Ham and Cheese Quiche

Introduction

This Ham and Cheese Quiche is a savory, comforting dish that combines the richness of eggs with the salty goodness of ham and the melty allure of cheese, all nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this dish is as versatile as it is satisfying.

I remember serving this at a holiday brunch, and it quickly became the centerpiece of the table. The creamy egg filling, studded with savory ham and pockets of gooey cheese, had everyone reaching for seconds. It’s the kind of dish that feels special yet is so easy to make, with just a few ingredients that come together beautifully in every bite.

What’s great about this quiche is how adaptable it is. Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor, or switch up the cheese for something sharp like cheddar or creamy like Swiss. It’s also an excellent make-ahead dish—just bake it, let it cool, and reheat slices as needed.

Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a holiday spread, or simply treating yourself to a cozy homemade meal, this ham and cheese quiche is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your table.

Perfect for:

• Brunch gatherings
• Holiday breakfasts or dinners
• Light dinners
• Picnic meals
• Ham and cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Ham and Cheese Quiche

Here’s why Ham and Cheese Quiche will become your new go-to recipe:

• Savory and Satisfying: The combination of tender eggs, savory ham, and melty cheese creates a filling and delicious dish.
• Buttery, Flaky Crust: The quiche’s crust is tender and flaky, providing the perfect base for all the rich fillings.
• Versatile: This recipe is easily customizable—switch up the cheese, add veggies, or use a store-bought crust for convenience.
• Great for Leftovers: Leftover quiche is perfect for a quick breakfast or light meal the next day.
• Easy to Make: This simple recipe comes together quickly, and while it bakes, you have time to enjoy the wonderful aromas in your kitchen.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 14g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Ham and Cheese Quiche:

• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, if preferred)
• 1 cup diced ham (cooked)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or a blend)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped herbs (such as parsley or chives, optional)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• ½ cup cooked spinach or mushrooms (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ham: Diced ham provides the perfect salty, savory flavor and makes this quiche hearty and filling.
• Cheese: Swiss and cheddar cheeses are classic choices, adding richness and depth to the dish. Feel free to mix and match for added flavor.
• Eggs and Cream: The eggs and cream create a custard-like filling that’s smooth, rich, and velvety.
• Pie Crust: The flaky, buttery crust holds everything together and adds the perfect texture contrast to the creamy filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Ham and Cheese Quiche:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, place it in a 9-inch pie dish and set it aside. If you’re using homemade dough, roll it out and fit it into the dish.
2. Prepare the Vegetables (Optional): If you’re using onions, spinach, or mushrooms, sauté them in a little butter or olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess liquid from cooked spinach or mushrooms before adding to the quiche filling.
3. Mix the Eggs and Cream: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until fully combined and smooth.
4. Add Ham and Cheese: Stir in the diced ham, shredded cheese, and any optional ingredients like cooked onions, spinach, or herbs. Mix until evenly distributed.

Assemble and Bake the Quiche:

5. Fill the Crust: Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake: Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. You can test the quiche by inserting a knife or toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, the quiche is done.
7. Cool: Let the quiche cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Quiche

Ham and Cheese Quiche is perfect for a variety of occasions:

• Brunch: Serve slices of quiche with fresh fruit, a salad, or a side of crispy bacon for a complete brunch spread.
• Dinner: Pair with a light green salad and some crusty bread for an easy weeknight dinner.
• Picnics or Potlucks: This quiche can be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics or potluck gatherings.
• Leftovers: Leftover quiche can be enjoyed for breakfast or lunch the next day. It reheats wonderfully in the microwave or oven.

Additional Tips for Ham and Cheese Quiche

Here are some tips to ensure your Ham and Cheese Quiche turns out perfect every time:

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the quiche as it bakes to avoid overcooking. The center should be set but still slightly wobbly when you remove it from the oven.
• Use Cold Ingredients: For a flaky crust, make sure your pie dough and filling ingredients (like the cream) are cold before assembling.
• Customize the Filling: You can easily change up the flavor by adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes, or using a different cheese, such as Gruyère or mozzarella.
• Pre-bake the Crust (Optional): If you want an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the pie crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This will help prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil work wonderfully in the filling, adding an aromatic touch. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for a little extra flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can make this quiche the night before, let it cool completely, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes before serving.

Recipe Variations for Ham and Cheese Quiche

Here are 10 variations you can try for Ham and Cheese Quiche:

• Spinach and Feta Ham Quiche: Add spinach and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist on the classic.
• Bacon and Cheddar Quiche: Substitute bacon for ham and use sharp cheddar for a smoky, flavorful quiche.
• Broccoli and Ham Quiche: Incorporate steamed broccoli for added texture and color.
• Mushroom and Swiss Ham Quiche: Add sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for an earthy, savory flavor.
• Zucchini and Ham Quiche: Grated zucchini adds moisture and texture to the filling.
• Tomato and Ham Quiche: Add fresh diced tomatoes to the filling for a burst of freshness and color.
• Leek and Ham Quiche: Leeks add a delicate, mild onion flavor that complements the ham and cheese perfectly.
• Sausage and Cheese Quiche: Swap out the ham for cooked sausage and your favorite cheese for a hearty version.
• Vegetarian Ham and Cheese Quiche: Use vegetarian ham or omit the ham entirely and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus.
• Gluten-Free Ham and Cheese Quiche: Use a gluten-free pie crust or a crustless version for a gluten-free option.

Freezing and Storage for Ham and Cheese Quiche

• Freezing: This quiche freezes well. After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes.
• Storage: Store leftover quiche in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.

Special Equipment for Ham and Cheese Quiche

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Ham and Cheese Quiche easier:

• Pie Dish or Tart Pan: A 9-inch pie dish or tart pan works well for quiche.
• Whisk: A good whisk is essential for smoothly combining the eggs and cream.
• Sauté Pan: A small sauté pan for cooking any vegetables before adding them to the quiche filling.
• Pie Weights (Optional): If pre-baking the crust, pie weights can help prevent the crust from shrinking or bubbling.
• Rolling Pin (If Making Homemade Crust): Roll out the dough evenly for a uniform crust.
• Cooling Rack: Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing to help it set properly.
• Storage Containers: Airtight containers for storing leftovers or frozen quiche.

Frequently Asked Questions for Ham and Cheese Quiche

1. Can I use a store-bought crust?
   Yes, using a pre-made pie crust is a quick and easy option. Just make sure to use a 9-inch crust.
2. Can I make this quiche crustless?
   Yes, simply omit the crust and pour the filling directly into a greased pie dish or tart pan for a low-carb option.
3. Can I use different cheeses?
   Absolutely! You can swap out the Swiss or cheddar for cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or goat cheese.
4. Can I freeze the quiche?
   Yes, you can freeze baked and cooled quiche. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
5. Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the quiche the night before and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat before serving.

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Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Quiche is a classic dish that combines rich, creamy flavors with a flaky, buttery crust. Filled with savory ham, gooey melted cheese, and a perfectly seasoned egg custard, this quiche is a versatile favorite that works for any meal. Whether you’re hosting brunch, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or planning meals ahead, this dish delivers every time.

It’s easy to customize—add your favorite veggies, swap cheeses, or use leftover ham for a no-waste option. Serve it warm, cold, or at room temperature, and pair it with a fresh salad or fruit for a complete meal.

I’d love to see how your Ham and Cheese Quiche turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your creations. Happy baking!