There’s something magical about the warm, flaky crust of a quiche paired with its creamy, cheesy filling. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. Ham cheese quiche is the perfect blend of savory ham, gooey cheese, and a rich custard, all nestled in a buttery pie crust. Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch, a casual dinner, or a comforting breakfast-for-dinner meal, this dish is a surefire hit that feels homemade in the best way possible. Let’s explore how you can create this timeless favorite step by step!
Why Ham Cheese Quiche Is Perfect for Any Occasion
Quiches are incredibly versatile. You can serve them warm, cold, or at room temperature, making them ideal for everything from elegant brunch spreads to simple weekday leftovers. Plus, they’re customizable—ham cheese quiche offers a classic flavor combination, but you can easily tweak it to suit your family’s preferences. The mix of creamy custard, savory ham, and cheesy goodness makes every bite comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients for Ham Cheese Quiche
To get started, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what makes up this delicious quiche:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Diced ham | 1 cup |
| Cream cheese | 2 oz |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Green onion, chopped | 1 |
| Hot sauce | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sour cream | 3 tablespoons |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Deep dish pie crust (9-inch) | 1 |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Ham Cheese Quiche
1. Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
Before diving in, make sure you have all your ingredients measured, chopped, and ready to go. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when your quiche goes in.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust
Place your 9-inch deep-dish pie crust on a baking sheet to make transferring it to the oven easier. If you’re using a frozen crust, let it thaw for a few minutes while you prepare the filling.
3. Cook the Ham
If your ham is pre-cooked, you can use it as-is. However, for extra flavor, you can lightly sauté the diced ham in a skillet for a few minutes to bring out its natural sweetness and savory notes.
4. Blend the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Use a spatula or fork to mix everything together until it forms a smooth, creamy mixture.
5. Prepare the Custard Base
In another bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This rich custard base is what gives your quiche its silky texture.
6. Assemble the Quiche
Now it’s time to bring everything together:
- Spread the ham evenly across the bottom of the pie crust.
- Sprinkle the chopped green onion over the ham.
- Spoon the cheese mixture on top, spreading it evenly.
- Pour the custard mixture over everything, letting it fill all the gaps.
7. Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the quiche in your preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
Once baked, let your quiche cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set further and ensures clean, beautiful slices.
Tips for Making the Perfect Ham Cheese Quiche
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh eggs, high-quality ham, and sharp cheddar cheese will elevate the flavor of your quiche.
- Customize the Fillings: Add spinach, mushrooms, or even diced bell peppers to give your quiche extra depth and nutrition.
- Avoid Soggy Crusts: Pre-bake the crust for 5 minutes before adding the filling if you prefer a crisper base.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the quiche during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly.
Why This Recipe Works
Ham cheese quiche is a simple recipe, but its balance of flavors and textures is what makes it a standout. The diced ham adds a salty, savory bite, while the creamy cheeses and custard create a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth filling. The flaky crust ties it all together, creating a dish that’s both hearty and elegant.
Nutritional Benefits of Ham Cheese Quiche
Quiche isn’t just delicious; it also offers several key nutrients:
- Protein: The eggs, ham, and cheese provide a protein-packed base to keep you full and energized.
- Calcium: Cheddar cheese and cream contribute to your daily calcium needs, supporting bone health.
- Healthy Fats: The cream and cheese provide fats essential for brain function and energy.
- Vitamins: Green onions add a dose of vitamins A and C.
What to Serve with Ham Cheese Quiche
Ham cheese quiche pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Fresh fruit salad with berries and melon
- Toasted baguette slices or garlic bread
- A refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage
Ham cheese quiche is a great dish to make ahead. Here’s how you can prepare and store it:
- Prep Ahead: Assemble the quiche a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, unbaked. Bake it fresh the next day.
- Store Leftovers: Wrap leftover quiche tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Later: Cooked quiche freezes well! Let it cool completely, wrap it in plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
FAQs About Ham Cheese Quiche
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Swap cheddar for Swiss, Gruyère, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make this quiche crustless?
Absolutely! Simply skip the crust and bake the filling in a greased pie dish for a low-carb version.
3. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but the quiche may not be as rich. For the best results, use whole milk or a mix of milk and cream.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the ham and add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
5. How do I reheat quiche?
Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Avoid the microwave as it can make the crust soggy.
6. Can I use store-bought crust?
Of course! Store-bought crust saves time and works perfectly for this recipe.
Your Turn to Make Ham Cheese Quiche
Now that you know how to create this delicious ham cheese quiche, it’s time to give it a try! This versatile dish is perfect for brunches, family dinners, or even meal prep. The flaky crust, creamy filling, and savory ham will make it an instant favorite in your home. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start baking—you won’t regret it!
Summary for Ham Cheese Quiche: A Deliciously Simple Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1 cup diced ham
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 green onion chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 eggs
- 1 9-inch deep dish pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Crust: Place the deep-dish pie crust on a baking sheet for easy transfer.
- Cook Ham (Optional): For extra flavor, sauté diced ham in a skillet until slightly caramelized.
- Mix Cheese Base: Combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and sour cream in a bowl until smooth.
- Whisk Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble Quiche: Layer ham and chopped green onion in the pie crust. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the ham, then pour the custard mixture on top.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is set and a knife inserted into it comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the quiche cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.