Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This Paula Deen-inspired quiche recipe is a delightful blend of Southern charm and classic quiche goodness. Perfect for a weekend brunch, a weeknight dinner, or even a potluck contribution, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. It's one of those healthy meals that feels incredibly indulgent, making it a true winner in the easy recipes category. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields a 9-inch quiche.
- Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup ice water
- Filling:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese (or Swiss)
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked sausage (optional, for a heartier quiche)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in butter: Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water: Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Chill: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll and bake: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch quiche pan. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork. Blind bake for 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) – this prevents a soggy bottom.
Assembling and Baking the Quiche:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Whisk eggs and cream: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and milk until well combined.
- Stir in cheese and other ingredients: Add the cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, bacon, sausage (if using), green onions, pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir gently to combine.
- Pour into crust: Pour the egg mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the quiche is set and golden brown. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips for Quiche Perfection:
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality cheeses.
- Don't overbake the quiche; it should be set but not dry.
- You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Quiche: Omit the bacon and sausage and add your favorite vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
- Spicy Quiche: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the egg mixture.
- Herb Quiche: Add a tablespoon or two of fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or chives, to the egg mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Consider using a nutritional calculator for a precise analysis based on your ingredient choices. Generally, expect a moderately high calorie and fat content due to the cheese and cream, but the protein and satiety make it a satisfying and not overly unhealthy meal option.
This Paula Deen-inspired quiche recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy filling, flavorful cheese, and crispy crust will surely leave you wanting more. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and share the deliciousness with your loved ones! It truly represents the best recipes for those who appreciate comforting, flavorful food, made with simple, accessible ingredients.