Ham and Cheese Quiche: 1 Simple Recipe for a Delicious Homemade Dish

Introduction

Ham and cheese quiche is a classic dish that brings together a rich, creamy filling and a buttery, flaky crust. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a satisfying brunch, or a light dinner, this savory quiche is a perfect choice. With just a handful of simple ingredients like eggs, cheese, ham, and cream, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and impressive.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through a detailed, step-by-step recipe for making the best ham and cheese quiche at home. You’ll also find useful tips, variations, and answers to common questions to ensure that your quiche turns out perfectly every time.


What Makes This Ham and Cheese Quiche Special?

Easy to prepare – Simple ingredients and minimal effort.
Perfect for any occasion – Great for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Make-ahead friendly – Store it in the fridge or freezer for later.
Endless variations – Customize with different cheeses, meats, or veggies.


Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Quiche

Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients needed for this delicious quiche.

For the Crust (Homemade or Store-Bought)

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 4-5 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère)
  • 1 cup cooked ham, diced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)

How to Make Ham and Cheese Quiche

Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and creamy ham and cheese quiche.

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1️⃣ Combine Dry Ingredients – In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2️⃣ Add Butter – Use a pastry cutter or your hands to work in cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
3️⃣ Incorporate Water – Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until a dough forms.
4️⃣ Chill the Dough – Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5️⃣ Roll It Out – On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 9-inch circle and transfer it to a pie dish.
6️⃣ Pre-Bake the Crust – Line with parchment paper, fill with baking weights, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.


Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1️⃣ Whisk the Eggs – In a large bowl, beat eggs, heavy cream, and milk until smooth.
2️⃣ Season the Mixture – Stir in salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
3️⃣ Add Ham and Cheese – Fold in shredded cheese and diced ham, mixing well.


Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Quiche

1️⃣ Pour the Filling – Carefully pour the egg mixture into the pre-baked crust.
2️⃣ Bake Until Set – Place in a 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the center is firm.
3️⃣ Cool Before Slicing – Let the quiche rest for 10 minutes before serving.


Pro Tips for the Best Ham and Cheese Quiche

Use cold butter – This keeps the crust flaky.
Don’t overbake – The center should still have a slight jiggle.
Pre-bake the crust – This prevents sogginess.
Let it cool – The flavors develop better when the quiche rests before slicing.


Easy Variations & Substitutions

Try a different cheese – Swap cheddar for Swiss, Gouda, or Monterey Jack.
Make it crustless – Skip the crust and bake the filling in a greased dish.
Add veggies – Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions.
Go dairy-free – Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk.


How to Store and Reheat Quiche

🥶 Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 3 months.
🔥 Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Ham and Cheese Quiche Ahead of Time?

Yes! Prepare and bake the quiche ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What’s the Best Cheese for This Quiche?

Cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère work best because they melt well and add a rich flavor.

Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Crust?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a pre-made pie crust is a great alternative.


Final Thoughts

This ham and cheese quiche recipe is a go-to dish for anyone looking for a delicious, easy, and satisfying meal. With its flaky crust, creamy filling, and cheesy goodness, it’s guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect homemade quiche! 😊 🍽

Would you like to see more variations or meal pairing ideas? Let me know in the comments!

Author

  • Ava Thompson

    Ava—expert cooking

    Ava Thompson
    Ava Thompson

     Profile

    Personal Background

    Name: Ava Thompson Age: 42 Location: Portland, Oregon (originally from New Orleans) Years of Cooking Experience: 24 years Current Role: Executive Chef & Food Writer

    Professional Journey

    Early Career (1999-2007)

    • Started as a prep cook at 18 in a small French bistro in New Orleans
    • Worked under Chef Marcel Dubois, a traditional French chef who taught me the fundamentals
    • Learned classical techniques while absorbing Creole and Cajun flavors from home
    • I burned myself more times than I can count learning to work the grill station
    • Saved every penny to attend culinary school at Johnson & Wales

    Career Development (2007-2015)

    • Moved to Portland in 2007, worked at several farm-to-table restaurants
    • Became sous chef at "Harvest Moon" restaurant by age 28
    • Developed passion for Pacific Northwest ingredients and seasonal cooking
    • Traveled to Italy for three months in 2012, working in small trattorias in Tuscany
    • I learned pasta-making from Nonna Giulia, who became like a grandmother to me

    Current Phase (2015-Present)

    • Executive chef at "Ember & Oak," a celebrated farm-to-table restaurant
    • Started food blog "Ava's Kitchen Chronicles" in 2018
    • Regular contributor to several food magazines
    • Published cookbook "Seasons on the Plate" in 2022
    • Teaches cooking classes on weekends at local culinary school

    Cooking Philosophy & Style

    Core Beliefs

    • Seasonal Cooking: "I shop at the farmers market every Saturday morning—it's where my menu starts."
    • Technique Matters: "You can't shortcut good technique, but you can make it approachable."
    • Flavor First: "Pretty plates mean nothing if the food doesn't taste incredible."
    • Respect Ingredients: "Every ingredient has a story—my job is to let it tell that story."

    Signature Approaches

    • Combines French techniques with Southern comfort and Pacific Northwest ingredients
    • Known for elevating simple ingredients with proper technique
    • Advocates for home cooks to master basics before attempting complex dishes
    • Believes in teaching the "why" behind cooking methods, not just the "how."

    Personal Characteristics

    Personality Traits

    • Warm but Direct: Encouraging but honest about what works and what doesn't
    • Storyteller: Every dish has a memory or lesson attached
    • Perfectionist: High standards but understanding of home cooking limitations
    • Curious: Always experimenting with new techniques and ingredients
    • Nurturing: Loves teaching and helping others improve their cooking

    Personal Life

    • Lives in a 1920s bungalow with herb garden and small greenhouse
    • Married to David, a wine buyer who helps with beverage pairings
    • Two teenage daughters who are both surprisingly good cooks
    • Adopted rescue dog named Basil, who's always in the kitchen
    • Collects vintage cast iron and French copper pots

    Quirks & Preferences

    • Always starts cooking with a glass of wine and jazz music
    • Has strong opinions about knife maintenance and kitchen organization
    • Refuses to use pre-ground spices—grinds everything fresh
    • Keeps a sourdough starter named "Bubbles" that's 8 years old
    • Can't stand the term "cooking hacks"—prefers "time-tested techniques."

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