Smoked Ham, Bacon, and Goat Cheese Quiche: A Savory Delight

There’s something about a warm quiche that just feels like home. I remember my grandmother making quiche for every holiday brunch, the savory aroma filling the kitchen. Even now, the smell of baking eggs and cheese instantly transports me back to those cozy mornings, surrounded by family and laughter. This Smoked Ham, Bacon, and Goat Cheese Quiche aims to recreate that feeling – a comforting dish, packed with flavor and perfect for sharing (or enjoying all by yourself!).

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 1 pie
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• Quiche:

  • 4 eggs
  • 1 1⁄4 cups half-and-half (*)
  • 1 cup diced smoked ham (fully cooked)
  • 4 slices bacon, diced
  • 1⁄2 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 1⁄3 cup finely diced red bell pepper
  • 1⁄2 teaspoon McCormick Mediterranean Spiced Salt
  • 1 pinch ground nutmeg
  • 1⁄3 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon salted butter

• Garnish:

  • 1⁄3 cup finely diced Roma tomato
  • 1⁄4 cup torn fresh cilantro
  • 1⁄4 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 1 dash red pepper flakes

(*) Note: You can substitute a combination of milk & heavy whipping cream or similar depending on your taste, allergies, or fat content preferences.

Equipment Needed

• Pie plate or baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Skillet
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and a beautifully set quiche.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, McCormick Mediterranean Spiced Salt, ground nutmeg, and black pepper. Make sure the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. This aeration contributes to a lighter, more tender quiche.

3. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced red bell pepper and diced bacon until the bacon is midway to being crisp. Don’t fully crisp the bacon at this stage, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

4. Add the diced smoked ham and salted butter to the skillet. Continue to cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until the ham is warmed through. Be careful not to overcook the ham, as it can become dry. The butter adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.

5. Coat a pie plate or baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents the quiche from sticking and ensures easy removal after baking.

6. Pour the contents of the skillet into the prepared pie plate. Spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.

7. Sprinkle half of the crumbled goat cheese over the ham and bacon mixture. The goat cheese will melt slightly during baking, adding a creamy, tangy flavor.

8. Carefully pour the egg mixture over the ingredients in the pie plate. Distribute it evenly to ensure all the fillings are submerged.

9. Sprinkle the remaining crumbled goat cheese on top of the egg mixture. This will create a beautiful, golden-brown crust with pockets of melted cheese.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. The quiche is done when the filling is set and the top is lightly golden brown. You can gently jiggle the pie plate; the center should have a slight wobble but not be liquid.

11. Remove the quiche from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the quiche to set further and makes it easier to cut into clean slices.

12. To serve, slice the quiche and top each slice with the garnish toppings: finely diced Roma tomato, torn fresh cilantro, crumbled goat cheese, and a dash of red pepper flakes. Divide the garnish evenly among the servings.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Preventing a Soggy Crust: If you’re using a pre-made pie crust, consider blind baking it for a few minutes before adding the filling. This helps to create a barrier against the wet filling and prevents a soggy bottom.
• Even Cooking: To ensure the quiche cooks evenly, rotate the pie plate halfway through the baking time.
• Goat Cheese Variation: Experiment with different flavors of goat cheese, such as honey goat cheese or herb-infused goat cheese, to add a unique twist to the recipe.
• Make-Ahead Tip: The quiche can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Adjusting Seasonings: Taste the egg mixture before pouring it into the pie plate and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or other spices, depending on your preferences.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Smoked Ham, Bacon, and Goat Cheese Quiche warm, either as a main course or as part of a brunch spread. It pairs well with a fresh green salad, fruit salad, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Leftover quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices or warm the entire quiche in a low oven (around 300°F) until heated through. You can also freeze individual slices for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheating in the oven will help retain the texture better than microwaving.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	212.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	146 g	69%
Total Fat	16.2 g	24%
Saturated Fat	7.2 g	36%
Cholesterol	151.4 mg	50%
Sodium	329.3 mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	12.9 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	4.9 g	19%
Sugars	2.5 g	10%
Protein	8.5 g	17%

Variations & Substitutions

• Crustless Quiche: For a gluten-free option, omit the pie crust altogether and bake the quiche in a greased baking dish.
• Vegetarian Quiche: Substitute the ham and bacon with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or other vegetables of your choice.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, cheddar, or feta, in place of or in addition to the goat cheese.
• Seasonal Variations: Adapt the recipe to the seasons by using seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus in the spring or butternut squash in the fall.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of milk instead of half-and-half?
A: Yes, you can substitute milk, cream, or a combination of the two depending on your preference and dietary needs. Keep in mind that the fat content will affect the richness and texture of the quiche.

Q: How do I know when the quiche is done?
A: The quiche is done when the filling is set and the top is lightly golden brown. You can gently jiggle the pie plate; the center should have a slight wobble but not be liquid.

Q: Can I freeze the quiche?
A: Yes, you can freeze individual slices of quiche for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the quiche?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, onions, or any other vegetables you enjoy. Just be sure to cook them before adding them to the quiche to prevent them from making the filling watery.

Q: What if my crust is getting too brown before the filling is set?
A: If your crust is browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will help to prevent it from burning.

Final Thoughts

I sincerely hope this recipe inspires you to create your own delicious Smoked Ham, Bacon, and Goat Cheese Quiche. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy weeknight meal, I’m confident that it will be a hit. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to make it your own. I’d love to hear about your creations, so please share your feedback and photos! Perhaps serve it alongside a mimosa for a brunch that is sure to impress. Happy cooking!