Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quiche Lorraine combines luxurious texture with hearty ingredients, making it both satisfying and sophisticated. It’s easy to make ahead, reheats beautifully, and works for any occasion — from casual family breakfasts to elegant brunch gatherings. Plus, you can serve it warm or at room temperature, making it as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- Bacon, chopped
- Eggs
- Heavy cream
- Milk
- Gruyère or Swiss cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper
- Ground nutmeg (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the crust:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish or tart pan. Trim and crimp the edges as desired.
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10–12 minutes, then remove weights and bake an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook the bacon:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- Make the filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, milk, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).
- Assemble the quiche:
- Sprinkle the cooked bacon and shredded cheese evenly over the pre-baked crust.
- Pour the egg mixture over the top.
- Bake the quiche:
- Place in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 6–8 people. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, and baking takes 40 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes for cooling. The total time is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Variations
- Vegetarian Quiche: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or leeks.
- Cheese Swap: Use cheddar, fontina, or Swiss cheese instead of Gruyère.
- Mini Quiches: Make smaller versions using muffin tins for easy, portable servings.
- Crustless Quiche: Skip the crust for a gluten-free, lower-carb option.
- Deluxe Lorraine: Add caramelized onions for a touch of sweetness that complements the bacon.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover quiche covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave for about 1 minute. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
1. What is Quiche Lorraine traditionally made with?
Classic Quiche Lorraine contains bacon, eggs, cream, and cheese in a buttery pastry crust.
2. Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, though the texture will be slightly lighter and less rich. A mix of milk and cream gives the best balance.
3. Do I need to pre-bake the crust?
Yes, blind baking prevents the crust from becoming soggy when the filling is added.
4. What cheese works best for Quiche Lorraine?
Gruyère is traditional, but Swiss or cheddar cheese also work well.
5. Can I make Quiche Lorraine ahead of time?
Absolutely. It reheats well and can be served warm or at room temperature.
6. How do I know when my quiche is done?
The center should be mostly set but slightly wobbly. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
7. Can I freeze Quiche Lorraine?
Yes, bake it fully, cool, and freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
8. Why is my quiche watery?
Overbaking or using too much milk can cause the custard to separate. Follow the ratios carefully.
9. Can I add vegetables to Quiche Lorraine?
Yes, but make sure to cook and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
10. What should I serve with Quiche Lorraine?
A fresh green salad, roasted potatoes, or fresh fruit make perfect accompaniments.
Conclusion
Quiche Lorraine is the perfect blend of creamy custard, smoky bacon, and buttery crust — a true classic that never goes out of style. It’s simple yet elegant, making it suitable for everything from breakfast gatherings to special occasions. Once you master this timeless recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen for years to come.
PrintQuiche Lorraine
A classic French dish made with a flaky pastry crust, creamy egg custard, and melted Gruyère cheese. Quiche Lorraine is rich, savory, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup Gruyère or Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out pie crust and fit into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp edges. Line with parchment and pie weights, bake 10–12 minutes, remove weights, and bake another 5 minutes until lightly golden. Cool slightly.
- Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- Make the filling: In a bowl, whisk eggs, cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Assemble the quiche: Sprinkle and cheese evenly over the pre-baked crust. Pour egg mixture on top.
- Bake the quiche: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Blind bake the crust to prevent a soggy bottom.
- Use a combination of milk and cream for the perfect custard texture.
- Gruyère gives authentic flavor, but Swiss or cheddar can be substituted.
- Allow the quiche to rest before slicing so the filling sets properly.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of quiche)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 195mg