Three Cheese Quiche

Three Cheese Quiche is a delightful and versatile dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This quiche combines the rich flavors of Gruyere, Swiss, and cheddar cheeses with a creamy custard filling, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 pie crust, 9 inches (store-bought or homemade)

For the Filling:

• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Crust: If using a store-bought pie crust, follow the package instructions for pre-baking. If making a homemade crust, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish, then carefully transfer it to the dish.
3. Blind Bake the Crust: Line the pie crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for about 10 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and whole milk until well combined.
2. Season the Filling: Add the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to the egg mixture, whisking to incorporate.

Step 3: Assemble the Quiche

1. Layer the Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Gruyere, Swiss, and cheddar cheeses evenly over the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust.
2. Add the Custard: Pour the egg and cream mixture over the cheese, ensuring that the filling is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Bake the Quiche

1. Bake: Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
2. Cool: Remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Serve

1. Slice and Serve: Cut the quiche into wedges and serve warm. This quiche pairs well with a fresh green salad, fruit salad, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for Success

• Pie Crust: For the best results, use a high-quality pie crust. If making your own, ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling it out to prevent shrinking during baking.
• Cheese Selection: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste. Other great options include fontina, mozzarella, or goat cheese.
• Preventing a Soggy Bottom: Blind baking the crust helps to prevent a soggy bottom. Make sure to cool the crust slightly before adding the filling to maintain its crispness.
• Even Baking: To ensure even baking, place the quiche on the middle rack of the oven and avoid opening the oven door frequently.
• Custard Consistency: The ratio of eggs to cream and milk is crucial for a creamy, custard-like filling. Stick to the recommended proportions for the best texture.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the quiche a day in advance. Simply bake, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Vegetable Quiche: Add sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the cheese filling for a nutritious twist.
• Meat Lovers: Incorporate cooked bacon, ham, or sausage into the quiche for added flavor and protein.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chives, thyme, or parsley for a burst of freshness.

Three Cheese Quiche is a delicious and elegant dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. The combination of Gruyere, Swiss, and cheddar cheeses creates a rich and flavorful filling, while the creamy custard and flaky crust make every bite a delight. Whether you’re serving it for brunch with friends or enjoying a slice for dinner, this quiche is sure to impress. Try it with your favorite side dishes and savor the wonderful flavors of this classic recipe. Enjoy!