Ham and cheese quiche is a versatile and delicious dish. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner. The combination of savory ham, melty cheese, and rich custard in a flaky pie crust makes it a crowd-pleaser. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the best ham and cheese quiche from scratch. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe is simple to follow, with plenty of tips and variations to try.
Why Ham and Cheese Quiche is a Favorite
Quiche is a classic dish with origins in France, but it has become popular worldwide due to its versatility and ease of preparation. A ham and cheese quiche is one of the most beloved varieties, combining salty ham with creamy, cheesy goodness in a buttery crust. What makes quiche especially appealing is its flexibility—you can serve it warm, cold, or at room temperature, making it a great choice for any occasion.
Quiche also holds up well for leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge or freezer, and reheat it when needed. Whether you’re preparing for a casual weekend brunch or looking for a dish to impress guests, ham and cheese quiche will not disappoint.
Ingredients for the Best Ham and Cheese Quiche
Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s look at the essential ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 refrigerated pie crust: Store-bought is quick and easy, but if you have time, homemade crust offers extra flavor and flakiness.
- 4 large eggs: The base of the quiche filling. Eggs provide structure and richness.
- 1 cup half-and-half: This adds creaminess. You can also use whole milk or a mixture of milk and cream.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: For a slight tang that complements the cheese and ham.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the dish and add color.
- 8 ounces diced ham: You can use pre-cooked ham, leftover ham, or deli ham.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is preferred for its bold flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Swiss or Gruyère.
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped: Adds a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
These ingredients come together to create a savory, rich quiche. You can adjust them based on your taste or dietary preferences, such as using a different type of cheese or adding vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Ham and Cheese Quiche
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, this step is quick and simple. However, if you want to make your own pie crust from scratch, here’s a quick guide:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the dough and place it in a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges as desired.
- Chill the crust in the fridge for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the filling. Chilling helps prevent the crust from shrinking during baking.
- Blind-bake the crust: Place parchment paper over the crust and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10-12 minutes, remove the weights, and bake for another 5 minutes until the crust is lightly golden.
Blind baking is optional but highly recommended if you want a crispy, non-soggy bottom.
Step 2: Make the Quiche Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and parsley until fully combined. The mustard adds depth of flavor to the quiche without overpowering the other ingredients.
Step 3: Assemble the Quiche
- Layer the ingredients: Place the diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped shallot evenly in the bottom of the prepared pie crust.
- Pour the egg mixture over the ham, cheese, and shallots. Make sure the filling spreads evenly throughout the crust.
Tip: To avoid a mess, pour the egg mixture slowly. If you’re adding extra ingredients like spinach or mushrooms, layer them in with the ham and cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Quiche
Place the quiche on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly puffed. The quiche should be lightly golden on top and firm around the edges.
Allow the quiche to cool for at least 20-30 minutes before slicing. This gives the custard time to set fully, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.
Variations of Ham and Cheese Quiche
Quiche is a versatile dish that can be easily customized. Here are some delicious variations you can try:
1. Spinach and Cheese Quiche
For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with spinach. You can use fresh or frozen spinach. Sauté it lightly before adding to the quiche to remove excess moisture. Spinach pairs beautifully with cheeses like feta or Swiss.
2. Broccoli Ham and Cheese Quiche
Adding steamed or roasted broccoli to your quiche gives it a nutritional boost and adds a fresh flavor. Broccoli and cheddar are a classic combination, and the addition of ham makes it even more filling.
3. Crustless Ham and Cheese Quiche
If you’re looking for a low-carb option, skip the crust entirely. A crustless quiche is just as flavorful and cuts down on prep time. Simply grease the pie dish and pour the filling directly in. Baking time may be slightly reduced for crustless quiche.
4. Mini Ham and Cheese Quiches
For a fun twist or for entertaining, you can make mini quiches using a muffin tin. This is a great option for meal prepping or serving bite-sized portions at a party. Adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes for mini quiches.
For more creative quiche variations, check out Creative Quiche Fillings and experiment with new flavors and combinations.
Tips for the Perfect Quiche Every Time
1. Use a Good Quality Cheese
The cheese you use plays a huge role in the flavor of your quiche. Sharp cheddar is a great choice because it melts well and has a strong flavor. Gruyère, Swiss, or even mozzarella can also work depending on the flavor profile you’re aiming for.
2. Blind-Bake the Crust
Blind baking helps ensure your crust stays flaky and crisp, even with the wet filling of a quiche. It’s not mandatory, but it’s highly recommended if you want to avoid a soggy bottom.
3. Don’t Overfill the Crust
Make sure not to overfill the quiche with too many ingredients. The eggs need space to expand as they bake, so leave a little room between the filling and the top of the crust.
4. Achieve a Creamy Texture
For the creamiest quiche, stick to the classic ratio of one part eggs to two parts liquid (milk or cream). This ensures the quiche stays soft and smooth without becoming too firm.
Serving Suggestions for Ham and Cheese Quiche
Ham and cheese quiche is a rich dish, so it pairs well with lighter sides. Here are some ideas for serving:
- Green salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the quiche.
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or roasted peppers make for great accompaniments.
- Fresh fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or melon for a refreshing contrast.
You can serve quiche warm, cold, or at room temperature. It’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and it pairs well with coffee, tea, or even a light white wine.
FAQs About Ham and Cheese Quiche
1. Can I Make Ham and Cheese Quiche Ahead of Time?
Yes! Quiche is a great make-ahead dish. You can bake it the day before and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in a 315°F oven until warmed through. You can also enjoy quiche at room temperature, making it a convenient dish for gatherings.
2. Do I Have to Pre-Bake the Crust?
Pre-baking (or blind baking) the crust helps ensure a crispy bottom and prevents the crust from becoming soggy. While it’s not mandatory, especially with store-bought crusts, it’s highly recommended for a better texture.
3. Can I Freeze Quiche?
Yes, quiche freezes very well. You can freeze the entire quiche or individual slices. Wrap the quiche tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat the quiche in the oven, straight from frozen, at 350°F until warmed through.
4. What’s the Best Type of Ham for Quiche?
You can use any type of fully cooked ham for quiche. Pre-cooked diced ham, leftover ham, or thick-sliced deli ham all work well. If you want a smoky flavor, try using smoked ham.
5. How Long Does Quiche Last in the Fridge?
Ham and cheese quiche can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container. For the best texture, reheat it in the oven rather than the microwave.
For more expert tips on how to handle pie crust, visit How to Make a Flaky Homemade Crust to learn the best techniques.
Conclusion
Ham and cheese quiche is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that works for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many variations, quiche is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. It’s a dish that’s perfect for meal prep, entertaining, or a casual weekend brunch.
Now that you know how to make the best ham and cheese quiche, it’s time to get cooking! With the tips and variations provided, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.