Introduction
Welcome to the savory world of Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche! If you’re a fan of rich and flavorful quiches, this recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Imagine a buttery pie crust filled with a creamy mixture of eggs, cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy pimento peppers. This quiche is a delightful combination of Southern comfort and classic French cuisine, making it a perfect dish for brunch, lunch, or a cozy dinner.
Originating from the American South, this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche brings together the best of both worlds – the hearty goodness of bacon and the zesty kick of pimento peppers. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and promises a satisfying meal that will have your family and friends coming back for more.
As you embark on this culinary adventure, get ready to experience a harmonious blend of flavors that will elevate your brunch spread or dinner table. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the delicious world of Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the standout features of this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or planning a simple weeknight dinner, this quiche is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed any time of day. The creamy texture of the cheese filling combined with the smoky bacon creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
Moreover, this recipe offers a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients in your fridge. You can easily customize the quiche by incorporating your favorite cheeses, herbs, or vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Additionally, the quiche can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a convenient option for meal prep or picnics.
For those watching their carb intake, this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche can be made crustless for a lighter version that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Simply skip the pie crust and bake the filling in a greased dish for a delicious low-carb alternative.
With its combination of protein-packed eggs, savory bacon, and creamy cheese, this quiche is not only a flavorful delight but also a satisfying and nourishing meal that will keep you fueled throughout the day.
Ingredients
For the crust:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 4-6 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
– 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– ½ cup pimento peppers, chopped
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the crust by combining the flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and place it in a pie dish. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and pimento peppers. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
5. Bake the quiche for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
6. Serve the Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche warm and enjoy the delightful flavors with your loved ones!
Expert Tips for Success
– Ensure the butter for the crust is cold to achieve a flaky texture.
– For extra flavor, you can sauté the pimento peppers before adding them to the filling.
– To prevent a soggy bottom crust, blind bake the pie crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
– Let the quiche rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch up this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche recipe, here are some creative variations to try:
– Substitute the bacon with cooked sausage or ham for a different flavor profile.
– Mix in some spinach or mushrooms for added freshness and nutrients.
– Use different cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or pepper jack to customize the quiche to your liking.
– For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add in more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
To complement the rich flavors of the Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche, consider serving it with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. You can also pair the quiche with a side of roasted vegetables or a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a comforting meal. For beverages, a glass of chilled white wine or a fruity iced tea would make a delightful accompaniment to this savory dish.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the quiche up to a day in advance. Simply cover it and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Allow the quiche to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust instead?
A: Yes, you can save time by using a pre-made pie crust. Just follow the package instructions for blind baking before adding the filling.
Final Thoughts
As you savor each bite of this delectable Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche, you’ll appreciate the balance of flavors and textures that make this dish a true delight for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it for a leisurely weekend brunch or a quick weekday dinner, this quiche is a versatile and flavorful addition to your recipe repertoire.
We hope this recipe inspires you to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with different ingredients to make this quiche your own. Share your culinary creations with us and let us know how you personalized this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Happy cooking!
Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche
A delightful quiche featuring a buttery pie crust filled with a creamy mixture of eggs, cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy pimento peppers. This Southern-inspired dish combines the richness of bacon with the zesty kick of pimento peppers, creating a versatile and flavorful meal perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup pimento peppers, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the crust by combining the flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and place it in a pie dish. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and pimento peppers. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake the quiche for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve the Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche warm and enjoy the delightful flavors with your loved ones!
Nutrition Facts
