This Crustless Bacon and Cheese Quiche is a savory, satisfying, and low-carb dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Packed with the rich flavors of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmesan, it delivers all the comforting qualities of a traditional quiche—without the fuss of a pastry crust. The creamy, custard-like filling sets beautifully and can be made in advance, making this dish ideal for busy mornings, meal prepping, or entertaining. Whether you’re cutting back on carbs or just want something simple and delicious, this crustless quiche ticks all the boxes.
Cooking Time
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Preparation time: 15 minutes
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Cooking time: 35 minutes
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Cooling time: 10 minutes
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Total time: 60 minutes
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Servings: 6
Ingredients
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6 large eggs
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240 ml (1 cup) whole milk
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120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream
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120 g (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese
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50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
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6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
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½ small onion (about 30 g), finely chopped
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½ tsp garlic powder
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
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Butter or oil for greasing a 23 cm (9-inch) tart pan
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 23 cm (9-inch) tart or pie pan with butter or non-stick spray. -
Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble into small pieces. -
Mix the Egg Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream until smooth. -
Add the Fillings
Stir in the shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, garlic powder, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper. -
Assemble and Bake
Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. -
Cool and Serve
Let the quiche cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped chives, if desired, and serve warm.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: ~300 kcal
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Protein: 17 g
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Fat: 24 g
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Carbohydrates: 3 g
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Fiber: 0.2 g
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Sugars: 2 g
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Cholesterol: 210 mg
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Sodium: 470 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The classic quiche hails from France, specifically the Lorraine region, where it was originally made with cream, eggs, and bacon. The crustless version is a more modern adaptation that aligns with today’s dietary preferences, particularly low-carb, keto, and gluten-free diets. Without the crust, this quiche retains all the flavor and texture of the original, with fewer calories and less prep time. It has become a global favorite for its convenience and versatility, enjoyed everywhere from brunch cafés to home kitchens.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Low-Carb Friendly – Ideal for keto or gluten-free eaters.
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Quick to Prepare – Just whisk, pour, and bake!
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Perfect for Meal Prep – Keeps well in the fridge for several days.
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Family-Approved – Classic flavors loved by both kids and adults.
Health Benefits
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Protein-Rich – Eggs and bacon provide sustained energy and support muscle health.
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Calcium Boost – Cheddar and Parmesan contribute to bone health.
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Low in Carbs – Helps with blood sugar regulation and weight management.
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No Refined Carbs – Easier on digestion and reduces bloating.
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Customizable for Nutrition – Add spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms for more vitamins.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a side of mixed greens with vinaigrette for a light brunch.
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Pair with roasted vegetables or grilled asparagus.
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Add a fruit salad on the side for balance.
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Slice into squares and serve as finger food at parties.
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Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a sparkling white wine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Using only milk or cream – The best texture comes from combining both.
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Overcooking – The quiche should be just set in the middle; overbaking makes it dry.
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Not greasing the pan – This will cause the quiche to stick.
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Skipping the resting time – Letting it rest helps the custard firm up for cleaner slices.
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Using raw onions – They should be finely chopped, or even lightly sautéed if a milder flavor is preferred.
Pairing Recommendations
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Beverages: Try it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a mimosa.
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Breads: Serve with a slice of crusty sourdough or keto almond bread.
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Soups: Pair with creamy tomato or roasted red pepper soup.
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Condiments: A dollop of crème fraîche or a spoonful of spicy tomato chutney works beautifully.
Cooking Tips
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Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or peppers for color and nutrients.
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Pre-cook watery vegetables like zucchini or tomatoes to avoid soggy quiche.
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For extra flavor, sprinkle smoked paprika or nutmeg into the egg mix.
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Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for even cooking.
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Make it mini – Pour into muffin tins for individual crustless quiches.
Similar Recipes to Try
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Crustless Spinach and Feta Quiche – A vegetarian take packed with iron.
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Broccoli Cheddar Egg Bake – Great for using up leftover veggies.
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Quiche Lorraine with Crust – For when you want the traditional version.
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Sausage and Pepper Frittata – A hearty, meaty variation.
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Zucchini and Goat Cheese Egg Muffins – Perfect for on-the-go breakfasts.
Variations to Try
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Add cooked mushrooms or leeks for more earthy flavor.
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Use smoked bacon or pancetta for extra depth.
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Swap cheddar for Gruyère or Swiss cheese for a more French-inspired twist.
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Include cooked spinach or kale for a nutrition boost.
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Try it dairy-free – Use coconut milk and vegan cheese alternatives.
Ingredient Spotlight: Eggs
Eggs are the base of any quiche and play a crucial role in creating that custardy texture. They are rich in high-quality protein, vitamin D, choline, and B vitamins. Eggs support brain function, eye health, and satiety. In this recipe, they bind the cheese, cream, and fillings together to form a rich and cohesive dish that’s both satisfying and nutrient-dense.
Conclusion
This Crustless Bacon and Cheese Quiche is everything you want in a savory dish: easy, flavorful, hearty, and perfect for any time of day. It combines the classic flavors of bacon and cheese in a rich, creamy egg base without the hassle of making pastry dough. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for the week, hosting brunch, or just want a fuss-free dinner, this quiche is a reliable, family-friendly favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your tastes and dietary needs. One bite and you’ll be hooked on this crustless wonder!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake it the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in slices for up to 3 months.
3. Can I freeze this quiche?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
4. What’s the best way to reheat it?
For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 160°C (325°F) for 10–15 minutes. You can also microwave it for 1–2 minutes.
5. Can I use half-and-half instead of cream and milk?
Yes, if you’re in the U.S., half-and-half is a perfect one-ingredient substitute.
6. Is this keto-friendly?
Yes. With high fat, moderate protein, and very low carbs, it fits well into ketogenic diets.
7. Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Just be sure to pre-cook and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the quiche.
8. What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
You can use Swiss, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or any good melting cheese.
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9. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based milk and cream, and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Use a larger baking dish (like a 9×13 inch pan), and extend the baking time by about 10–15 minutes. Check doneness in the center.