If you’re craving a dish that brings together the smoky goodness of bacon with the creamy, tangy delight of pimento cheese, look no further than this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe. It’s a flavorful, comforting meal that’s perfect whether you’re hosting brunch, feeding a crowd, or just wanting to treat yourself to something truly special. With its flaky crust, melty cheddar, savory bacon, and vibrant bursts of pimentos, this quiche never fails to impress and satisfies every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the rich texture and harmonious flavors that make this dish a keeper.
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked: A sturdy, flaky base that holds all the delicious fillings perfectly.
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharpness adds depth and lends that signature gooey cheese pull.
- 3/4 to 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon: Smoky crunch adds irresistible flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, well drained: Sweet and slightly tangy jewels that bring a pop of color and brightness.
- 4 large eggs: The binding agent that holds the quiche together with a luscious, custardy feel.
- 1 cup whole milk: Creaminess that balances richness and keeps the filling light.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds indulgence and a silky smooth finish.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances and elevates all the savory notes in the quiche.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough bite to round out the flavor profile.
How to Make Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 375°F. Place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack to warm up with the oven. This step is a clever trick to ensure the quiche cooks evenly and the crust crisps up just right.
Step 2: Layer the Cheese, Pimentos, and Bacon
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the bottom of your unbaked pie crust. Next, scatter the well-drained diced pimentos over the cheddar, adding those lovely bursts of color and flavor. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled cooked bacon on top, distributing it evenly to make sure every bite has that irresistible smoky crunch.
Step 3: Mix the Custard Filling
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. This custard blend is what transforms the ingredients into a rich, creamy filling that sets perfectly in the oven. Mixing these just until combined ensures a silky texture without bubbles.
Step 4: Pour and Bake the Quiche
Slowly pour your egg mixture into the crust, careful not to overfill so it doesn’t spill over during baking. Place the quiche on the preheated baking sheet to promote even cooking and a golden crust. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the quiche is set and slightly puffed. Let it cool about 15 minutes before slicing—this resting time helps it slice neatly and lets all those flavors marry wonderfully.
How to Serve Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley adds a lovely herbaceous note and bright green color, making your quiche look as good as it tastes. You can also add a tiny pinch of smoked paprika on top for an earthy aroma that complements the bacon beautifully.
Side Dishes
This bacon and pimento cheese quiche pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh side salads dressed in light vinaigrettes or a simple bowl of roasted seasonal vegetables. If you want to lean into brunch vibes, serve with warm crusty bread or buttery croissants and a bowl of fresh fruit to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming gathering or potluck, try making mini versions of this quiche in a muffin tin. They cook faster, are perfectly portioned, and look adorable. Another fun idea is to serve a wedge alongside a poached egg on top or dollops of avocado salsa for a fresh, modern twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover bites of the Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool the quiche completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This quiche freezes beautifully! Wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. They keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your quiche slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 to 15 minutes so the crust stays crisp and the filling warms evenly. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess and lost flavor. A warm quiche is just as comforting and delicious the second time around!
FAQs
Can I use pre-made bacon bits instead of cooking bacon?
Absolutely! Using a bag of precooked real bacon pieces saves time and works perfectly in this recipe without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Is it necessary to use both milk and heavy cream?
Using both milk and cream strikes the perfect balance between richness and lightness, creating that silky texture you want in a quiche. You could use all cream for a richer dish or all milk for a lighter one, but this combo is ideal.
Can I substitute the sharp cheddar with another cheese?
Sure! Try sharp white cheddar, gouda, or even pepper jack for a little extra kick. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well and has good flavor to complement the bacon and pimentos.
What if I don’t have a deep dish pie crust?
A regular pie crust works just fine, though the quiche might be a little thinner. Just keep an eye on your baking time as it could bake faster.
Can I make this quiche gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the regular pie crust with your favorite gluten-free crust. The filling recipe stays the same and tastes just as amazing without gluten.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite for many, and once you try it, you’ll see why. It blends bold flavors, creamy textures, and hearty ingredients into a beautiful meal that feels both homey and a little special. Whether you’re making it for brunch, lunch, or a cozy dinner, this quiche is sure to bring smiles all around. Give it a go and make it your own — I promise, it’s worth every delicious bite!
Print
Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche is a savory, indulgent dish featuring a flaky deep-dish crust filled with sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and sweet pimentos, all enveloped in a rich egg custard. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a comforting dinner, this quiche offers a delightful balance of creamy and crispy textures with every bite.
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
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack of the oven to preheat. This ensures a hot surface to start baking the quiche evenly.
- Prepare Filling Base: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly into the bottom of the unbaked pie crust. Then, evenly distribute the well-drained diced pimentos on top of the cheese, followed by an even layer of crumbled cooked bacon.
- Make Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard mixture will bind the ingredients and create a creamy texture when baked.
- Fill the Crust: Carefully pour the egg custard mixture over the cheese, bacon, and pimentos in the pie crust. Be careful not to overfill to prevent spilling during baking.
- Bake the Quiche: Place the prepared 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 near the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly golden and the filling firm.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. This resting time helps the quiche to set further, making it easier to slice and serve. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a crispier crust bottom, preheating the baking sheet is key to a quick browning of the pie base.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of bacon according to your taste preferences.
- Use whole milk and heavy cream for a richer custard; substitutions with lower-fat dairy may affect texture and taste.
- Allow the quiche to cool slightly before slicing to achieve clean slices and avoid a runny filling.
