There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when you decide to whip up a classic quiche. The sound of the buttery crust bubbling in the oven paired with the tantalizing aroma of creamy cheese, ham, and fresh chives is nothing short of enticing. I found myself experimenting with this recipe one lazy Sunday morning, and what started as a quest for brunch soon turned into a beloved favorite.
This quiche is the best blend of indulgence and versatility, making it perfect for breakfast gatherings or an elegant brunch spread. What I love most is how easily you can customize it — swap out the ham for veggies or even try a crustless version! With straightforward preparation—think creamy filling coaxed into a flaky, golden crust—it promises to be a crowd-pleaser whether you serve it warm or at room temperature. Get ready to elevate your brunch game with this delightful dish!
Why is this the best quiche recipe?
Irresistible Taste: The perfect blend of creamy cheese and savory ham creates a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Versatility: Easily swap out ingredients to cater to your tastes—choose vegetarian fillings or even experiment with different cheeses!
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings, ensuring your friends and family leave satisfied and impressed.
Simple Steps: With straightforward instructions, you’ll have a stunning quiche on the table without stress.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep this dish in advance and simply reheat when it’s time to serve, making it ideal for busy mornings.
Elevate your brunch experience with this delightful classic, and if you’re looking for more inspirations, don’t forget to check out my meal prep ideas!
Best Quiche Ingredients
For the Crust
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure for a flaky base; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Batch basic pie dough – Essential for a wonderful texture; store-bought option saves time.
For the Filling
• Large eggs (4 total, 2 separated) – Binds the filling beautifully; for a vegan choice, aquafaba works well as a substitute.
• Heavy cream (3/4 cup) – Adds richness and creamy goodness; consider half-and-half or non-dairy cream for a lighter twist.
• Whole milk (3/4 cup) – Balances the cream’s richness; non-dairy milk can be a great dairy-free alternative.
• Kosher salt (3/4 tsp) – Enhances flavors and elevates every bite.
• Freshly ground black pepper (1/4 tsp) – Introduces a gentle warmth to the dish.
• Cooked ham steak, finely chopped (about 6 oz) – Infuses the dish with protein and savory flavor; swap for cooked bacon or omit for a vegetarian quiche.
• Shredded Gruyère (3 oz) – Offers a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the ham; Swiss cheese or cheddar can be substituted if needed.
• Thinly sliced chives (1/4 cup) – Adds freshness and beautiful color; green onions can be used as an alternative.
With these delightful ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting the best quiche that will impress everyone at your table!
How to Make the Best Quiche
Prepare the Dough: Roll out your chilled pie dough to about 1/4-inch thick. Gently transfer it to a pie pan and trim or crimp the edges as desired for a polished look.
Blind Bake: Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line the crust with parchment paper, add pie weights, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove weights, brush the crust with egg whites, and bake until slightly golden.
Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined and creamy.
Combine: Place the finely chopped ham and shredded Gruyère cheese into the bottom of the partially baked crust. Sprinkle the sliced chives over them, then gently pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
Bake: Place your quiche in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the filling is puffed and slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool and Serve: Allow the quiche to cool slightly after removing it from the oven. It’s best served at room temperature, where the flavors can truly shine.
Optional: Garnish with extra chives for a fresh touch before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Best Quiche Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore different ingredients and twist the flavors to make this quiche your own. Let your creativity flow in the kitchen!
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute ham with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty, meat-free option. The umami from the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the filling.
Spinach & Feta: Add fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. The saltiness of the feta and the freshness of the spinach create a vibrant flavor contrast.
Crustless Innovation: For a lighter version, skip the pie crust altogether. Pour the filling straight into a greased baking dish for a simple, gluten-free delight that still delivers on taste.
Cheese Swap: Use a mix of Swiss and cheddar cheese instead of Gruyère for a sharper flavor profile. Each cheese adds its character, allowing for a delightful taste experience.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the filling. The added aroma and flavor will elevate the quiche to new culinary heights.
Bacon Bliss: Replace the ham with crispy bacon bits for a smoky richness. This variant delivers a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy filling.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a zesty version. The heat complements the creamy texture, perfect for those who enjoy a little spice in their brunch.
Seasonal Veggie Medley: Incorporate seasonal veggies like asparagus or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. This adds a splash of color and enhances the dish’s freshness.
Experiment with these ideas, and don’t hesitate to make this best quiche your very own masterpiece!
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Ham and Gruyère Quiches are perfect for meal prep and can truly save you time during busy mornings! You can prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance, just make sure to keep it well-wrapped in the refrigerator to maintain its flakiness. Additionally, you can mix the egg filling (eggs, cream, milk, salt, and pepper) up to 3 days ahead. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the chopped ham and cheese in the crust, pour in the prepared egg mixture, and bake. This way, you’ll enjoy just as delicious results, with minimal effort when it’s time to enjoy your meal!
