The moment I take a fresh batch of Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine out of the oven, my kitchen fills with the delightful aromas of crispy bacon and nutty Gruyere cheese, instantly lifting my spirits. This dish perfectly encapsulates the joys of cozy weekend brunches or a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity; the lack of a crust means less time fussing with dough and more time enjoying delicious food with family or friends.
Imagine slicing into this quiche to reveal a creamy custard, each bite a harmonious blend of rich flavors. Plus, it’s a versatile canvas—swap out the bacon for sautéed veggies or alternate cheeses based on what you have on hand, making it a staple in my meal rotation. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this quiche is not just a dish; it’s a comforting reminder of home and the special moments shared around the table. Dive into this easy recipe, and elevate your next meal with effortless elegance!
Why is Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: No crust means less hassle and more delightful flavors.
Irresistible aroma: The fragrant blend of crispy bacon and nutty Gruyere fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Versatile ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses for endless variations that cater to any palate.
Easy reheating: Perfect for meal prep, this quiche stays delicious when reheated, making it an ideal lunch or dinner option.
Impressive presentation: Each slice showcases a creamy custard bursting with flavor, sure to wow guests at any brunch gathering. Enjoy this delightful dish, and consider pairing it with a mixed greens salad for an extra touch of freshness!
Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine Ingredients
• Perfect for a quick, flavorful brunch or dinner!
For the Filling
- Center-cut bacon – Adds a smoky, salty flavor; ensure it’s crispy for the best texture.
- Gruyere cheese – Essential for that traditional quiche flavor; fresh-grated is best or use Swiss as a substitute.
- Heavy cream – Provides richness to the custard; feel free to substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Large eggs (room temperature) – Forms the custard base, ensuring even cooking; use room temperature for optimal results.
- 2% milk – Contributes to a creamy texture; switch to whole milk for even richer flavor.
- Fresh chives – Adds a pop of color and mild onion flavor; green onions can work as a substitute.
- Pinch of nutmeg – Elevates the flavor profile; freshly grated nutmeg adds a lovely warmth.
- Kosher salt – Balances and enhances flavors; sea salt is a suitable substitute.
- Ground black pepper – Offers essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
For Preparation
- Cooking spray – Used to grease your baking dish; consider using reserved bacon fat for added savory flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your quiche cooks evenly and achieves that beautiful, golden-brown top.
-
Cook bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, which takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain them on paper towels—this helps to maintain the perfect texture without a soggy quiche.
-
Grease a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray or rub with reserved bacon fat for added flavor. Evenly distribute crumbled bacon across the bottom and then sprinkle shredded Gruyere cheese on top.
-
Whisk together the room-temperature eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg in a bowl until smooth. This is your luscious custard base, so make sure to blend it well!
-
Pour the egg mixture over the bacon and cheese in the dish, ensuring even distribution. Top with freshly chopped chives for a burst of color and flavor.
-
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly. It will continue to firm up as it cools, giving you that perfect slice.
-
Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature—this quiche is delicious any way you enjoy it!
Optional: Garnish with extra chives or a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences!
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap out bacon for sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to create a vibrant veggie quiche. Adding your favorite herbs will elevate the flavor even more.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up. This adds a zesty twist that will awaken your taste buds!
- Herbed Twist: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for an aromatic uplift that complements the cheesy goodness beautifully. A little goes a long way!
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheddar, feta, or pepper jack for a unique flavor. Each cheese lends its own character, making every quiche a delightful surprise.
- Creamy Additions: Add a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of sour cream to the egg mixture for an extra creamy texture that’s oh-so-luscious!
- Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts before baking for a crunch and a hint of nuttiness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy custard.
- Smoked Flavor: Use smoked bacon or add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to infuse warm, smoky notes throughout the dish. This gives the quiche a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine
-
Egg Temperature Matters: Use room-temperature eggs for a smoother custard that cooks evenly and creates the best texture in your cheesy crustless quiche Lorraine.
-
Crispy Bacon: Ensure your bacon is cooked until crispy and well-drained before adding it to the quiche. This prevents sogginess and maintains that delightful crunch.
