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If you are searching for a savory, comforting, and utterly irresistible brunch or dinner option, this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. Combining crispy, smoky bacon with the creamy, tangy richness of pimento cheese nestled in a buttery, flaky pie crust, this quiche delivers layers of flavor and texture that make every bite a true delight. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, yet feels like a special treat that will impress your family and guests alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role in building complex flavors—the sharp cheddar provides a rich tang, the bacon adds irresistible smokiness, and the pimentos bring a subtle brightness that ties everything together.
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked: A flaky, buttery base that creates the perfect structure to hold all the delicious fillings.
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharpness that melts beautifully and gives the quiche its iconic bold flavor.
- 3/4 to 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon: Crisp, smoky bacon pieces add a wonderful savory crunch; feel free to use precooked real bacon pieces for convenience.
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, well drained: These sweet and tangy red peppers add pops of color and a gentle contrast to the richness.
- 4 large eggs: The binding agent that brings the custard together, creating a smooth and tender quiche filling.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps balance the egg’s texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Intensifies the luxurious, creamy filling that everyone adores.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just enough seasoning to elevate all the flavors.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle peppery kick to finish the seasoning perfectly.
How to Make Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and placing a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack to heat as well. This tip ensures your quiche’s crust gets that delightful crispness on the bottom without becoming soggy from the creamy filling.
Step 2: Layer the Cheese, Pimentos, and Bacon
Take your unbaked pie crust and carefully sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly across the bottom. Over the cheese, scatter the well-drained diced pimentos in a uniform layer. Finally, add your crumbled cooked bacon pieces on top to create that perfect savory crown. These layers create a beautiful balance of flavors that meld during baking.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until fully combined. This smooth custard mixture is the quiche’s heart and soul, delivering a luscious custard that perfectly complements the bold cheese and bacon.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Gently and carefully pour your egg mixture into the prepared crust, ensuring you don’t overfill so it bakes evenly without spilling. Place the quiche on the preheated baking sheet in your oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. After baking, allow the quiche to cool about 15 minutes—it helps the filling finish setting and makes slicing easier.
How to Serve Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of green and a fresh herbal note that brightens the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, a few extra diced pimentos on top provide a charming, colorful garnish that hints at the flavors inside.
Side Dishes
This quiche pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like a simple mixed green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. Roasted asparagus or fresh tomato slices also balance the richness of the quiche, creating a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve warm slices on rustic wooden boards for a cozy brunch vibe, or plate them on elegant white dishes with a drizzle of hot sauce or a side of avocado slices for a trendy twist. Quiche can also be cut into small squares for bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. Refrigerate and consume within 3 to 4 days to savor the freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Quiche freezes beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead meal. To freeze, wrap the cooled quiche tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your quiche is in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method keeps the crust crisp and the filling creamy, unlike microwaving which can make it a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! Using a high-quality store-bought deep dish pie crust saves time and works perfectly for this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe without sacrificing flavor.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with more whole milk or half-and-half. The texture might be a little less rich but still delicious.
Can this quiche be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the quiche the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh the next day for best results.
Is this quiche suitable for freezing?
Definitely! Both baked and unbaked quiche freeze well. Just follow proper wrapping and thawing instructions to maintain quality.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover quiche?
Reheating in the oven is ideal to keep the crust crisp and the filling creamy. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the original texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe brings a classic Southern favorite into a rich, filling dish that’s perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re making it for a casual breakfast, a brunch with friends, or a comforting dinner, it’s guaranteed to delight your taste buds and warm your heart. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite quiche!
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Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche is a savory, rich dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. The combination of sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and zesty pimentos creates a flavorful filling nestled inside a tender, flaky pie crust. Baked to golden perfection, this quiche offers a creamy, custardy texture that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
Crust and Filling
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 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
Egg Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack to heat up alongside the oven. This will help the quiche bake evenly and prevent a soggy crust.
- Assemble the base: 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 the crumbled cooked bacon on top.
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Fill the crust: Carefully pour the egg mixture into the pie crust over the cheese, pimentos, and bacon, taking care not to overfill the crust to avoid spills while baking.
- Bake the quiche: Place the assembled quiche on the preheated baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the quiche is fully set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden.
- Cool and serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. This resting time helps the quiche set further for easier slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the pimentos are well drained to prevent excess moisture in the quiche.
- You can substitute precooked bacon pieces for convenience.
- If you prefer a crustless quiche, omit the pie crust and bake the filling in a greased pie dish.
- Letting the quiche cool before slicing helps maintain clean slices and good texture.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