Expert Tips for the Best Quiche
Perfect Dough: Chill your pie dough until firm to ensure a flaky crust; a warm dough will not hold its shape.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid overflowing by carefully pouring the egg mixture. This ensures even baking without messy spills.
Season Generously: Taste the egg mixture before baking! Adjust salt and pepper to make the flavors pop in your best quiche.
Cooling Time: Let the quiche sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps stabilize the filling, making it easier to slice.
Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh chives elevate flavors; consider adding parsley or thyme for additional zest in your filling.
Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to customize! Seasonal vegetables or different types of cheese can transform the best quiche into your unique creation.
What to Serve with Classic Ham and Gruyère Quiche?
Enhance your brunch experience with delightful accompaniments that balance flavors and textures perfectly.
Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy quiche, adding crunch and brightness.
Fresh Fruit Platter: Seasonal fruits like berries and melon bring natural sweetness that complements the savory quiche and adds a vibrant pop to your table.
Crispy Hash Browns: Golden-brown, crispy potatoes make for a hearty side that harmonizes with the fluffy quiche. The texture variety is simply delightful!
Savory Scones: Buttery, cheesy scones can elevate your brunch spread. They offer a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the soft filling of the quiche.
Herbed Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of herbed yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy zing, making each bite a burst of flavor that complements the quiche.
Mimosas: This classic brunch cocktail of sparkling wine and orange juice adds a festive touch that pairs wonderfully with the quiche’s creamy richness.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea rounds off the meal perfectly, offering a comforting beverage option that enhances the overall brunch experience.
How to Store and Freeze Classic Quiche
Fridge: Store leftover quiche in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to prevent excess moisture.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place in an airtight container for up to 2 months. This allows for easy reheat options when cravings strike!
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through for the best quiche experience.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the quiche a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Best Quiche Recipe FAQs
How to choose the best ingredients for the quiche?
Absolutely! Selecting the right ingredients is key. For the best flavor, use fresh eggs, high-quality ham, and Gruyère cheese. When picking your ham, look for one with minimal additives or preservatives. For the cheese, freshly grated Gruyère will melt beautifully and enhance the taste compared to pre-shredded varieties.
How should I store leftover quiche?
To keep your best quiche fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the quiche to cool completely before sealing in the container to prevent condensation that could make the crust soggy.
Can I freeze quiche?
Definitely! To freeze, slice your quiche into individual portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my quiche crust is soggy?
If your crust turns out a bit soggy, it may be due to excess moisture from the filling. To prevent this, consider blind baking the crust longer – around 5 minutes more after removing the weights can help. Additionally, you can sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or cheese on the crust before adding the filling; this creates a barrier against moisture.
Is this quiche adaptable for different dietary needs?
Very! For a gluten-free version, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you want a dairy-free option, use non-dairy cream and milk, and for a vegan quiche, replace the eggs with aquafaba and ensure all cheese is plant-based. This way, everyone can enjoy the best quiche!
Can I add vegetables to my quiche?
Absolutely! Adding seasonal vegetables not only boosts nutritional value but also enhances the taste. I often love to include spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms. Sauté your vegetables first to draw out excess moisture, ensuring a perfect quiche every time!
Best Quiche Recipe Ever: Flaky, Creamy, and Irresistible!
Equipment
- Pie Pan
- - Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- - Oven
- refrigerator
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups All-purpose flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- 1 batch basic pie dough Store-bought option saves time.
For the Filling
- 4 large eggs (2 separated) For a vegan choice, aquafaba works well as a substitute.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream Consider half-and-half or non-dairy cream for a lighter twist.
- 3/4 cup whole milk Non-dairy milk can be a great dairy-free alternative.
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt Enhances flavors and elevates every bite.
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper Introduces a gentle warmth to the dish.
- 6 oz cooked ham steak, finely chopped Swap for cooked bacon or omit for a vegetarian quiche.
- 3 oz shredded Gruyère Swiss cheese or cheddar can be substituted if needed.
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced chives Green onions can be used as an alternative.
Instructions
How to Make the Best Quiche
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out your chilled pie dough to about 1/4-inch thick. Gently transfer it to a pie pan and trim or crimp the edges as desired for a polished look.
- Blind Bake: Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line the crust with parchment paper, add pie weights, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove weights, brush the crust with egg whites, and bake until slightly golden.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Combine: Place the finely chopped ham and shredded Gruyère cheese into the bottom of the partially baked crust. Sprinkle the sliced chives over them, then gently pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place your quiche in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the filling is puffed and slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the quiche to cool slightly after removing it from the oven. It's best served at room temperature, where the flavors can truly shine.