Homemade Quiche
This homemade quiche recipe features a buttery, flaky crust and a rich, creamy filling that is both comforting and indulgent. The perfect balance of eggs, cream, and cheese creates a luscious texture, while the crust provides a satisfying crunch.
Whether you're preparing a hearty breakfast, a light brunch, or even a cozy dinner, this quiche is the ultimate versatile dish. Customize it with your favorite cheeses, meats, and vegetables to suit your taste. Serve it warm for a comforting meal or enjoy it chilled for a refreshing twist - either way, it's guaranteed to be a hit at your table. Plus, it's easy to make ahead, making it a stress-free option for entertaining guests or meal prepping for the week.
Ingredients
-
Pie crust
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 Tablespoons (45g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ⅓ cup (65g) vegetable shortening, chilled
- ½ cup (120ml) ice water
- 5 large eggs
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, gruyere, feta, or goat cheese)
- Up to 2 cups mix-ins (cooked vegetables, meats, or seafood)
Filling
Method
- 1. Make the pie crust: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together.
- 2. Add the chilled butter and shortening, then use two forks or a pastry cutter to cut them into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- 3. Slowly drizzle in ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition, until the dough forms large clumps.
- 4. Transfer dough to a floured surface, shape into a ball, then flatten into a 1-inch thick disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- 5. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until it's about 12 inches in diameter, then carefully fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- 6. Tuck in the edges, trim any excess, and crimp as desired. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- 7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Blind bake for 15 minutes.
- 8. Remove the parchment paper and weights, then prick the bottom of the crust with a fork. Bake for another 7-8 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside.
- 9. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) while preparing the filling.
- 10. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- 11. Stir in shredded cheese and up to 2 cups of pre-cooked mix-ins like vegetables, meats, or seafood.
- 12. Pour the mixture into the pre-baked crust, ensuring mix-ins are evenly distributed.
- 13. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the center is just set. Cover the edges with foil or a pie crust shield if browning too quickly.
- 14. Allow the quiche to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
- 15. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
A Classic French Delight
Quiche is a beloved French dish that represents the pinnacle of culinary elegance and simplicity. Originating in the medieval German kingdom of Lothringen, which was later annexed by France and renamed Lorraine, the dish has a rich history that spans centuries. Its name derives from the German word "kuchen," meaning cake, which beautifully illustrates the dish's complex cultural roots that extend beyond traditional French boundaries.
At its core, quiche is a masterpiece of culinary simplicity: a delicate custard of eggs and cream nestled in a flaky pastry crust. This basic formula has allowed for incredible creativity and adaptation, making quiche a truly universal dish that transcends its original French origins. From humble farmhouse kitchens to sophisticated Parisian restaurants, quiche has demonstrated an remarkable ability to adapt and evolve while maintaining its essential character.
Variations and Culinary Creativity
The versatility of quiche is perhaps its most compelling attribute. Traditional versions have established a foundation for endless culinary exploration, proving that this dish is far more than a simple egg pie. Classic preparations like Quiche Lorraine set the standard, featuring a rich combination of bacon, cheese, and a silky egg custard that has become synonymous with French cuisine.
Regional and modern variations of quiche showcase the dish's incredible adaptability:
- Quiche Lorraine: The classic version with bacon and Gruyère cheese
- Vegetarian quiches featuring spinach, mushroom, or roasted vegetable fillings
- Seafood variations with salmon, crab, or shrimp
- Exotic versions incorporating global spices and ingredients
- Mini quiches perfect for appetizers and cocktail parties
Each variation tells a story of regional ingredients, cultural influences, and personal creativity. From the rich, meat-laden versions of northeastern France to the lighter, vegetable-focused interpretations of Mediterranean regions, quiche reflects the diverse culinary landscape of France and beyond.
A Timeless Culinary Experience
Beyond its gastronomic appeal, quiche represents a broader culinary philosophy that celebrates simplicity, quality ingredients, and the art of transformation. A well-made quiche can be served at virtually any temperature—piping hot from the oven, at room temperature, or even chilled—making it an incredibly versatile dish for home cooks and professional chefs alike.
The global popularity of quiche speaks to its fundamental appeal: a perfect balance of texture, flavor, and nutritional value. Whether served as a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or an elegant dinner course, quiche continues to captivate food lovers around the world. It embodies the French culinary principle of turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary, a testament to the creativity and skill of generations of cooks.
In essence, quiche is more than just a dish—it's a celebration of culinary tradition, innovation, and the joy of sharing a meal. Each slice tells a story of cultural exchange, regional pride, and the universal language of delicious food.
Bon appétit!