If you’re on the lookout for a dish that brings together rich, comforting flavors with just the right amount of savory punch, this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe is here to steal your heart. Imagine a buttery pie crust cradling a custardy filling studded with sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and sweet pimentos—all baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a cozy dinner with friends and family. Trust me, once you make this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe, it will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, but each one plays a starring role in building the quiche’s unbeatable flavor and texture. From the flaky crust that provides the perfect base to the creamy, cheesy filling, every component is essential for that delightful balance.
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked: Choose a high-quality crust for a flaky and buttery foundation that holds the filling perfectly.
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar lends a bold, tangy richness that melts beautifully inside the quiche.
- 3/4 to 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon: The smoky saltiness of bacon adds incredible depth—homemade or quality pre-cooked pieces both work wonderfully.
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, well drained: These sweet, tender pimentos provide a lovely pop of color and gentle sweetness to balance the bacon.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs are the binding agent that create a luscious, custard-like texture in the quiche.
- 1 cup whole milk: Whole milk enriches the custard for a creamy mouthfeel.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The cream deepens the richness, making the filling decadently smooth.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough pepper to add a subtle hint of warmth and spice.
How to Make Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F, and place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack so it heats up along with your oven. This little trick ensures your quiche cooks evenly and the crust crisps up beautifully.
Step 2: Layer the Filling
Next, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly across the bottom of your unbaked pie crust. Over the cheese, scatter the well-drained diced pimentos, ensuring their vibrant red hue shines through. Then, generously sprinkle the crumbled cooked bacon on top, setting the stage for all those rich, smoky flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until smooth and fully combined. This mixture is what will give your quiche that silky, custardy texture you’re dreaming of.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Carefully pour the egg mixture into the pie crust over the layered filling—be mindful not to overfill to prevent spills while baking. Then, transfer your quiche onto the preheated baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and just starting to turn golden on the edges. Let it cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps everything firm up perfectly for clean, satisfying slices.
How to Serve Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A light dusting of black pepper or flaky sea salt adds that final touch of flavor contrast, making each bite a well-rounded experience.
Side Dishes
This quiche pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted seasonal vegetables or a simple fruit salad can also bring a refreshing balance to your meal, making it feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special brunch or gathering, serve the quiche in individual-sized ramekins for a charming single-serve presentation. Alternatively, slice it into wedges and arrange on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh bread, pickled vegetables, or a selection of cheeses to create a delightful sharing platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover quiche can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent it from picking up any fridge odors.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this quiche later, you can freeze it either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the quiche and wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil, then bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes. For baked quiche, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until warmed through to keep the crust crispy. Microwaving works too but may make the crust soggy, so use this method mainly if you’re short on time.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! A good quality store-bought crust can save time and still yield delicious results. Just make sure it’s a deep dish crust to accommodate all the filling nicely.
What can I substitute for pimentos?
If you don’t have pimentos on hand, diced roasted red peppers make a great substitute with a similar sweetness and color.
Is it possible to make this quiche vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and texture without losing that satisfying filling feel.
How do I know when the quiche is done?
The quiche is done when the filling is set and no longer jiggly in the center. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean or with just a little moisture clinging to it.
Can I use low-fat milk or cream?
You can substitute low-fat milk or cream, but keep in mind the quiche might be less rich and creamy. For the best texture, whole milk and heavy cream are recommended.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe brings simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch or an easy weeknight dinner, it promises to delight every taste bud. I can’t wait for you to try it out and make it a cherished recipe in your own kitchen!
Print
Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This savory Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche combines a flaky deep-dish pie crust with sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and sweet pimentos, all enveloped in a rich custard of eggs, milk, and cream. Perfect for brunch or a comforting dinner, this quiche bakes to golden perfection and is best served warm.
Ingredients
Crust and Cheese
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Fillings
- 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
Egg 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 your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack to heat while you prepare the quiche. This hot baking sheet helps ensure a crisp crust bottom.
- Assemble Cheese and Fillings: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly into the bottom of the unbaked pie crust. Layer the well-drained diced pimentos evenly over the cheese, followed by an even layer of crumbled cooked bacon on top.
- Mix Egg Custard: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully blended. Carefully pour this egg mixture into the pie crust over the layered ingredients, making sure not to overfill.
- Bake the Quiche: Transfer the prepared pie crust with fillings onto the preheated baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the quiche filling is fully set and the top is lightly golden. It should not jiggle when shaken gently.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack or counter for about 15 minutes to allow the custard to set further. Slice into 8 servings and serve warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- Use a deep-dish pie crust for a thicker quiche with plenty of filling.
- Crumbled bacon can be substituted with precooked bacon pieces for convenience.
- Ensure pimentos are well drained to prevent a soggy crust.
- Preheating the baking sheet helps achieve a crisp, golden crust bottom.
- The quiche can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
- Allow the quiche to cool slightly before slicing to prevent cracking or crumbling.
