These Mini Quiche Lorraine are tasty little bites filled with creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and fluffy eggs. Perfect for breakfast or a savory snack! Yum!
They are so cute and easy to make, a hit at parties or brunch! I love popping them in the oven and then enjoying their warm, cheesy goodness. What’s not to like? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: You can use a store-bought refrigerated pie crust for ease, but homemade dough adds a personal touch. If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free pie crust mix!
Bacon: Traditional Quiche Lorraine features bacon, but you could substitute it with turkey bacon for a lighter option, or leave it out for a vegetarian version. Just add more cheese or veggies for flavor!
Cheese: Gruyere is creamy and flavorful, but Swiss cheese also works well. If you want a sharper taste, you can mix in some cheddar for extra flavor, or go vegan with a plant-based cheese substitute.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture, but you could use half-and-half or even milk for a lighter version. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, try coconut milk for a hint of sweetness.
How Can I Ensure My Quiche Filling Sets Perfectly?
Getting the filling right can be tricky, but here’s how to do it:
- Mix the eggs and cream thoroughly. This helps create a smooth filling.
- Don’t overfill the crusts; leave a little room at the top as the filling will puff slightly while baking.
- Keep an eye on bake time; every oven is different. It’s done when the filling is just set and the crust is golden.
Let them cool briefly before removing. This extra care really makes a difference in the texture and presentation! Enjoy your quiches warm or let them sit for a delightful snack later.
How to Make Mini Quiche Lorraine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust or homemade pie dough
For the Filling:
- 4 slices bacon
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 18-22 minutes to bake, totaling around 35-40 minutes. The mini quiches are quick to make and delightfully easy to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, take a moment to lightly grease a 12-cup mini muffin tin or mini tart pans. This helps the quiches pop right out later!
2. Cooking the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they are crispy. Once they’re done, place the bacon on paper towels to drain the excess grease and then chop them into small pieces.
3. Making the Crust:
Roll out your pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Use a small round cutter, about 3 inches in diameter, to cut out 12 circles. Gently press each circle into the prepared mini muffin cups to create your tart shells, and toss away any excess dough.
4. Mixing the Filling:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or half-and-half), salt, pepper, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the shredded cheese, chopped bacon, and chives to add flavor and texture.
5. Filling the Tart Shells:
Spoon the egg mixture evenly into each of the prepared tart shells, filling them almost to the top. This will allow the filling to puff slightly without overflowing!
6. Baking the Quiches:
Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for about 18-22 minutes. You want the filling to be set and the crust to be golden brown, so keep an eye on them towards the end!
7. Cooling and Serving:
Once they are done, take the quiches out of the oven and allow them to cool slightly before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. Garnish with some additional chopped chives for a pop of color.
8. Enjoy!
Serve these Mini Quiche Lorraine warm or at room temperature. They make a fantastic snack or appetizer. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the happy faces around your table!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Bacon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked bacon can save you time. Just chop it into small pieces and toss it directly into the egg mixture. Make sure to warm it up slightly if you’d like for more flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Mini Quiches?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Customize the Fillings?
Definitely! Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers), different cheeses, or even herbs like thyme or parsley to suit your taste!
Can I Freeze Mini Quiches?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let the quiches cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating!
