Looking for a dish that combines the comfort of a buttery crust with the savory richness of cheese and bacon? This Traditional Cheese and Bacon Quiche is just the ticket. With a crispy crust and a creamy, cheesy filling, it's perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner.
Pie crust is the foundation of the quiche, providing a buttery, flaky base that holds everything together. Bacon adds a smoky, salty element that pairs beautifully with the cheeses. We use a combination of cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan cheeses to create a rich, layered flavor profile. Eggs are the binding agent, creating a custard-like filling when mixed with half-and-half. A touch of salt, black pepper, and nutmeg enhances the overall taste, while melted butter brushed on the crust edges ensures a golden-brown finish.
This quiche pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a warm soup. If you're hosting brunch, consider adding fresh fruit or a side of crusty bread.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). You'll want to give it time to reach the right temperature. Next, roll out your pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim any extra dough hanging over the edges. To avoid any unwanted bubbles, take a fork and gently prick the bottom of the crust. Pop it in the oven for a quick prebake of 10 minutes.
While the crust is baking, grab a skillet and cook your bacon over medium heat. Aim for that perfect crispiness. Once done, let the bacon cool on paper towels to soak up any excess grease, then chop it into small, bite-sized pieces.
Now, let's layer the flavors. Start by sprinkling the shredded cheddar, Swiss, and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly across the bottom of your pre-baked pie crust. Follow up by spreading the chopped bacon over the cheese. This ensures every bite is packed with savory goodness.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt, black pepper, and a dash of nutmeg until well combined. Pour this mixture over the bacon and cheese layers in the pie crust, making sure it's evenly distributed.
For that final touch, brush the edges of the pie crust with melted butter. This will give your crust a beautiful golden finish. Slide the quiche into your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. It's done when the filling is set and the top is a lovely golden brown.
Once baked, let the quiche cool for at least 10 minutes before you slice and serve. This resting time helps the filling firm up and makes slicing easier.