Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe

This Ham and Cheese Quiche recipe combines a flaky crust, savory ham, fresh spinach, and a creamy, cheesy filling to create the ultimate breakfast, brunch, or dinner dish. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this versatile quiche will impress family and guests alike. Whether you prefer it with a crust or crustless, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization.

Ingredients:

• 1 frozen or refrigerated pie crust (optional if going crustless)
• 1 small onion
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup ham, diced
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 4 eggs
• 1 egg yolk
• 1¼ cup half and half
• 1 cup cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese

Garnish Options:

• Chopped bacon
• Green onions
• Parsley

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
   • Follow the instructions on the pie crust package. If using a frozen crust, allow it to thaw as directed. Some crusts may require pre-baking before adding the filling, so check the packaging for details.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Caramelize the Onion:
   • Slice the onion into ½-inch strips. Avoid cutting too thin as they will shrink during cooking.
   • Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onion slices and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until they caramelize and turn golden brown.
4. Cook the Ham and Spinach:
   • Add the diced ham to the skillet with the onions. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
   • Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, and half and half for about 1 minute until smooth and well combined.
6. Assemble the Quiche:
   • Lightly grease a 9-inch pie pan or springform pan. Lay the pie crust into the pan, pressing it gently into place.
   • Evenly spread the ham, onions, and spinach mixture over the bottom of the crust. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
   • Pour the egg mixture into the crust, leaving a small gap at the top to prevent overflow as the quiche bakes.
   • Sprinkle the remaining cheeses over the egg mixture.
7. Bake the Quiche:
   • Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and the center should be set.
   • If the crust begins to overbrown, use a pie crust shield to prevent further browning.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the quiche cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
   • Garnish with chopped bacon, green onions, and/or parsley as desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ham and Cheese Quiche is the perfect combination of savory flavors and creamy texture. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and works wonderfully for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. The addition of caramelized onions and spinach elevates the taste, making it a dish that everyone will enjoy.

Tips

• Caramelizing Onions: Be patient while caramelizing the onions. Stir them frequently to avoid burning and ensure they develop a rich, sweet flavor.
• Pre-Baking the Crust: If your crust requires pre-baking, use pie weights or dried beans to prevent it from puffing up.
• Preventing Overflow: Leave some room at the top of the pie crust as the egg mixture will rise slightly during baking.
• Checking Doneness: Insert a toothpick or knife into the center of the quiche; it should come out clean when the quiche is done.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ham for sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
• Cheese Substitutions: Use Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Milk Alternative: Replace half and half with heavy cream or whole milk for a creamier or lighter version, respectively.
• Crustless Quiche: Omit the pie crust and grease the pie pan well for a low-carb option.

FAQs

Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the quiche and refrigerate it before baking. Alternatively, bake it fully, cool, and reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.

How should I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate leftover quiche for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Can I freeze quiche?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F.

Serving Suggestions

This quiche pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, fruit salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier spread, serve with crusty bread or breakfast potatoes. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family brunch!