Classic Quiche Lorraine Recipe

This Classic Quiche Lorraine recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves savory breakfast or brunch options. Made with a rich and creamy filling of bacon, cheese, and onions, all baked in a buttery pie crust, it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a brunch party, serving it for breakfast, or preparing a weeknight dinner, this quiche is a crowd-pleaser.

Packed with ingredients like sharp cheddar cheese, Gruyère, and crispy bacon, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish. The easy-to-follow instructions make this recipe accessible even for beginners. Plus, it can be customized with various vegetables or meats, making it versatile for any taste preference.

Ingredients:

• 1 pie crust (1 frozen crust or 1/2 recipe for a double pie crust)
• 1/2 lb bacon, thinly sliced and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (sharp white cheddar or Gruyère is ideal)
• 1 3/4 cups half and half (or equal parts whole milk and heavy cream)
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 egg white (for brushing the crust)

Instructions:

Prepare the Pie Crust:

1. If using a store-bought pie crust, follow the package instructions for pre-baking, or prepare a homemade pie crust and chill it.
2. Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface or between parchment paper to about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully transfer the dough to a tart pan or deep pie pan and press it into place.
3. Freeze the crust for about 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F.

Pre-Bake the Crust:

1. If using a store-bought crust, follow the pre-baking instructions.
2. If using homemade dough, remove the crust from the freezer, and blind-bake it. Poke the bottom of the crust with a fork and line it with parchment paper or foil. Fill it with pie weights and bake at 350°F for about 35-40 minutes until the crust is lightly golden.
3. After baking, remove the pie weights and parchment, then brush the inside of the tart with a whisked egg white to prevent sogginess from the filling.

Make the Savory Egg Filling:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside.
2. Add the diced onions to the bacon fat in the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden. Remove and add to the bacon.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg for about a minute to incorporate air into the custard. Stir in the cheese, cooked bacon, and onions.

Bake the Quiche Lorraine:

1. Pour the egg mixture into the pre-baked crust and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 50 minutes. The quiche is done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, and the center slightly jiggles.
2. Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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Tips:

• Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. Gruyère or sharp cheddar will add depth to the quiche.
• Let the quiche rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to set the custard and prevent it from being too runny.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Swap the bacon for ham or sausage for a different flavor.
• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes to make a more veggie-packed version.
• You can use milk instead of half-and-half for a lighter version.

FAQs:

• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the quiche up to 1 day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
• Can I freeze the quiche? Yes, once baked and cooled, wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven from frozen.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this quiche Lorraine with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
• Pair it with a light vinaigrette or a dollop of crème fraîche for added richness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Classic flavors of bacon, cheese, and onions come together in a rich custard for a comforting and savory dish.
• This easy-to-make quiche can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner!
• It’s the perfect dish to customize with your favorite fillings, making it versatile for any occasion.