Easy Bacon Spinach Quiche Recipe: Perfect for Breakfast, Brunch, or Lunch
Quiche is an incredibly versatile dish, and when you add bacon and spinach, it becomes a savory delight perfect for any meal, whether breakfast, brunch, or dinner. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the recipe for bacon spinach quiche, highlight variations, and provide useful tips for getting the best results every time.
What is Quiche?
Quiche, originally from France, has become a beloved dish worldwide. Traditionally made with a rich egg custard filling in a flaky pastry crust, the dish has evolved into various forms. The classic Quiche Lorraine is a common variation featuring bacon. Our bacon spinach quiche brings in a healthy twist by adding nutrient-rich spinach to the mix, creating a balanced dish that’s full of flavor.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this mushroom quiche recipe for another flavorful take on quiche.
Ingredients for Bacon Spinach Quiche
To make the perfect bacon spinach quiche, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- Bacon: Choose between regular or thick-cut bacon for a more robust flavor.
- Spinach: Both fresh or frozen spinach works well, but remember to drain frozen spinach thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
- Eggs and Dairy: Eggs, heavy cream, and milk make up the base of the custard. Adjust the cream to achieve your desired richness.
- Cheese: Options like Cheddar, Swiss, and Gruyère work beautifully for their creamy texture and strong flavor.
- Pie Crust: For the flakiest result, either use a store-bought crust or make your own from scratch. Blind baking the crust before adding the filling is essential to avoid a soggy bottom.
For more hearty recipes, you might enjoy this crab quiche recipe, which is perfect for seafood lovers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
First, roll out your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. To avoid a soggy bottom, consider blind baking the crust at 375°F for about 10 minutes. This step ensures that your quiche will have the perfect flaky texture.
2. Cook the Bacon and Spinach
In a skillet, cook the bacon until it’s crispy, then remove and drain on paper towels. Use the leftover bacon grease to sauté the spinach until wilted. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture to your filling.
3. Mix the Egg Custard
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, and milk with a pinch of salt and nutmeg. This combination will give your quiche the perfect custard-like consistency.
4. Assemble and Bake
Spread the cooked bacon and spinach evenly over the crust, then pour the egg mixture on top. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly and bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes until the quiche is golden brown and set.
For more versatile options, try adding mushrooms or even caramelized onions to enhance the flavor profile. For instance, this loaded baked potato recipe can inspire more creative side dishes to pair with your quiche.
Recipe Variations
Here are a few variations to try if you’re feeling creative:
- Vegetarian Spinach Quiche: Skip the bacon and load your quiche with extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or caramelized onions.
- Low-Carb Option: Go crustless for a low-carb alternative. Simply grease your pie dish and pour in the filling directly.
- Cheese Variations: Switch up your cheeses by using Feta, Mozzarella, or even Goat Cheese for a more tangy flavor.
Nutritional Information
This bacon spinach quiche not only satisfies your taste buds but also delivers great nutrition. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 12-15g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
For those looking for lighter options, consider reducing the bacon or opting for low-fat cheese. Spinach provides a wealth of vitamins, including Vitamin K, iron, and calcium. Check out this nutritional guide to spinach to learn more about its benefits.
Pairing Suggestions
Wondering what to serve alongside your quiche? Here are a few suggestions:
- Fresh Salad: A light, tangy green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the quiche perfectly.
- Beverages: Serve with a glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice or a mimosa for a brunch treat. For something savory, a light Pinot Noir or Chardonnay works well.
For more complementary ideas, a simple shrimp salad can bring a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of your quiche.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe?
Yes! Be sure to thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
Do I need to blind bake the pie crust?
Blind baking ensures that the crust will remain flaky and avoid sogginess once the filling is added.
Can I make quiche ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bacon spinach quiche can be made a day in advance. Simply reheat it in the oven before serving.
How do I prevent my quiche from being runny?
To avoid a runny quiche, make sure you don’t overmix the eggs and cream, and bake it until the center is just set.
Conclusion
A bacon spinach quiche is the perfect dish for nearly any occasion. Its simplicity, combined with its endless possibilities for variation, makes it a must-try recipe. Whether you’re looking for a new brunch favorite or a make-ahead dish for busy weekdays, this quiche has you covered.
Try your own variations, and don’t forget to pair it with something light, like a refreshing shrimp salad or a zesty loaded baked potato to round out your meal.