If you are searching for a comforting, savory dish that combines smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors all in one bite, look no further than this incredible Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe. This quiche bakes up golden and fluffy with a luscious filling of sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and sweet pimentos, all enveloped in a flaky pie crust. It’s a perfect dish to bring to brunch, share with family over a cozy weekend breakfast, or impress friends at your next gathering. Every forkful offers a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that feels both familiar and delightfully indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is key to nailing this quiche, but don’t worry—it’s all simple, pantry-friendly items that come together to create a fantastic flavor profile. Each component adds its own special touch, whether it’s the savory richness of bacon or the bright pop of pimentos.
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked: The sturdy, buttery base that holds all those delicious fillings together perfectly.
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides the gooey, tangy creaminess with a bold flavor that defines the dish.
- 3/4 to 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon (or 1 (2.8-ounce) bag precooked real bacon pieces): Adds irresistible smokiness and crisp texture.
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, well drained: These sweet, mild peppers brighten the dish and add beautiful color.
- 4 large eggs: The essential binding agent that makes the quiche light yet custardy.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the custard smooth and creamy without weighing it down.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and helps achieve that velvety quiche texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle hint of spice that balances the richness perfectly.
How to Make Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack to heat up while the oven warms. This hot baking sheet will help the quiche crust bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden bottom.
Step 2: Layer the Cheese, Pimentos, and Bacon
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly into the bottom of your unbaked pie crust. Next, scatter the well-drained diced pimentos over the cheese. Finally, top with the crumbled cooked bacon, distributing it evenly so every slice gets a bit of that crispy, smoky goodness.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Making sure the mixture is smooth and well combined ensures the quiche will set with a creamy, custard-like texture that’s simply irresistible.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Quiche
Carefully pour the egg mixture into the pie crust, making sure not to overfill. Place the quiche on the preheated baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. This careful baking process results in that perfect balance of fluffy, rich filling and crisp crust.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the quiche to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. Serving it warm brings out all the wonderful flavors in their prime, but it can be enjoyed at room temperature as well for a relaxed meal or brunch spread.
How to Serve Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or parsley add a vibrant splash of green and a mild oniony note that brightens the dish visually and in flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate each bite with extra creaminess or a kick of heat.
Side Dishes
Pair this quiche with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables or fresh fruit salad also offer refreshing contrasts. For a heartier meal, some warm crusty bread or garlic roasted potatoes are a winning choice.
Creative Ways to Present
Your Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe can double as a stunning centerpiece by cutting it into wedges and arranging it on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh herbs and colorful veggies. Alternatively, serve small mini quiches or tartlets for a festive party spread that invites guests to nibble and mingle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover quiche is a delight to have on hand! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and the texture intact. It makes an excellent quick breakfast or lunch when time is tight.
Freezing
You can freeze the whole quiche or individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Frozen quiche keeps its quality for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, pop slices in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can make the crust soggy and the filling less creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this quiche?
Absolutely! A good quality store-bought pie crust works perfectly and saves time while still delivering a delicious base for the Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe.
Is it necessary to preheat the baking sheet?
Yes, preheating the baking sheet helps the crust bake evenly and become golden and crisp on the bottom. It really makes a difference in texture.
Can I substitute the bacon with another type of meat?
Definitely! You can swap bacon for cooked sausage, ham, or even turkey bacon if you prefer. Each swap will bring its own unique flavor to the quiche.
Can this quiche be made dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese substitutes, plant-based milk like oat or almond milk, and a dairy-free pie crust. The texture and flavor will be a bit different but still enjoyable.
What’s the best way to cut the quiche without it falling apart?
After cooling the quiche for about 15 minutes, use a sharp, serrated knife and cut gently with a rocking motion. This helps keep the slices intact with a neat presentation.
Final Thoughts
You really cannot go wrong with the Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe if you want a warm, comforting dish packed with bold, satisfying flavors. It’s simple to make yet feels special every time you serve it, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself on a leisurely morning. Give this recipe a try, and I promise it will become one of your treasured go-to quiches in no time!
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, creamy dish featuring a flaky deep dish pie crust filled with sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy pimentos. Perfect for brunch or a comforting dinner, it combines rich eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Crust and Filling
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 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). Place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack to preheat alongside the oven—this will help cook the quiche evenly from the bottom.
- Prepare Crust Base: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly into the bottom of the unbaked deep dish pie crust. Then, distribute the well-drained diced pimentos over the cheese, followed by an even layer of the crumbled cooked bacon on top.
- Mix Egg Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the large eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and smooth. Carefully pour this egg mixture into the pie crust over the layered ingredients, making sure not to overfill to avoid spillage during baking.
- Bake the Quiche: Transfer the quiche onto the preheated rimmed baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the quiche is set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean when done.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes to set further before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Using a preheated baking sheet ensures a crisp crust bottom.
- Do not overfill the crust to prevent spilling while baking.
- The quiche can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated.
- For a crustless option, omit the pie crust and grease the baking dish well.
