The aroma of a freshly baked ham and cheese quiche wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly morning. Picture this: a golden crust cradling creamy eggs mingled with chunks of savory ham and gooey melted cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food that makes every bite feel like an embrace from your favorite grandparent—if only they had a culinary degree.
I fondly remember my first attempt at making this delightful dish. I invited friends over for brunch, eager to impress them with my culinary prowess. Spoiler alert: They were impressed, but only because I had enough mimosas to drown any culinary mishaps!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This effortless ham and cheese quiche is perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings
- Its rich flavor profile combines buttery crust with savory fillings
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table
- Make it ahead for easy meal prep or customize the fillings as you like!
I once served this quiche at a family gathering, and my cousin’s eyes lit up as she took her first bite. She swore I must have hidden magic in it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pie Crust: A pre-made crust saves time; look for one that’s flaky and tender for best results.
- Eggs: Use large eggs for the best texture; they bind everything together beautifully.
- Heavy Cream: Opt for heavy cream to achieve a rich, velvety filling that elevates the dish.
- Diced Ham: Use quality cooked ham; it’s the star of the show, adding that savory punch.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar works wonderfully; mix it up with Gruyère or Swiss for extra flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the wonderful flavors in your quiche.
- Fresh Herbs (optional): Add chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and fresh taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently place your pie crust into a pie dish; crimp the edges if you’re feeling fancy.
Mix Your Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and bubbly—like clouds floating on a sunny day.
Add Ham and Cheese: Stir in diced ham along with shredded cheese until evenly distributed throughout your egg mixture. Try not to eat all the cheese before it makes it into the dish!
Season It Up!: Sprinkle salt and pepper generously into your mixture; don’t be shy! Taste testing is totally allowed here—just make sure you save some for the quiche!
Pour Into Crust: Carefully pour your egg filling into the prepared pie crust until it’s nearly full. If you’ve got leftover filling (if you’re lucky), save it for mini muffin cups later!
Bake It Up!: Place your quiche in the oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes or until it’s puffed up and golden brown on top. The smell alone will drive you wild with anticipation—try not to drool too much!
Once cooled slightly, slice up your masterpiece, serve warm or at room temperature—and prepare yourself for compliments galore!
This ham and cheese quiche is not just an ordinary dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that can brighten up any meal or gathering. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and whip up something fabulous!
You Must Know
- Ham and cheese quiche is a versatile dish, perfect for breakfast or brunch
- The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with a flaky crust, making each bite a delightful experience
- Don’t forget to use fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by pre-baking your crust to ensure it stays crisp. While it’s baking, whisk together eggs, cream, and your chosen fillings for a smooth mixture that blends perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ham for bacon or veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Experimenting with different cheeses can elevate the flavor profile; try Gruyère or cheddar for a twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, maintaining that crispy crust.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your ham and cheese quiche stand out, always use room temperature eggs for fluffiness
- Keep an eye on cooking time; over-baking can lead to a rubbery texture
- Let it cool before slicing for cleaner cuts and a neater presentation
Creating my first ham and cheese quiche was an adventure! After accidentally using expired eggs, I learned fresh ingredients are essential for success. Now, it’s a family favorite!
FAQ
Can I freeze ham and cheese quiche?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking or after cooling completely.
What can I substitute for the cream?
Milk or half-and-half works well if you’re looking for lighter options.
How do I know when my quiche is done?
It should be set in the center but slightly jiggly; carryover cooking will finish it off.

Irresistible Ham and Cheese Quiche Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in a savory ham and cheese quiche, featuring a flaky crust and creamy filling—perfect for brunch or any meal. Each slice is a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust in a pie dish and crimp the edges.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream until smooth.
- Stir in diced ham and shredded cheese until evenly mixed.
- Season with salt and pepper, then pour the mixture into the prepared crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (107g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: - Substitute ham with bacon or sautéed vegetables for variations. - Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Swiss for unique flavors. - For a crispier crust, pre-bake it for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.