Description
Ina Garten’s crustless quiche blends creamy eggs, sharp cheeses, and savory herbs into a light, elegant breakfast classic. Home cooks can master this simple yet sophisticated dish with professional-level technique and minimal preparation time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 4 oz (113 g) grated or crumbled cheese (Cheddar, goat cheese, Gruyere)
- 2 cups (480 ml) half-and-half
- ¾ cup (180 ml) chopped crisp bacon, diced ham or salami
- 2 to 3 cups (480–720 ml) prepared vegetables (leeks, broccoli, onions, mushrooms, spinach)
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 to 4 tbsps (15–60 ml) minced herbs (parsley, chives, tarragon)
- ½ tsp (2.5 ml) kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Freshly grated nutmeg
- Pinch cayenne or paprika
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) all-purpose flour (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Preparation: Position the oven rack at 350°F (175°C), setting the stage for a perfectly golden quiche.
- Pan Preparation: Lavishly coat the pie pan with softened butter, then dust with grated Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful foundation that prevents sticking and adds a delicate crunch.
- Custard Creation: Whisk half-and-half, whole eggs, and additional egg yolks into a silky smooth mixture, seasoning with kosher salt, black pepper, and a whisper of nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile.
- Layer Assembly: Strategically distribute half of the chosen vegetables and cheese across the prepared pan, ensuring an even, colorful base that promises maximum taste in every bite.
- Protein Enhancement: Crown the vegetable layer with chopped bacon, diced ham, or salami, integrating rich, savory proteins that complement the existing ingredients.
- Custard Infusion: Delicately pour the prepared custard over the layered ingredients, allowing it to naturally settle and fill the intricate spaces between vegetables and proteins.
- Baking Transformation: Slide the quiche into the preheated oven, baking for 40 to 50 minutes until the center sets firmly and the top achieves a golden-brown perfection.
- Resting and Serving: Carefully remove from the oven and let the quiche rest for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the custard to stabilize and flavors to harmonize before presenting this culinary masterpiece.
Notes
- Butter Up the Pan: Generously coat the pie dish with softened butter and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful, non-stick base that adds extra richness.
- Egg Wisdom: Use whole eggs and extra yolks to create a luxuriously creamy custard base, balancing texture and depth with carefully chosen seasonings.
- Layer Like a Pro: Distribute vegetables and cheese evenly in two layers to ensure maximum flavor distribution and a visually appealing cross-section.
- Rest and Settle: Allow the quiche to rest 10-15 minutes after baking, letting the custard set and flavors meld for a perfect slice every time.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg