Nothing quite beats the comforting, savory goodness of a Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe that brings together flaky crust, rich eggs, gooey cheese, and hearty ham in one delicious slice. This dish is a perfect combination of textures and flavors that feels both indulgent and homemade. Whether you’re craving a brunch classic, a light dinner, or an impressive dish to share at your next gathering, this quiche is sure to satisfy those appetites and warm every heart around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is surprisingly simple but absolutely key to nailing this Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe. Each component plays an essential role, from the buttery crust that anchors the recipe to the creamy custard filling that melts in your mouth.
- Pie crust: A single, unbaked pie crust forms the perfect crispy and flaky base for the quiche.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups, divided): Sharp and melty, cheddar adds richness and a beautiful golden top.
- Large eggs (6): Eggs provide structure and creaminess to the quiche’s custard filling.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Helps create that velvety texture and rich mouthfeel that every quiche needs.
- Whole milk (1/4 cup): Lightens the custard slightly while ensuring a tender bake.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- Nutmeg (1 pinch): Adds a subtle warm spice that complements the eggs and cheese beautifully.
- Ground black pepper (to taste): Brings a gentle heat and depth to the filling.
- Diced cooked ham (1 heaping cup): Offers a savory and smoky bite that’s the star protein.
- Sliced green onions (2 tablespoons): Provide freshness and a slight crunch.
- Chopped chives (1 tablespoon): Lend a mild onion flavor and sprightly color contrast.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9-inch pie dish to ensure the quiche crust doesn’t stick. Carefully fit the pie crust into the dish and crimp the top edges to give it that charming, homemade look. If you want a very crisp crust or if your oven heats unevenly, pre-baking the crust for about 8 minutes is a fantastic idea to avoid sogginess later. Don’t forget to sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar on the crust bottom; it acts as a delicious barrier against the filling’s moisture while adding cheesy bursts in each bite.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the six eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, salt, nutmeg, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and combined. This custard mixture is the heart of the quiche, responsible for that beautifully soft yet firm texture once baked. The hint of nutmeg adds an aromatic lift that makes the flavors sing.
Step 3: Assemble the Quiche Filling
Begin layering your diced ham evenly over the cheese-lined crust, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar on top. Add the sliced green onions and chopped chives next to distribute their fresh, zesty notes throughout the quiche. Pour the egg mixture carefully over this filling, allowing it to settle evenly. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese on top to create a stunning melted cheese cap as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Position your quiche one rung below the middle rack and pop it in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to get things started. Then lower the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for another 25 to 35 minutes until the center sets like a dream. Keep an eye on the crust edges and shield them if they are browning too fast—this keeps everything perfectly golden without burning. Let it cool for at least 20 to 30 minutes before slicing; this resting time helps the quiche hold together beautifully, making each slice picture-perfect.
How to Serve Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like extra chopped chives or parsley sprinkled on top add a pop of color and an inviting aroma that brightens the dish right before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can also elevate the experience with creamy tang or gentle heat.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the quiche fantastically, balancing the meal with freshness. Roasted or steamed vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, add color and nourishment, making your meal feel well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming brunch, serve your Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe in small individual tart pans or muffin tins for personal-sized portions that wow guests. Pair the slices with a colorful fruit plate or a freshly-baked baguette to create a delightful spread that invites everyone to dig in happily.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, cover your leftover Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent make-ahead option for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
This quiche also freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole quiche tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 1 month, ready to thaw and enjoy whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat slices gently in the oven at 325°F for 10 to 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave if you’re in a hurry, but reheating in the oven helps keep the crust crispy and the filling perfectly tender.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust for this quiche?
Absolutely! A homemade crust adds a wonderful personal touch and flavor. Just make sure it’s rolled out to fit your 9-inch pie dish and follow the pre-baking tip if you want extra crispiness.
What type of ham works best for this recipe?
Any diced cooked ham will work well, whether it’s leftover holiday ham, deli ham, or ham steak. Just avoid overly salty or heavily smoked varieties to keep the flavors balanced.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes! While cheddar is classic, Swiss, Gruyère, or even a mix of cheeses can add interesting flavors. Choose cheeses that melt well for that creamy texture we all love.
Is it possible to make this quiche dairy-free or lower in fat?
You can try substituting heavy cream and milk with dairy-free milk alternatives and use a dairy-free cheese, but the texture might differ slightly. For lower fat, try half-and-half instead of heavy cream and use a reduced-fat cheese.
How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?
The center should be set and not jiggly; a knife inserted into the middle should come out clean or with just a slight custard residue. If you notice it still looks wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that feels both special and comforting every time. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a flavorful, satisfying dish perfect for any meal. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and discover just how effortlessly delicious homemade quiche can be. Happy baking!
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Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic and savory Ham and Cheese Quiche featuring a rich egg custard, diced ham, cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs baked in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this quiche combines creamy textures with the smoky flavor of ham and the sharpness of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 single pie crust (unbaked)
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch nutmeg
- ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 heaping cup diced cooked ham
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9-inch pie dish to prevent sticking, preferably glass or metal. Fit the unbaked pie crust into the dish and crimp the edges as you like. For a crisper bottom crust or if your oven heats unevenly, consider pre-baking the crust for 8 minutes before adding filling. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on the bottom of the crust for extra flavor and to help keep it from getting soggy.
- Combine egg mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together six large eggs, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup whole milk, salt, a pinch of nutmeg, and black pepper to taste. This mixture forms the creamy custard base of the quiche.
- Assemble quiche: Evenly distribute the diced cooked ham, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped chives over the cheese-lined crust. Pour the egg mixture carefully over this filling. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese on top to create a golden, cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Bake: Place the quiche on a rack one level below the center of your preheated oven. Bake initially at 375°F for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for an additional 25 to 35 minutes. The quiche is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles. To prevent over-browning of the crust edges, use a pie crust shield if needed. Once baked, let the quiche cool for 20 to 30 minutes to set further before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You may pre-bake the crust for a crispier bottom if desired.
- Pie crust shields or aluminum foil strips can help prevent edges from burning.
- Letting the quiche cool before slicing ensures perfect cuts and better texture.
- You can substitute ham with cooked bacon or sausage for variation.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to customize the filling.
