Quiche Lorraine is a classic French dish that has become a staple in many households around the world. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. This dish is for anyone who appreciates a rich, savory pie that combines the creamy goodness of an egg custard with the smoky flavor of bacon and the unique taste of Gruyère cheese. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect Quiche Lorraine, including tips, variations, and everything you need to know to master this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Quiche Lorraine is perfect for:
- Busy individuals who need a quick and easy meal
- Brunch hosts looking for a crowd-pleasing dish
- Anyone who loves French cuisine
- Those who enjoy making versatile dishes that can be enjoyed at any time of day
Ingredients for Quiche Lorraine
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic dish:
- Pie crust – for convenience, we are using a frozen pie crust. You can also make a homemade pie crust if you prefer.
- Bacon – use good quality thick-cut bacon for the best flavor.
- Onion – preferably a sweet yellow onion for a mild, sweet taste.
- Eggs – large eggs work best.
- Heavy cream – adds richness to the custard.
- Milk – preferably whole or 2% for a creamy texture.
- Seasonings – kosher salt, black pepper, ground nutmeg, fresh parsley, chives, or thyme for garnish.
- Gruyère cheese – a smooth, melting Swiss cheese that gives the custard its unique flavor.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Pie dish
- Frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
Directions for Making Quiche Lorraine
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a frozen pie crust, follow the package instructions for thawing and prebaking.
- Cook the Bacon and Onion: In a frying pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. In the same pan, sauté the onion in the bacon fat until soft and translucent.
- Prepare the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and milk. Add a pinch of kosher salt, black pepper, and a dash of ground nutmeg.
- Assemble the Quiche: Sprinkle the cooked bacon and onion evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Add the grated Gruyère cheese. Pour the egg mixture over the fillings.
- Bake: Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or thyme. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Variations: If you can’t find Gruyère, Swiss or Emmental cheese are good substitutes.
- Crustless Quiche: For a lower-carb option, skip the pie crust and pour the mixture into a greased pie dish.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients such as diced ham, bell peppers, or leeks.
Storing Leftovers
Quiche Lorraine can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Food and Drink Pairings
- Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with Quiche Lorraine.
- Wine: Serve with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Coffee or Tea: Ideal for brunch, enjoy your quiche with a cup of coffee or a pot of Earl Grey tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze Quiche Lorraine? A: Yes, you can freeze quiche. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: How do I know when the quiche is done? A: The quiche is done when the custard is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Q: Can I use a store-bought pie crust? A: Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust works perfectly and saves time.
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We hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious Quiche Lorraine! If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family.