If you’re searching for the ultimate brunch, lunch, or dinner dish, look no further than Quiche Lorraine. This classic French savory pie combines a buttery, flaky crust with a rich custard filled with smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and just the right touch of seasoning. Perfect for breakfast gatherings, family dinners, or elegant brunch spreads, Quiche Lorraine is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your guests while being surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients for Quiche Lorraine
To make an authentic Quiche Lorraine, gather the following ingredients:
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1 pre-made or homemade pie crust (9-inch)
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6 large eggs
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1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
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1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
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6–8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional but traditional)
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1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Kitchen Tools Needed
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9-inch pie dish or tart pan
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Frying pan (for bacon and onions)
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Knife and cutting board
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Oven
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your pie crust into the 9-inch pie dish, prick the bottom lightly with a fork to prevent bubbling, and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Onion
In a frying pan over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove and drain on a paper towel. If using onions, sauté them in the bacon fat until translucent.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Ensure the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Quiche
Sprinkle the cooked bacon and sautéed onions (if using) evenly over the pie crust. Add the grated cheese on top. Carefully pour the egg and cream mixture over the filling.
Step 5: Bake
Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the Quiche Lorraine to cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Perfect Quiche Lorraine
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Blind Bake the Crust – For extra crispiness, bake the pie crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
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Use High-Quality Ingredients – Authentic Gruyère cheese and fresh eggs make a noticeable difference.
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Adjust the Cream – Use half-and-half to lighten the dish or heavy cream for a richer, more decadent quiche.
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Add Vegetables Carefully – Spinach, mushrooms, or leeks can be added, but ensure they’re cooked and drained to avoid a soggy crust.
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Make Ahead – Quiche can be made a day in advance and reheated gently in the oven.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per slice)
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Calories: 350–400
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Protein: 15 g
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Fat: 28 g
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Carbohydrates: 15 g
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Fiber: 1 g
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Sodium: 500 mg
Values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion size.
Why You’ll Love This Quiche Lorraine
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Versatile – Perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or brunch gatherings.
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Crowd-Pleasing – Smoky bacon and creamy custard appeal to adults and kids alike.
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Elegant Presentation – Looks beautiful on a brunch table or dinner spread.
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Easy to Customize – Add vegetables, herbs, or different cheeses to suit your taste.
Conclusion
Mastering Quiche Lorraine is a culinary achievement that elevates your brunch or dinner menu. With a flaky crust, creamy custard, and the irresistible combination of cheese and bacon, this French classic is both comforting and sophisticated. Try making it for your next gathering or Sunday brunch – your family and friends will be delighted, and you’ll have a go-to recipe for any occasion.