Classic Quiche Lorraine

There’s something just warm and inviting about a Classic Quiche Lorraine, isn’t there? It’s one of those dishes that feels like a cozy hug, effortlessly blending savory flavors with that heavenly creamy texture. I remember the first time I made it; the smell of sizzling bacon wafting through the kitchen was enough to make anyone drool! It’s a Sunday brunch staple in my home, and trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll want to whip it out for every special occasion—or even just because.

What makes this recipe special

Why choose this quiche over all others? Well, it’s an explosion of flavor with every bite that genuinely feels elegant yet comforting. The rich Gruyère cheese melts like a dream, mingling beautifully with crispy bacon and a decadent cream mixture. The nutmeg (if you choose to use it) adds a subtle warmth that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it hot, warm, or even cold. Think about that heavenly leftover slice for breakfast the next day!

Gather these ingredients

Before you dive headfirst into the cooking process, let’s talk about what you’re going to need. Each ingredient plays a vital role, and I’ll share a little insight to elevate your experience:

• Pie Crust: A good, flaky pie crust is your foundation. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own from scratch, but a quality store-bought option works wonders too. Just keep it thawed if it’s frozen!

• Bacon: Six slices of good-quality bacon will add that smoky, savory flavor that makes this quiche unforgettable. Feel free to swap it for turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist.

• Gruyère Cheese: This nutty, semi-hard cheese is non-negotiable for that creamy mouthfeel and deep flavor. Don’t have Gruyère? Get creative with Emmental or even aged cheddar—just keep the cheese vibes going strong!

• Large Eggs: You’ll need three of these golden wonders. They’re the binding magic that holds all the delicious ingredients together.

• Heavy Cream: A full cup of this adds the luscious richness that we’re after. Half-and-half can be a lighter alternative, but where’s the fun in that?

• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings, but oh-so-important! Freshly cracked black pepper elevates the flavor in ways you wouldn’t believe.

• Nutmeg (Optional): This shouldn’t be an afterthought. A pinch can transform the flavor profile, lending a cozy warmth. Trust me, it’s magic!

How this recipe comes together

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create your masterpiece:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature to give your quiche that golden-brown finish.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s beautifully crispy. Don’t rush this; the rendered fat will add magic to the dish! Once done, remove and drain on paper towels. Let it cool a bit and then crumble it.

3. Now in a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and, if you’re feeling fancy, a few dashes of nutmeg. The mixture should look luscious and creamy.

4. Place your pie crust in a pie dish—don’t be afraid to coax it into the edges.

5. Sprinkle that crispy bacon and the grated Gruyère on the bottom of the crust, making sure it’s evenly distributed.

6. Pour the egg mixture gently over the bacon and cheese, ensuring it fills the crust but doesn’t overflow.

7. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. It should puff up and be set in the middle, with that gorgeous golden hue on top.

8. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing—trust me; you want those slices to stay intact!

How to plate and pair

When it comes to serving your quiche, you’ve got options! Slice it into wedges for an elegant touch, and feel free to garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives. A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a bright, refreshing contrast that pairs beautifully with the richness of the quiche. If you’re really in the mood for indulgence, serve with a side of crispy hash browns or a fruit platter for a sweet touch.

Keeping leftovers fresh

Now, let’s talk storage. Ideally, you want to keep your quiche in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will keep well for about 3-4 days. If you find yourself with leftovers you can’t eat right away, consider freezing individual slices. Just wrap them tightly and store them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, toss a slice in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s warmed through and the crust is crispy again.

Pro chef tips

To ensure your quiche turns out perfectly, here are a few extra nuggets of wisdom:

• Blind Bake the Crust: If you want a crispy crust, blind bake it for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps prevent it from getting soggy.

• Let it Rest: Allowing the quiche to rest post-baking is essential. This gives the custard time to set, preventing it from being too runny when you slice into it.

• Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to swap in or add veggies, cheeses, or even herbs. Spinach, leeks, or bell peppers can make for delicious additions or substitutions!

Creative Twists

Got a little culinary spirit? Try customizing your quiche! Add sautéed spinach for a pop of color or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair. You can even go the brunchy route with smoked salmon and dill. The beauty of quiche lies in its versatility; let your taste buds be your guide!

Ingredients

• 1 pie crust
• 6 slices of bacon
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Nutmeg (optional)

Directions to follow

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
3. Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg in a bowl.
4. Place the pie crust in a pie dish and sprinkle bacon and Gruyère cheese on the bottom.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the bacon and cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until set and golden on top.
7. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Your questions answered

1. How long does it take to make? The total time, including prep and baking, is about 1 hour.
2. Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep it a day or two in advance and just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
3. What pairs well with Quiche Lorraine? A light salad or some fresh fruit makes a great accompaniment.
4. Can I freeze quiche? Yes! It freezes beautifully. Just thaw and reheat in the oven.
5. Is it healthy? While it’s indulgent, you can use whole ingredients and modify the fats for a slightly lighter dish!

With this Classic Quiche Lorraine, you’re not just following a recipe; you’re creating a culinary experience that will draw people to your kitchen with aromas and flavors they can’t resist. So, roll up those sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start cooking! Join the joy of cooking in your own space and don’t forget to share your creations with friends or even the wider cooking community. Happy cooking!

Use Your Leftovers

Reduce food waste by making these recipes with your leftover ingredients:

Loaded Mashed Potato Cake

♻️ Uses leftover bacon40%

Creamy Salmon Broccoli Pasta

♻️ Uses leftover heavy cream40%

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Classic Quiche Lorraine

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time Cook Time Rest Time Total Time 65 hrs

Cooking Temp: 375  F Servings: 6 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 350

Best Season: Year-round

Description

Classic Quiche Lorraine is a comforting and elegant dish featuring a rich filling of eggs, cream, Gruyère cheese, and crispy bacon in a flaky crust. Perfect for brunch or as a delightful lunch option.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 pie crust pie crust (can be homemade or store-bought)
• 6 slices bacon (good quality, can substitute with turkey bacon or mushrooms)
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese (can substitute with Emmental or aged cheddar)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half as a lighter option)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Nutmeg (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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2. Cook the Bacon

   In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
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3. Make the Egg Mixture

   In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until creamy.
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4. Prepare the Crust

   Place your pie crust in a pie dish, ensuring it fits snugly into the edges.
   Mark as complete

5. Assemble the Quiche

   Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and grated Gruyère cheese evenly on the bottom of the crust. Pour the egg mixture over the top.
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6. Bake

   Slide it into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden.
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7. Cool and Serve

   Let the quiche cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
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Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 350kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 22g34%

Saturated Fat 10g50%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 150mg50%

Sodium 600mg25%

Potassium 200mg6%

Total Carbohydrate 30g10%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%

Sugars 1g

Protein 12g24%

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Vitamin A 500 IU

Vitamin C 0 mg

Calcium 250 mg

Iron 2 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 1 IU

Vitamin K 2 mcg

Thiamin 0 mg

Riboflavin 0.5 mg

Niacin 1 mg

Vitamin B6 0 mg

Folate 20 mcg

Vitamin B12 1 mcg

Biotin 0 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 0 mg

Phosphorus 300 mg

Iodine 0 mcg

Magnesium 15 mg

Zinc 2 mg

Selenium 10 mcg

Copper 0 mg

Manganese 0 mg

Chromium 0 mcg

Molybdenum 0 mcg

Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a healthier option, use low-fat cream and less bacon or substitute with vegetables.

Keywords: Quiche Lorraine, brunch, savory pie, breakfast, classic recipes