche?
Store leftover ham and cheese quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best results when reheating in the oven, cover with foil at 350°F until heated properly.
Can I freeze ham and cheese quiche?
Yes, freezing ham and cheese quiche is possible! Wrap cooled portions tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor retention.
Easy Ham and Cheese Quiche
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Delight in the comforting flavors of this easy ham and cheese quiche, featuring a flaky crust filled with creamy eggs, savory diced ham, and melted cheese. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this versatile dish is simple to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy a slice warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Fit the pie crust into a greased pie dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and milk; stir in ham, cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture into the prepared crust.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Allow cooling for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (95g)
- Calories: 234
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 564mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. - Experiment with different cheeses such as Swiss or Gruyère for variety. - This quiche can be made ahead of time; refrigerate overnight before baking.
