Savor a culinary symphony as you tuck into our delicious Ham and Swiss Quiche, which deftly blends the subtle, nutty undertones of Swiss cheese with the rich flavors of savory ham. This delicious dish, which combines a buttery, flaky crust with an opulent filling that is both elegant and cozy, is a monument to the skill of quiches. It’s the perfect centerpiece for any brunch or special occasion, revealing a perfect symphony of flavors and textures with every bite.
The key ingredient in this delicious quiche is premium-quality ham, which adds a deep, smoky flavor that melds well with the unique creaminess of Swiss cheese. These savory components are embraced by the custard-like filling, which is enhanced with eggs and cream, giving it a velvety smooth texture that melts in your tongue. With each forkful, the perfectly baked golden crust adds a pleasing crunch and a refreshing contrast. When combined, these ingredients turn a basic dish into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will make your taste senses sing.
Our Ham and Swiss Quiche is guaranteed to enhance your dining experience, whether you’re serving breakfast to guests or looking for a hearty dinner to enjoy on a cold night. This ham and swiss quiche invites you to appreciate the art of dining in addition to satisfying your palette with its exquisite combination of flavors and textures. A culinary adventure that honors the timeless appeal of traditional ingredients skillfully paired to produce a dish that is both elegant and delicious awaits you.
Understanding Quiche!
Quiche is a savory pie originating from France, featuring a pastry crust filled with a mixture of eggs and cream. The filling often includes a variety of ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, meats, and herbs. The dish is known for its versatility, allowing for customization based on personal preferences. Quiches are baked until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown, and they are commonly served warm or at room temperature. Popular for brunches and light meals, quiches offer a delightful combination of a buttery crust and a creamy, flavorful interior.
Overview: How to make Ham and Swiss Quiche?
Preheat the oven to 375�F (190�C) before making the wonderful Ham and Swiss Quiche. Roll out a handmade or store-bought pie crust to fit a pie dish, making sure to uniformly cover the edges and bottom.
Beat one cup heavy cream and four big eggs together in a mixing dish until thoroughly blended. Add salt and pepper to taste and season the mixture. First, arrange one cup of chopped ham and one cup of shredded Swiss cheese on the bottom of the pie shell. Cover the ham and cheese with the egg and cream mixture.
The quiche should be baked for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the middle is set. Before slicing, let it cool for a few minutes.
Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this Ham and Swiss Quiche is as good as the Egg Bites, striking a perfect combination of flavorful ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and richness from the custard-like filling. Put your own spin on it by adding extra veggies or your preferred herbs.
Easy Ham and Swiss Quiche Recipe
Equipment
- Pie Dish
- Rolling Pin
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Oven and Oven Mitts
- Baking sheet
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust store-bought or homemade
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ham diced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese shredded
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375�F (190�C).
- Roll out the pie crust and place it in a pie dish, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides evenly. If using a store-bought crust, follow the package instructions for pre-baking, if required.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle the diced ham evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Follow with an even layer of shredded Swiss cheese.
- Pour the egg and cream mixture over the ham and cheese, ensuring it spreads evenly.
- Place the pie dish on a baking sheet (optional for easier handling) and bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the center is set, and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Preheat Precision: Ensure accurate preheating to 375�F (190�C) for consistent baking.
- Season Thoughtfully: Season the egg mixture well with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Quality Balance: Use high-quality ham and Swiss cheese in balanced proportions for optimal taste.
Nutrition
NUTRITIONAL FACTS (PER SERVING)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~ 400-450 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~ 30-35g |
| Saturated Fat | ~ 15-20g |
| Cholesterol | ~ 200-250mg |
| Sodium | ~ 600-700mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | ~ 15-20g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~ 1-2g |
| Sugars | ~ 1-2g |
| Protein | ~ 15-20g |
Secret to Perfect Quiche!
Blind Bake the Crust:
- To prevent a soggy bottom crust, consider blind baking (pre-baking) the crust before adding the filling. This involves partially baking the crust without the filling. It helps set the crust and ensures it stays crisp.
Optimal Filling Ratio:
- Maintain a balanced ratio of eggs, cream, and other ingredients in the filling. Too much filling can result in a quiche that doesn’t set properly, while too little may yield a dry texture.
Precook Ingredients:
- Precook any raw ingredients like vegetables or meats before adding them to the quiche. This ensures that they release excess moisture during the pre-cooking process rather than in the quiche, preventing a watery consistency.
Even Distribution:
- Distribute ingredients evenly across the crust to ensure each slice has a balanced combination of flavors. This helps achieve a consistent taste and texture throughout the quiche.
Temperature Monitoring:
- Keep a close eye on the oven temperature throughout the baking process. Slight variations can affect the quiche’s texture. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature control.
Resting Time:
- Allow the quiche to rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This helps the custard set and makes for cleaner slices.
Creative Seasoning:
- Experiment with herbs, spices, or other seasonings to enhance the flavor profile. Consider complementary herbs like thyme, chives, or a pinch of nutmeg for an added dimension.
Fresh, Quality Ingredients:
- Use fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to eggs, cream, ham, and cheese. Quality ingredients contribute significantly to the overall taste and texture of the quiche.
Room Temperature Eggs:
- Use room temperature eggs for the filling. This promotes better incorporation with other ingredients, resulting in a smoother and more even texture.
Customization:
- Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients. Quiches are versatile, so don’t hesitate to add personal touches like different cheeses, vegetables, or meats to suit your taste preferences.
Versatile Variations!
Quiches are wonderfully versatile, allowing for a variety of variations and substitutions to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian Quiche:
- Omit the ham and add a variety of vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and tomatoes for a flavorful vegetarian option.
- Cheese Options:
- Experiment with different cheeses like Gruy�re, cheddar, feta, or goat cheese to create unique flavor profiles.
- Herb Infusion:
- Enhance the quiche with fresh herbs such as thyme, chives, basil, or parsley for added freshness and aroma.
- Caramelized Onions:
- Add sweetness and depth of flavor by caramelizing onions before incorporating them into the quiche.
- Bacon Twist:
- Substitute or combine ham with crispy bacon for a smokier flavor.
- Crust Alternatives:
- Explore crust alternatives such as a hash brown crust or a cauliflower crust for a low-carb option.
- Dairy-Free:
- Use dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or a plant-based creamer for a lactose-free or vegan quiche.
- Gluten-Free:
- Opt for a gluten-free pie crust or skip the crust altogether for a gluten-free quiche.
- Seafood Quiche:
- Incorporate seafood like smoked salmon, shrimp, or crab for an elegant and flavorful twist.
- Egg Substitute:
- Use tofu or chickpea flour as an egg substitute for a vegan quiche.
- Spice it Up:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas or create your own variations based on personal preferences and dietary needs. Quiches are forgiving, making them an excellent canvas for culinary creativity.
Best Servings to go with Ham and Swiss Quiche!
Storing The Leftovers!
To properly store leftovers of your Ham and Swiss Quiche, follow these guidelines:
- Cooling:
- Allow the quiche to cool at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before refrigerating. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the crust soggy.
- Refrigeration:
- Store the leftover quiche in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator within 2 hours of baking.
- Refrigeration Time:
- Quiche leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. After this period, the quality may begin to decline.
- Freezing (Optional):
- If you want to store the quiche for a longer period, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Properly frozen quiche can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating:
- To reheat, preheat your oven to around 325�F (163�C). Place the quiche in the oven until it is heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in a microwave for a quicker option.
- Avoid Freezing Unbaked Quiche:
- It’s generally not recommended to freeze an unbaked ham and swiss quiche, as the quality of the custard filling may be affected. It’s better to bake the quiche first and then freeze if needed.
REMEMBER: Use your judgment when assessing the quality of leftovers. If there are any signs of spoilage or an off odor, it’s advisable to discard the quiche. Proper storage and reheating ensure that your leftover Ham and Swiss Quiche remains safe and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make the quiche ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the quiche a day in advance, refrigerate it, and then reheat before serving.
Q2: What other cheeses can I use in the quiche?
A: You can experiment with cheeses like cheddar, Gruyere, feta, or goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
Q3: Is it possible to make a vegan quiche?
A: Yes, you can use tofu or chickpea flour as an egg substitute and plant-based creamer to create a vegan version.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to the quiche filling?
A: Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and tomatoes are popular choices for added flavor and texture.
Q5: Can I use pre-shredded cheese in the quiche?
A: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese often melts better and has a smoother texture. Use your preference.
