If you are looking for a savory, rich dish that combines comfort with a delightful Southern twist, this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Imagine a buttery deep-dish crust layered generously with sharp cheddar, tangy pimentos, smoky bacon, and a luscious, creamy custard baked to golden perfection—every bite sings with flavor and texture. Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a light dinner, or a special occasion treat, this quiche brings a unique, irresistible Southern charm to your table that your friends and family will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Each element plays a crucial role: the crust offers a flaky base, cheese brings sharpness and gooey richness, bacon adds smoky depth, and the eggs and cream create a silky custard filling that holds everything in perfect harmony.
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked: The sturdy yet flaky foundation that cradles all your delicious fillings.
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides bold, creamy flavor with a perfect melty texture.
- 3/4 to 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon: Adds irresistible smokiness and a salty crunch that balances the cheese.
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, well drained: Brings a pop of sweetness and vibrant color to the quiche.
- 4 large eggs: The key to that custardy filling, binding everything together with a silky smooth finish.
- 1 cup whole milk: Lightens the custard and helps create a tender texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Boosts richness and ensures the quiche is luxuriously creamy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle touch of warmth and spice.
How to Make Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Place a large rimmed baking sheet in the middle of the oven to heat up alongside it. This will help give your quiche a nice, even bottom crust with a little extra crispness when baked on the hot sheet.
Step 2: Layer the Flavors
Take your unbaked pie crust and sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the bottom evenly. This cheesy base will seep into the crust as it bakes, melding beautifully with each bite. Next, scatter the well-drained diced pimentos over the cheese to add bursts of bright color and mild sweetness. Finish this layering step by spreading the crumbled cooked bacon evenly on top, ensuring every slice has a satisfying smoky note.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and smooth. This mixture is the heart of the quiche, creating that silky custard that sets beautifully and holds the ingredients together with a gentle richness. Pour it carefully into the crust over your layered fillings, being mindful not to overfill to avoid spills.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the quiche on the preheated baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden and slightly puffed. To test doneness, gently shake the quiche—there should be just a little jiggle in the very center. Once baked, let the quiche cool for about 15 minutes to allow the filling to firm up before slicing. Serve warm for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.
How to Serve Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe by sprinkling freshly chopped chives or green onions on top just before serving. A few whole pimentos arranged artfully on the slices can add extra flair and invite guests to dive in. For added freshness, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can create a lovely contrast to the rich custard.
Side Dishes
This quiche pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette—think peppery arugula or mixed baby greens with a tangy lemon dressing. Roasted or steamed seasonal veggies, like asparagus or green beans, also complement the richness nicely. If you want something heartier, crispy breakfast potatoes or a fresh fruit salad are fabulous additions that round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
To make a meal feel extra special, serve the quiche on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of olives, pickles, or a bright tomato chutney. You can also cut the quiche into small squares for a brunch buffet or party platter, making it easy for guests to sample without committing to a whole slice. A colorful woven placemat or linen napkins will elevate the presentation and make every bite feel even more inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap your leftover Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for enjoying as quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep this quiche longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled quiche tightly with both plastic wrap and foil to protect it from freezer burn, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw the quiche overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results, so it retains its creamy texture without becoming soggy.
Reheating
To revive your quiche, preheat the oven to 350°F and place it on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through. Reheating in the oven rather than the microwave helps keep the crust crisp and the filling smooth. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving on medium power for 1 to 2 minutes works, but expect a softer crust.
FAQs
Can I use precooked bacon pieces instead of cooking bacon myself?
Absolutely! Precooked bacon pieces are a fantastic shortcut and work perfectly in this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe. Just be sure to drain any excess grease and measure the amount closely so you maintain the right smoky balance.
Is it possible to make this quiche vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the bacon and perhaps add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions to maintain the savory depth. Using smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke can help replicate that smoky flavor if desired.
Can I substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with another type?
Sharp cheddar is traditional here because of its boldness and meltability, but feel free to experiment. Gouda, gruyere, or a mix of cheeses can add wonderful complexity and creaminess while still complementing the pimentos and bacon.
What’s the best way to ensure the quiche custard is perfectly set?
Watch the baking time closely—35 to 40 minutes at 375°F usually does the trick. The quiche should be just set with a slight jiggle in the middle when gently shaken. Letting it cool before slicing allows the custard to finish setting and helps you get neat, clean slices.
Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Definitely! A flaky homemade crust adds a lovely personal touch and can elevate the whole dish. Just ensure it’s rolled out to fit a 9-inch deep dish pan and prepped properly. Blind baking the crust slightly before assembling can also help avoid sogginess if you prefer a crisper base.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for that next go-to recipe that combines bold flavors with comforting textures, you simply must try this Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe. It’s bursting with Southern personality and perfect for any time of day. Give it a whirl, and I promise this quiche will quickly become one of your cherished favorites to share with friends and family.
Print
Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bacon and Pimento Cheese Quiche is a rich, savory dish combining a flaky deep-dish pie crust with sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and sweet diced pimentos. Perfect for brunch or a comforting dinner, this quiche is baked until golden and set, offering a deliciously creamy texture and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust, unbaked
Filling
- 2 cups thick shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 to 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon (or 1 (2.8-ounce) bag precooked real bacon pieces)
- 1 (4-ounce) jar diced pimentos, well drained
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack to heat up as the oven warms. This helps provide an even baking surface for the quiche.
- Assemble Cheese, Pimentos, and Bacon: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly into the bottom of the unbaked pie crust. Next, distribute the well-drained diced pimentos evenly over the cheese. Top this layer with the crumbled cooked bacon, ensuring it’s spread throughout for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Mix Egg Custard: In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This mixture will create the creamy custard filling of the quiche.
- Pour Custard and Bake: Carefully pour the egg custard mixture into the pie crust over the layered ingredients, taking care not to overfill the crust to prevent spills. Place the quiche on the preheated baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. This resting period helps the custard to finish setting and makes slicing easier. Serve the quiche warm for best flavor.
Notes
- Use a deep-dish pie crust to accommodate the rich filling without overflow.
- Preheating the baking sheet ensures an evenly cooked, non-soggy crust.
- Adjust bacon quantity based on preference for smokiness and saltiness.
- The quiche can be refrigerated and reheated; consume within 3 days for freshness.
- Serve with a light salad for a complete brunch or lunch meal.
