A classic basic quiche is one of those dishes that never fails to impress, whether you're making a cozy weekend brunch or a light yet satisfying dinner. With its buttery, flaky crust and creamy, custardy filling, this homemade quiche is as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, the beauty of quiche recipes easy enough for beginners is that you can customize them with your favorite mix-ins—cheese, veggies, meats, or herbs—without any stress.
Classic Basic Quiche
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 45 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Main Course
Cuisine French
For the Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 3 to 4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon optional
- 1/2 cup sautéed spinach or mushrooms optional
Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Roll and Blind Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Press it into the pan, trimming excess dough. Prick the bottom with a fork, line with parchment paper, and fill with baking weights. Bake for 15 minutes, remove the weights, and bake for another 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in shredded cheese and any additional fillings like bacon or vegetables.
Assemble and Bake
Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set. Let the quiche cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm or at room temperature with a simple side salad for a perfect meal.
Perfect Pairings
A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the quiche perfectly. For a heartier meal, serve it with roasted potatoes or a side of fresh fruit. And of course, a chilled glass of white wine or a mimosa makes for an ideal brunch pairing!
FAQs
1. What’s the best type of cheese for quiche?
Gruyère is classic, but you can also use cheddar, Swiss, or even goat cheese for a different flavor.
2. Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes! This homemade quiche can be baked in advance and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Simply reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven before serving.
3. Should I use a store-bought or homemade crust?
Either works! A homemade crust offers a flakier texture, but a store-bought one is a great shortcut if you’re short on time.
4. What’s the secret to a perfect custard filling?
Using a mix of whole milk and heavy cream ensures a smooth, rich texture. Also, avoid overbaking—take it out when the center is just slightly wobbly.
