0 Shares

This Deep-Dish Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is a rich and satisfying dish perfect for a holiday gathering, Sunday supper, or brunch with friends. Inspired by a road trip to Vermont, this quiche is a mile-high marvel, with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, scallions, and plenty of fresh parsley all nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. The luxurious filling of eggs and cream makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and pair it with a crisp salad or fruit for a complete meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
10 to 13 tablespoons ice water
1 cup (2 sticks) cold, unsalted butter, cubed
Extra flour for rolling the dough

For the Filling:

8 ounces bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
6 large eggs
3 cups heavy cream
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups chopped parsley
6 ounces (2 cups) grated sharp cheddar cheese
1 bunch scallions, finely sliced (including some of the green part)

Directions

Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and toss to coat. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes.
Roll the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 14-15 inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch springform pan, pressing it gently into the pan and up the sides. Trim excess dough and crimp the edges. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Blind Bake the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the dough with foil and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 30 minutes, then check every 10 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Remove the weights and foil and allow the crust to cool slightly.
Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until lightly browned. Drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, salt, pepper, and parsley. Stir in the bacon, cheese, and scallions.
Assemble the Quiche:
Spread 1 cup of cheese on the bottom of the baked crust. Add the bacon and scallions, then pour the egg mixture over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
Bake the Quiche:
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45 minutes. Check to see if the top is browned and cover loosely with foil if necessary. Continue baking for another 25-30 minutes, until the quiche is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the quiche to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This ensures that the quiche holds its shape and is easy to cut. Serve at room temperature or warm.

Nutrients (per serving)

(Approximate values for 1/8 of the quiche)

Calories: 867 kcal
Total Fat: 70g
- Saturated Fat: 40g
Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 308mg
Sodium: 1115mg
Calcium: 414mg
Iron: 3mg

The Appeal of a Deep-Dish Quiche

Quiche, in its many variations, is a classic dish that has been a staple of brunch menus for years. What sets this Deep-Dish Bacon and Cheddar Quiche apart is its hearty, layered structure, which elevates the traditional quiche to something more substantial. The deep-dish style allows for a thick, fluffy filling that holds up beautifully when sliced. The rich, creamy texture of the egg and cream filling contrasts perfectly with the crispy bacon and sharp cheese, while the flakey crust provides the ideal base for all the ingredients.

This quiche can easily be customized to suit personal preferences by adding additional ingredients such as vegetables or different types of cheese, but the combination of bacon and cheddar is undeniably one of the most beloved flavor pairings. The addition of fresh scallions and parsley helps balance the richness of the filling, giving the quiche a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish.

Creating the Perfect Quiche Crust

The crust of any quiche is essential to its overall success, and in this recipe, a homemade, buttery crust sets the stage for the entire dish. The dough is simple to make, using basic pantry staples like flour, salt, butter, and ice water. By cutting the butter into the flour, you create a flaky texture that will crisp up beautifully when baked.

Blind baking the crust before adding the filling is a crucial step. This ensures that the crust does not become soggy from the rich egg and cream filling. By using pie weights or dried beans during the blind-baking process, the dough holds its shape and bakes evenly. After baking, the crust will be golden and crisp, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy, savory filling. This technique ensures that each bite has the ideal balance of flaky, buttery crust and smooth, flavorful filling.

The Rich Filling: Eggs, Cream, and Cheese

The filling for this Deep-Dish Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is what truly makes the dish stand out. A combination of eggs and heavy cream forms the base of the filling, creating a smooth, custard-like consistency that is rich and satisfying. The eggs provide structure to the quiche, while the cream adds richness and depth of flavor. Together, they create a filling that is creamy and silky, yet firm enough to hold its shape when sliced.

Sharp cheddar cheese is the perfect choice for this quiche, adding a bold, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the eggs and cream. The cheese also melts beautifully, helping to bind the filling together while adding a savory depth to the dish. For added flavor, the quiche also includes crispy bacon, which adds a smoky, salty component that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the filling. The bacon not only enhances the taste but also adds texture and crunch, making each bite a satisfying experience.

Adding Freshness with Scallions and Parsley

While the bacon and cheese provide plenty of savory flavor, the addition of fresh scallions and parsley brightens up the dish and adds a layer of freshness. Scallions, or green onions, offer a mild, slightly pungent flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the quiche. The green parts of the scallions add a pop of color, creating a visually appealing contrast against the golden filling.

Parsley, with its fresh, herby flavor, complements the other ingredients and provides a burst of freshness. The combination of scallions and parsley not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a vibrant green color that makes the quiche visually appealing. These ingredients help to balance the richness of the cheese and bacon, making each bite a perfect combination of savory, creamy, and fresh flavors.

Bacon: The Heart of the Flavor

Bacon is the standout ingredient in this Deep-Dish Bacon and Cheddar Quiche, contributing both flavor and texture. The bacon is cooked until crispy, which adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft, creamy filling. The smoky, salty flavor of the bacon infuses the quiche, elevating the overall taste. It’s important to cook the bacon before adding it to the quiche to ensure it is fully crisp and adds the perfect amount of crunch to each bite.

While the quiche can be made without bacon, the inclusion of this savory ingredient makes the dish feel more indulgent and adds a layer of umami that enhances the overall flavor profile. Bacon is a beloved addition to many breakfast and brunch dishes, and in this quiche, it truly shines.

A Perfect Dish for Any Occasion

The beauty of this Deep-Dish Bacon and Cheddar Quiche lies in its versatility. It is a great dish for any occasion, whether you are hosting a holiday gathering, a casual brunch, or a special supper. The rich, satisfying nature of the quiche makes it perfect for a main course, while its layers of flavor make it an impressive dish to serve to guests.

Because quiche is delicious both warm and at room temperature, this dish is ideal for making ahead of time. Whether you’re prepping for a busy morning or want to have something ready for a gathering later in the day, this quiche can be baked and served at your convenience. Its hearty, filling nature makes it a perfect option for brunch, and it pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or a side of fresh fruit.

Customization Options: Personalizing Your Quiche

One of the best things about this quiche is its adaptability. While bacon and cheddar cheese are the stars of this recipe, the filling can easily be customized to suit your tastes. You can swap out the bacon for sausage or ham if you prefer a different protein, or you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a more veggie-forward quiche.

For those who prefer a different cheese, feta or Gruyère would be excellent alternatives to cheddar, each bringing its own distinct flavor to the quiche. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor to your liking. Whether you like your quiche to be more indulgent or lighter and fresher, the options for customization are endless.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

While this Deep-Dish Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is a stand-alone dish, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the quiche, while fresh fruit, like berries or melon, provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors. For a more hearty meal, consider serving the quiche with roasted vegetables or a potato salad.

This quiche also pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay, which complements the richness of the cheese and bacon. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, iced tea or a refreshing cucumber water can be a perfect accompaniment.

Conclusion: A Rich and Satisfying Meal

Deep-Dish Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is a luxurious and flavorful dish that brings together rich, creamy eggs, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh herbs in a buttery, flaky crust. This hearty quiche is perfect for any occasion, from casual brunches to more formal holiday gatherings, and it’s guaranteed to impress guests with its mile-high layers and indulgent flavors.

Whether served warm or at room temperature, this quiche is a satisfying meal that can stand alone or be paired with light sides for a complete meal. Its versatility allows for endless variations, making it easy to adjust to your preferences and dietary needs. So, the next time you’re looking for a show-stopping dish to serve, this Deep-Dish Bacon and Cheddar Quiche is sure to become a favorite.