If you love the comforting combination of smoky bacon and creamy cheese, you are going to fall head over heels for this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe. It’s a luscious, savory pie that brings together sharp cheddar, tangy pimentos, and crispy bacon in a golden, flaky crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a cozy dinner, this quiche is not only bursting with flavor but also surprisingly simple to make, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to share with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each adding its own unique touch. From the creamy richness of the dairy to the smoky crunch of bacon, every bite is perfectly balanced in flavor and texture.
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked: Your buttery foundation for holding all those delicious fillings together with a flaky texture.
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides a bold, tangy kick and melts beautifully for that gooey appeal.
- 3/4 to 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon: Offers irresistible smoky crunch; precooked bacon pieces work great for saving time.
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, well drained: Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, brightening every slice.
- 4 large eggs: The core binding agent that gives the quiche its rich and custardy texture.
- 1 cup whole milk: Brings creaminess and smoothness to the egg mixture without overpowering flavors.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Elevates the quiche with extra richness and a silky finish.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory notes without making it too salty.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle touch of heat and depth.
How to Make Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack. This trick helps ensure an evenly baked, perfectly set quiche by providing steady heat and catching any spills.
Step 2: Layer the Cheese, Pimentos, and Bacon
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly into the bottom of the unbaked pie crust. Next, scatter the well-drained diced pimentos across the cheese, followed by a generous sprinkle of crumbled bacon on top. This layering creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until smooth and uniform. This rich custard base will hold all your fillings together, creating that signature luscious quiche texture.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the cheese, pimentos, and bacon in the pie crust, being cautious not to overfill to avoid any spillage. Place the quiche on the preheated baking sheet in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is just starting to turn golden.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the quiche to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps it firm up so each slice holds together beautifully, ready for your table and eager taste buds.
How to Serve Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe even more inviting, try garnishing with fresh chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and herbal brightness. A small dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can add an exciting contrast and a creamy, tangy bite.
Side Dishes
This quiche pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Think arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or simple sliced tomatoes tossed in olive oil and sea salt. These sides complement the richness of the quiche while keeping the meal balanced and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch gathering, serve your quiche in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Or, set up a quiche bar with different toppings and side salads, letting guests mix and match flavors. Wrapping leftovers in pretty parchment paper makes an excellent gift for friends or family who need a pick-me-up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers tightly covered with plastic wrap or foil to preserve moisture and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this quiche later, freezing is a great option. Cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, or place in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the crust soggy and the texture less pleasant.
FAQs
Can I use pre-made pie crust for this quiche?
Absolutely! Using a store-bought pie crust saves time and works perfectly, just make sure it’s the deep dish kind to hold all the delicious fillings.
Is it necessary to preheat the baking sheet?
While not mandatory, preheating the baking sheet helps the quiche cook more evenly and prevents a soggy bottom crust by providing direct heat.
Can I substitute milk and cream with a dairy-free alternative?
You can try unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream, but keep in mind the flavor and texture might change slightly. It’s best to experiment to find a combo you love.
How can I make the quiche less rich?
Reducing the heavy cream or swapping it for all milk can lighten the custard, and using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon can also make it less heavy.
Does this recipe freeze well after baking?
Yes! It freezes beautifully after baking. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping to maintain freshness and texture upon reheating.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about a Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe that feels both indulgent and comforting at the same time. Whether you’re making it for a special brunch, a casual lunch, or a dinner that feels like a warm hug, it’s bound to become a beloved favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and share how you make it your own!
Print
Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche is a savory and satisfying dish featuring a flaky pie crust filled with sharp cheddar cheese, tangy diced pimentos, and crispy bacon. Combined with a creamy egg custard, this quiche bakes to golden perfection and makes a perfect dish for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
Ingredients
Pie Crust and Cheese Filling
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, well drained
- 3/4 to 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon (or 1 (2.8-ounce) bag precooked real bacon pieces)
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 the Oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack to heat along with the oven. This hot baking sheet helps ensure a crisp and evenly cooked crust.
- Assemble the Filling. 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, then top with the crumbled cooked bacon to distribute flavor throughout the quiche.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This custard mixture will bind the ingredients and create a creamy texture.
- Fill the Pie Crust. Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered cheese, pimentos, and bacon in the pie crust. Be cautious not to overfill the crust to prevent spillage during baking.
- Bake the Quiche. Place the prepared quiche on the preheated rimmed baking sheet and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the custard is fully set and the top is lightly golden. The hot baking sheet ensures the bottom crust cooks thoroughly and crisps up nicely.
- Cool and Serve. Allow the quiche to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the diced pimentos are well drained to avoid excess moisture that can make the crust soggy.
- You can substitute precooked bacon pieces for convenience.
- Letting the quiche rest after baking allows the custard to finish setting, making clean slices easier.
- Use a deep dish pie crust to accommodate the filling and custard mixture comfortably.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
