Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ham and Cheese Quiche is a savory, satisfying dish with a buttery crust, creamy egg filling, and a delicious combination of smoky ham and melted cheese. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this classic quiche is both elegant and easy to prepare. Serve it warm or chilled—it’s a versatile recipe that’s great for entertaining or meal prepping.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
eggs
whole milk or half-and-half
diced cooked ham
shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère work well)
salt
black pepper
onion or green onions (optional)
nutmeg (optional for extra depth)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Prick the bottom with a fork.

Par-bake the crust for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.

Sprinkle the diced ham evenly over the bottom of the crust, followed by the shredded cheese and onions if using.

Pour the egg mixture over the filling, ensuring it spreads evenly.

Bake the quiche for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.

Let cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 slices.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
Use bacon or sausage instead of ham for a different flavor profile.
Try different cheeses like feta, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
Make it crustless for a low-carb alternative.
Use a deep-dish pan for a thicker, more substantial quiche.

storage/reheating

Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, bake at 325°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual slices for 30–45 seconds.
Freeze whole or sliced quiche for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Best served warm, but can also be enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Can I make the quiche ahead of time?

Yes, bake it a day ahead and reheat before serving or serve chilled.

What’s the best cheese for quiche?

Cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère melt well and provide great flavor.

Can I use a frozen pie crust?

Yes, just follow package instructions for pre-baking before adding the filling.

Why is my quiche watery?

Overbaking or using too much milk can cause excess moisture—measure carefully and bake just until set.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, though texture may vary slightly.

Can I use egg whites only?

Yes, but the texture will be lighter—use 2 egg whites per whole egg.

Is it okay to skip the crust?

Yes, a crustless version works well and is great for low-carb diets.

How do I know when the quiche is done?

The center should be just set with a slight jiggle and a knife should come out clean when inserted.

Can I add herbs?

Fresh thyme, parsley, or chives can enhance the flavor beautifully.

Do I have to par-bake the crust?

Yes, it helps prevent a soggy bottom and ensures even cooking.

Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Quiche is a flavorful, fuss-free dish that’s ideal for any time of day. With its rich filling, customizable ingredients, and make-ahead convenience, it’s a go-to recipe for busy mornings, elegant brunches, or casual dinners. Simple yet satisfying, this quiche is sure to become a household favorite.