-
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your quiche while baking; remove it from the oven when the center is just slightly jiggly to avoid dryness.
-
Grease Wisely: Properly grease your baking dish with cooking spray or bacon fat. This ensures easy release and clean slices when serving your delicious quiche.
-
Season Well: Taste your egg mixture before baking. Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper to suit your preference for a well-balanced flavor in your cheesy crustless quiche Lorraine.
Storage Tips for Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Slice the quiche before freezing for easy thawing; it can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Microwave individual slices for 60-90 seconds or warm the whole quiche in a preheated 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to enjoy its creamy texture.
What to Serve with Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine?
Set the scene for a delightful brunch that’ll fill your home with warmth and joy.
-
Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with fresh greens and vinaigrette complements the rich quiche, balancing flavors beautifully. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for a splash of color!
-
Crispy Hash Browns: The golden, crispy texture of hash browns adds a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy quiche, creating a harmonious brunch experience. They’re a classic pairing that never disappoints.
-
Fresh Fruit Platter: Bright, juicy fruits like berries and melons add a refreshing note, cutting through the richness of the quiche. It’s like a burst of sunshine on your plate!
-
Savory Scones: With herbs or cheese baked in, scones offer a delightful contrast to the quiche’s creamy texture, making for a comforting, homely meal.
-
Chilled Mimosa: This bubbly drink combines the sweetness of orange juice with sparkling wine—perfect for brunch! It enhances the occasion and makes it feel extra special.
-
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and fresh fruit, this parfait adds a creamy, textural contrast to the dish. It’s a refreshing way to start the day!
-
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter provide a rustic touch, perfect for mopping up any leftover custard. They’ll disappear in no time!
-
Herbal Tea: A fragrant cup of herbal tea brings warmth and an inviting aroma to your table, making it a cozy addition to your brunch spread.
Embrace the joy of family and friends as you serve this delightful feast together!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the quiche filling (bacon, cheese, and egg mixture) up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, the cooked quiche can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just ensure it cools completely before covering it to avoid excess moisture that can affect the texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for 60-90 seconds or warm the entire quiche in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes. Enjoy a delightful homemade meal without the last-minute rush!
Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Center-cut bacon is ideal as it adds a smoky, salty flavor. Ensure it’s cooked until crispy for optimal texture, which enhances the overall quiche experience.
How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 4 days. I often enjoy reheating a slice for a quick snack or light lunch!
Can I freeze Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine?
Yes! Slice the quiche before freezing to make thawing easier. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover quiche?
For individual slices, microwave them for 60-90 seconds. If you’re reheating the whole quiche, place it in a preheated 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. This will ensure it’s heated through and will maintain that creamy texture.
What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute the bacon with cooked sausage or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version. Always check if any of your guests have allergies to the main ingredients, like eggs or dairy, and consider using dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or a dairy-free cheese blend if needed.
How do I know if my quiche is perfectly baked?
Monitor the baking closely; the quiche should be removed from the oven when the center has a slight jiggle. It continues to firm up as it cools, ensuring a perfectly textured slice!
Irresistible Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine for Easy Brunch
Equipment
- - 9-inch pie dish
- - Skillet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 6 ounces center-cut bacon Adds a smoky, salty flavor; ensure it's crispy for the best texture.
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese Essential for that traditional quiche flavor; fresh-grated is best.
- 1 cup heavy cream Provides richness to the custard; feel free to substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- 4 large eggs Use room temperature for optimal results.
- 1/2 cup 2% milk Contributes to a creamy texture; switch to whole milk for richer flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives Adds a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
- 1 pinch nutmeg Elevates the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Balances and enhances flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper Offers essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
For Preparation
- 1 can cooking spray Used to grease your baking dish.
Instructions
How to Make Cheesy Crustless Quiche Lorraine
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Grease a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray or reserved bacon fat. Distribute crumbled bacon across the bottom and sprinkle shredded Gruyere cheese on top.
- Whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth in a bowl.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bacon and cheese in the dish. Top with chopped chives.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly.
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature.