There’s a certain comfort that comes from the first bite of a warm, homemade Ham and Cheese Quiche. As the rich aroma fills the kitchen, it takes me back to cozy brunches with family, where laughter and the clinking of forks create a symphony of joy. This timeless dish combines flaky crusts with a creamy custard that holds savory bits of ham and melted cheese, making it an instant classic for any meal of the day.
Whether you’ve had a busy morning or are looking for a satisfying dinner option, this quiche is not only delicious but incredibly easy to whip up. With a store-bought pie crust and a handful of simple ingredients, you can have a crowd-pleaser on the table in no time. Imagine a slice served warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge after a busy day—this dish never fails to impress! Embrace the versatility of the Ham and Cheese Quiche and let’s dive into the recipe that promises to make your taste buds dance and your kitchen glow with happiness.
Why Choose Ham and Cheese Quiche?
Homemade Comfort: This quiche encapsulates the warmth of home cooking, perfect for family gatherings or casual brunches.
Versatile Satisfaction: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or swap meats to create a variety your family will love.
Easy Prep: With a pre-made crust, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and savory ham delivers a rich taste that everyone can enjoy.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it ahead and enjoy chilled or reheated—ideal for storing in the fridge for quick lunches!
Ham and Cheese Quiche Ingredients
For the Crust
• Pre-Made Pie Crust – Saves time and ensures a flaky base without the fuss of homemade dough.
For the Filling
• Diced Cooked Ham – The star ingredient that adds savory flavor; can easily swap with turkey or chicken for variety.
• Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Delivers a rich, creamy texture; mozzarella or Gruyère are great alternatives if you want a milder flavor.
• Dried Minced Onion – Enhances the quiche’s savory depth; use fresh onions if preferred but crumble them fine to avoid large bites.
• Large Eggs – Essential for forming the custard base that binds all flavors together.
• Half-and-Half Cream – Creates a deliciously creamy filling; you can use milk, but the quiche won’t be as rich.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; adjust as needed for dietary restrictions.
• Black Pepper – Adds seasoning; consider smoked paprika for an extra kick or different flavor profile.
Baking Essentials
• Aluminum Foil – Necessary for the blind baking process to prevent the crust from puffing.
• Pie Weights or Dried Beans – Keep the crust flat during baking to ensure a perfectly crisp base.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Quiche
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This warms up the space for the perfect baking environment, ensuring your quiche cooks evenly.
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Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out your pre-made pie crust into two 9-inch pie plates. Flute the edges for a charming finish that adds a lovely touch to your quiche.
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Blind Bake Crusts: Line each crust with aluminum foil and fill with pie weights (or dried beans). Bake them for 10-12 minutes until they begin to turn golden brown. Remove the weights and foil, then bake for another 3-5 minutes to crisp the bases.
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Prepare Filling: Evenly divide the diced ham, shredded cheese, and minced onion between the two crusts. This layering enhances the flavor in every bite!
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Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, half-and-half, salt, and pepper until well-combined and smooth. Pour this delightful mixture into the prepared crusts, covering the fillings completely.
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Bake Quiche: Cover the edges with foil to prevent over-browning and bake for 35-40 minutes. The quiche is ready when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, and the filling is set but slightly wobbly in the middle. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ham and Cheese Quiche are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify mealtime! You can prepare the filling by mixing the diced ham, cheese, and onions up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can blind bake the pie crusts ahead of time and keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, whisk together the eggs and cream, combine with the pre-prepped filling, pour into the crusts, and bake as per the recipe instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade quiche with minimal effort during the busy week!
Expert Tips for Ham and Cheese Quiche
• Blind Baking Necessity: Prevent a soggy crust by blind baking your pie crust. This crucial step ensures a crisp base before adding the savory filling.
• Evenly Layer Fillings: Layer diced ham, cheese, and onions evenly in the crust to ensure every slice of your ham and cheese quiche is packed with flavor.
• Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the quiche as it bakes; it should be puffed and slightly wobbly in the center. Over-baking can lead to a dry texture.
• Cooling Time: Let the quiche sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps set the filling, making slicing a breeze and enhancing overall flavor.
• Personalize To Taste: Feel free to experiment! Consider adding sautéed vegetables or different cheeses to create a ham and cheese quiche that suits your palate perfectly.
Ham and Cheese Quiche Variations
Explore delightful twists on the classic quiche that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Veggie-Loaded: Add sautéed spinach or bell peppers for a burst of color and nutrients, balancing savory and fresh flavors beautifully.
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the egg mixture for an aromatic flair that elevates each bite.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked ham or bacon for a hint of smokiness; it adds an irresistible depth that transforms the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to kick up the heat, perfect for those who crave a little adventure.
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Cheesy Surprise: Try mixing in cream cheese or goat cheese alongside your cheddar for an extra creamy texture and a tangy twist.
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Crustless Version: For a low-carb option, skip the crust entirely! Simply grease a pie dish and pour the filling directly into it for a hearty frittata-style quiche.
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Sweet Potato Crust: Swap the traditional pie crust with a thin layer of roasted sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet base that pairs wonderfully with the savory filling.
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Mediterranean Flair: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to create a Mediterranean-inspired quiche that’s full of bright flavors and textures.
How to Store and Freeze Ham and Cheese Quiche
Fridge: Store leftover ham and cheese quiche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its delicious flavor and texture.
Freezer: To freeze, prepare the quiche as directed but do not bake. Wrap tightly and place in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adjusting the time to ensure it cooks through.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, preserving that lovely creamy texture.
Serving Cold: This quiche is delightful served cold! Enjoy it straight from the fridge for a quick meal or snack option that still packs a flavorful punch.
What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Quiche?
Imagine a delightful brunch spread, where the comforting warmth of your freshly baked quiche harmonizes with vibrant sides that elevate the experience.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy quiche, with fresh greens and a zesty vinaigrette that awaken the palate.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus brings earthy flavors that complement the rich and savory notes of the quiche.
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Crispy Bacon Strips: Add a savory crunch to each bite, providing an extra layer of indulgence for your breakfast or brunch table.
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Fruit Platter: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries and melon adds a fresh sweetness that balances the savory flavors perfectly.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Their crunchy texture beautifully complements each slice of quiche while offering a delightful garlic flavor that pairs well with the filling.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink is light and effervescent, enhancing the overall dining experience with a citrusy burst against the hearty flavors.
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Mini Quiche Variations: Serve an assortment of other quiches to create a fun tasting menu, allowing guests to explore different flavors alongside the ham and cheese classic.
Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe FAQs
What kind of pie crust should I use?
Absolutely! A pre-made pie crust saves you time and ensures a flaky base without the fuss of making dough from scratch. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making your own crust with flour, butter, and a bit of water for a homemade touch!
How long can I store leftover quiche?
You can refrigerate leftover ham and cheese quiche in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before covering it, as this will help maintain its delicious flavor and texture.
Can I freeze ham and cheese quiche?
Certainly! To freeze, prepare the quiche as directed but do not bake it. Instead, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until heated through and the edges are golden.
What ingredients can I substitute or add?
The beauty of quiche is its versatility! Besides ham, you can substitute cooked turkey or chicken. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also swap sharp cheddar for mozzarella or Gruyère if you prefer a milder flavor.
What if my quiche doesn’t set in the middle?
Very good question! If your quiche isn’t setting in the middle after baking, it likely needs more time in the oven. Make sure to cover the edges with foil to prevent over-browning while the center cooks. Also, the quiche is done when it appears slightly puffed and wobbles just a bit in the middle; it continues to set as it cools.
Can my pets eat quiche?
While a small taste of the filling ingredients may be safe for some pets, it’s best to avoid giving them quiche. Ingredients like onions can be harmful to dogs and cats, and the richness of cream and cheese may upset their stomachs, so stick to pet-friendly snacks!
Savory Ham and Cheese Quiche for Effortless Family Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out your pre-made pie crust into two 9-inch pie plates. Flute the edges.
- Line each crust with aluminum foil and fill with pie weights. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Remove weights and foil, then bake for another 3-5 minutes to crisp the bases.
- Evenly divide diced ham, shredded cheese, and minced onion between the two crusts.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, half-and-half, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour mixture into the prepared crusts.
- Cover edges with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes until set. Cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.