If you are craving a savory, comforting dish that elevates every brunch or casual dinner gathering, then this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine the rich, sharp cheddar melding perfectly with smoky bacon and the subtle sweetness of diced pimentos, all nestled in a flaky deep dish pie crust. This quiche offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds—and maybe thirds. It’s a classic Southern-inspired delight that’s surprisingly easy to prepare yet impressively delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe shine, you’ll want to use simple, quality ingredients that each play a vital role in crafting the perfect bite. Every component, from the sharp cheddar cheese to the fresh eggs, is key to balancing richness, creaminess, and a touch of tangy sweetness.
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked: The sturdy base that holds all the wonderful fillings together with a buttery, flaky texture.
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides bold flavor and a wonderfully melty texture that complements the other ingredients.
- 3/4 to 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon (or 1 (2.8-ounce) bag precooked real bacon pieces): Adds a smoky, savory crunch that makes every bite irresistible.
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, well drained: Offers a pop of color and a mild, sweet peppery flavor that brightens the quiche.
- 4 large eggs: The essential binder that brings this quiche to life with a rich custard texture.
- 1 cup whole milk: Contributes creaminess and balances the egg custard for a tender finish.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Boosts the richness and silky smoothness of the custard filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of spice to cut through the richness.
How to Make Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. To ensure your crust bakes evenly and crisply, place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack to heat alongside the oven. This trick helps deliver a perfectly cooked bottom crust that’s neither soggy nor underdone.
Step 2: Layer the Cheese, Pimentos, and Bacon
Sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese evenly into the bottom of your unbaked pie crust. Follow that with a layer of well-drained diced pimentos, scattering them evenly to ensure bursts of flavor throughout. Finally, generously top with crumbled cooked bacon, distributing it so that every slice will have some of its smoky goodness.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. This luscious custard mixture is the heart of the quiche, providing a tender, rich filling that complements the savory toppings. Pour it carefully over the layered ingredients in the crust—be mindful not to overfill.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your quiche onto the preheated baking sheet inside the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. The edges will puff slightly during baking but will settle as it cools. Once done, allow the quiche to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing—this step helps the filling firm up and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing, simplicity is best. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh pop of color and a subtle oniony brightness that contrasts beautifully with the quiche’s rich flavors. You could also add a few extra diced pimentos on top for visual appeal and a tiny bit more sweetness.
Side Dishes
This quiche pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides to balance its richness. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a bowl of seasonal fruit for a refreshing contrast. Roasted asparagus or a simple tomato salad also complement the savory elements perfectly without overpowering the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch spread, slice the quiche into bite-sized squares and serve on a large platter with an assortment of colorful veggies, nuts, or even pickles on the side. It also works great for picnics—just pack slices chilled or at room temperature. If you’re feeling playful, try topping individual slices with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for a flavor kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The quiche will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 to 4 days, making it an ideal option for quick breakfasts or lunches during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the quiche either whole or in individual slices. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil, or use a freezer-safe airtight container. Frozen quiche will maintain good quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the quiche for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps preserve the flaky crust and creamy filling far better than microwaving, which can sometimes make the crust soggy or the custard rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! A store-bought deep dish pie crust works perfectly for the Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe and saves time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Is there a way to make this quiche vegetarian?
Sure! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to keep things deliciously savory without meat.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something else?
Yes. You can use all whole milk or a combination of milk and half-and-half if you want to reduce the richness slightly, although heavy cream ensures that luscious custard texture.
How do I ensure the quiche filling is not watery?
Be sure to drain the diced pimentos well and avoid overfilling the crust with the egg mixture. Also, preheating the baking sheet before placing the quiche can help set the crust quickly, reducing sogginess.
Can I prepare this quiche the day before serving?
Yes, you can assemble the quiche and keep it covered in the refrigerator overnight. Bake it fresh the next day for the best texture and flavor results.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sinking your teeth into a warm slice of this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe. Its combination of smoky bacon, sharp cheese, and the subtle zing of pimentos makes it a standout dish you’ll return to again and again. Whether for a family brunch or a cozy dinner, I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite quiche!
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Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Brunch, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche is a savory and indulgent dish combining a flaky deep-dish pie crust with sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy pimentos. Perfect for brunch or a comforting meal, it boasts a creamy custard filling made with eggs, milk, and cream, baked until golden and set. The recipe yields a deliciously rich quiche that serves 8 and is simple to prepare using a conventional oven.
Ingredients
Crust and Cheese
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Meats and Vegetables
- 3/4 to 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon (or 1 (2.8-ounce) bag precooked real bacon pieces)
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, well drained
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack to preheat along with the oven. This will help ensure the quiche cooks evenly and the crust turns crisp.
- Assemble Base Layer: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly into the bottom of the unbaked pie crust. Then, distribute the well-drained diced pimentos over the cheese, followed by an even layer of crumbled cooked bacon. This layering creates a flavorful foundation for the custard filling.
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and smooth. This custard base provides the creamy texture and rich flavor of the quiche.
- Fill Crust: Carefully pour the custard mixture over the cheese, pimentos, and bacon in the pie crust. Take care not to overfill the crust to prevent spillage during baking.
- Bake the Quiche: Transfer the filled pie crust onto the preheated rimmed baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is slightly golden. The baking sheet helps ensure even heat distribution and catches any spills.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. This resting time helps the quiche to set further and makes slicing easier. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using a preheated baking sheet helps prevent a soggy crust by providing a hot surface for the quiche to bake on.
- Adjust bacon quantity based on preference for smokiness and saltiness.
- Allow the quiche to cool slightly before slicing to maintain clean slices.
- This quiche can be made a day ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter custard, if desired.
