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If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that combines the smoky goodness of bacon with the creamy, tangy charm of pimento cheese nestled inside a flaky crust, then this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Rich, savory, and packed with bold flavors, this quiche is both comforting and impressively elegant—a perfect go-to for brunch, lunch, or even a cozy dinner with friends. Each bite is a symphony of creamy cheddar, tender eggs, and just the right hint of sweetness from the pimentos, all wrapped together in a golden, buttery crust that holds everything beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients often make the biggest impact in a recipe like this. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding creaminess, texture, or that crave-worthy pop of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked: Use a deep dish crust to hold all the delicious fillings and create a perfect flaky base for the quiche.
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor and gooey texture when melted.
- 3/4 to 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon: Whether homemade or precooked, bacon brings smoky crunch to every bite.
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, well drained: These add a sweet, tangy contrast and vibrant color to brighten the dish.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs are the binding agent that sets the quiche’s creamy custard filling.
- 1 cup whole milk: Whole milk enriches the custard, keeping it smooth and luscious.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream ups the decadence and silky texture of the filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just enough salt to bring out all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of warmth and spice to balance the richness.
How to Make Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and place a large rimmed baking sheet in the center rack so it heats up along with the oven. This simple trick ensures your quiche bakes evenly and the crust cooks to a perfect golden brown.
Step 2: Layer the Flavor Foundations
Once your crust is ready, sprinkle the thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly onto the bottom. The cheese creates a molten, flavorful barrier that keeps the crust from getting soggy while providing rich cheesy pockets. Next, add a generous layer of well-drained diced pimentos over the cheese to introduce a lovely touch of sweetness and a pop of color. Finally, scatter your crumbled cooked bacon over the top to bring that signature smoky crunch that makes this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 3: Whisk and Pour the Custard
In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. This custard mixture will set into a silky, tender filling once baked. Pour the mixture carefully into the crust, making sure not to spill over, and let this luscious custard surround the cheese, bacon, and pimentos.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place your filled pie crust on the preheated baking sheet, then slip it into the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the quiche is fully set—meaning the center isn’t jiggly when gently shaken—and the edges are golden and inviting. Once done, give it about 15 minutes to cool; this lets the quiche firm up slightly, making slicing easier and the flavors more pronounced.
How to Serve Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley add a bright, herbal note and lift the presentation. A thin sprinkle of smoked paprika on top can enhance the smoky bacon flavor and give your quiche a gorgeous finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your quiche with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness, or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. Fresh fruit or a tangy tomato salsa can also add a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the quiche into small bite-sized squares for an eye-catching appetizer platter. For brunch, serve each slice with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for a fun kick. Presentation is all about making this dish feel special and inviting, so don’t shy away from colorful plates and garnishes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This quiche keeps beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover slices wrapped snugly in foil and sealed in freezer bags for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to avoid sogginess and maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that satisfying flakiness and prevent the quiche from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using a store-bought unbaked deep dish pie crust is convenient and works perfectly well for the Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe. Just make sure to pick one that’s sturdy enough to hold the custard and fillings without getting soggy.
Is there a way to make this quiche gluten-free?
Yes, swap the traditional pie crust for a gluten-free version or consider using a crustless method by cooking and baking the filling in a well-greased dish. This keeps the quiche just as flavorful while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Can I substitute the bacon with another ingredient?
If you want to skip bacon, smoked ham or cooked sausage are great alternatives that maintain that savory punch. For a vegetarian option, try adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to keep the depth of flavor alive.
How do I know when the quiche is done baking?
The best sign is when the center no longer jiggles gently when you shake the pan. It should feel just set but still moist. The edges will brown slightly, indicating that the crust is perfectly cooked.
Can I prepare this quiche the night before serving?
Yes, you can assemble the quiche and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just bring it to room temperature before popping it into a preheated oven for baking, which helps the quiche cook evenly and develop that golden crust.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug with a little bit of Southern charm, this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe fits the bill in every way. It’s rich yet balanced, impressive yet simple, and guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation. I promise once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your brunch or dinner plans. So go on, give it a whirl, and make some delicious memories!
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Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A savory Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche featuring a flaky deep dish pie crust filled with sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy diced pimentos, all bound together with a creamy egg custard. This classic quiche makes a perfect brunch or light dinner dish, offering a delicious blend of rich flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked
Filling
- 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
- 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 the oven to 375°F and place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack of the oven to preheat along with the oven. This step ensures the quiche gets an even and well-cooked base.
- Prepare Crust and Layer Ingredients: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly into the bottom of the unbaked pie crust. Next, scatter the well-drained diced pimentos evenly over the cheese, and then add the crumbled cooked bacon on top. This layering builds up the savory flavors nicely.
- Mix Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and slightly frothy. This custard mixture will set the quiche’s filling.
- Assemble Quiche: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the bacon, pimentos, and cheese in the crust, being cautious not to overfill the crust to avoid spillage during baking.
- Bake: Place the quiche on the preheated baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the quiche to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- For convenience, use precooked bacon pieces to save time.
- Ensure the diced pimentos are well drained to prevent sogginess.
- Do not overfill the pie crust with the custard mixture to avoid spills.
- Allowing the quiche to rest helps it set properly for clean slices.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently for another meal.
