Ham and Cheese Quiche

This Ham and Cheese Quiche is a savory dish that combines fluffy eggs, creamy milk, rich cheddar cheese, and savory ham in a perfectly baked crust. It’s a versatile dish, suitable for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. The addition of Parmesan cheese, onion, and green bell pepper elevates the flavors, making this quiche both hearty and flavorful. With its rich texture and balance of savory ingredients, this quiche will quickly become a family favorite. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s a perfect make-ahead dish for any occasion.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk (or half-and-half for creaminess)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream (optional for extra richness)
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) diced ham
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) diced onion
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) chopped green bell pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for flavor)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or a similar baking dish.
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream (if using), salt, black pepper, parsley, and paprika until well combined.

  2. Add the Fillings:
    Layer the diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, onion, and green bell pepper (if using) evenly in the prepared dish.
    Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dish.

  3. Bake the Quiche:
    Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the center and lightly golden on top.
    Check the doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

  4. Serve:
    Let the quiche cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair the quiche with a light salad for a balanced meal. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the quiche.
  • Serve with fresh fruit on the side for a refreshing contrast to the savory quiche.
  • Add a slice of toasted bread or buttery croissants for extra texture and flavor.

Tips

  • If you prefer a crispier crust, you can pre-bake the crust for 5 minutes before adding the fillings.
  • This quiche is easily customizable; you can add other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • If you want a lighter version, substitute the milk with a lower-fat option and use reduced-fat cheese.
  • To make this quiche ahead of time, you can bake it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Variations to Try

  • Veggie Quiche: Omit the ham and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version of this quiche.
  • Bacon and Cheese Quiche: Substitute the ham with crispy bacon for a smoky, savory twist.
  • Crustless Quiche: For a low-carb version, omit the crust and bake the quiche directly in the pie dish.
  • Spicy Quiche: Add a bit of hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.

Conclusion
This Ham and Cheese Quiche is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. It’s simple to prepare, full of flavor, and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re hosting brunch or making a quick dinner, this quiche is sure to impress. The combination of eggs, cheese, and ham is classic, and the added seasoning and vegetables give it the perfect balance of flavor. Serve it warm, and enjoy a comforting, hearty dish that everyone will love.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
    Yes! You can make the quiche the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just reheat it in the oven for 10-15 minutes before serving.

  • Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
    Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save you time and effort, and it will still turn out delicious.

  • Can I freeze the quiche?
    Yes, you can freeze the quiche before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the quiche, cover it tightly, and store it in the freezer. Bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

  • What can I use instead of sour cream?
    You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or omit it altogether for a slightly lighter quiche.

  • How do I know when the quiche is done?
    The quiche is done when it is set in the center, and the top is lightly golden. You can test doneness by inserting a toothpick or knife into the center—it should come out clean.