Bacon and Cheddar Quiche – The Ultimate Savory Breakfast Delight
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a homemade quiche fresh out of the oven. This Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is the perfect blend of creamy eggs, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch, a cozy family breakfast, or a make-ahead meal for busy mornings, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for everyday cooking. With its golden-brown top, melt-in-your-mouth filling, and that rich, savory aroma wafting through your kitchen, this dish is guaranteed to impress. In this post, we’ll guide you step-by-step through making the perfect Bacon and Cheddar Quiche, share expert tips, answer your most common questions, and even show you how to customize it to your taste. If you’re searching for a high-protein breakfast, easy quiche recipe, or savory brunch ideas, you’ve landed in the right place.
Ingredients
For the Crust
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
3–4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup milk
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Pre-Bake the Crust
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges, then prick the bottom with a fork. Line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 12–15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Onion
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. In the same skillet, sauté the onions in the bacon drippings until soft and translucent.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Quiche
Layer the cooked bacon, sautéed onions, and shredded cheddar cheese evenly in the pre-baked crust. Pour the egg mixture over the filling.
Step 6: Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Tips for the Perfect Quiche
Use cold butter for a flaky crust.
Pre-bake your crust to prevent sogginess.
Let the quiche rest before slicing to help it set properly.
For extra flavor, try using smoked cheddar or gruyère.
You can make the crust ahead and freeze it for up to 1 month.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or at room temperature with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. This quiche also pairs beautifully with fruit salad and mimosas for brunch. For a light dinner, add a side of tomato soup or roasted potatoes.
Variations
Spinach and Feta Quiche: Replace bacon and cheddar with spinach and feta for a Mediterranean twist.
Ham and Swiss Quiche: Use diced ham and Swiss cheese for a classic combination.
Vegetarian Quiche: Omit the bacon and add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Crustless Version: Skip the crust and pour the filling into a greased pie dish for a low-carb option.
FAQs About Bacon and Cheddar Quiche
Can I make quiche ahead of time? Yes, quiche can be made a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven before serving.
Can I freeze quiche? Absolutely! Bake and cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust? Blind baking (pre-baking) the crust and letting it cool before adding the filling helps prevent sogginess.
Can I use milk instead of cream? You can use all milk, but the texture will be lighter and less rich. For the best flavor, use a mix of milk and cream.
What’s the best cheese for quiche? Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor, but you can also use Swiss, gruyère, or Monterey Jack.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 420
Protein: 15g
Fat: 33g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 580mg
Conclusion
This Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is a foolproof, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both comforting and versatile. Packed with protein, creamy eggs, and that unbeatable smoky cheese flavor, it’s the ultimate savory breakfast or brunch recipe for any occasion. Whether you serve it for Sunday brunch, a family gathering, or meal prep for the week, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your home kitchen. Try it once and it’s bound to become a household favorite. For more easy brunch ideas, egg-based breakfast recipes, and make-ahead meal inspiration, stay tuned for more delicious recipes like this one!