Mini Quiche Lorraine is a cute and tasty dish filled with eggs, cheese, and bits of crispy bacon in a flaky crust. They’re perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Who can resist a bite-sized treat that makes you feel fancy? I love serving these at brunches, and they disappear faster than I can say “Quiche Lorraine!” 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: I usually use a refrigerated pie crust for convenience. If you want to make it from scratch, a basic homemade pie dough will work too. For a gluten-free option, there are great pre-made gluten-free crusts available.
Bacon: Traditional recipes use bacon, but turkey bacon or pancetta can be great alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option. You could also skip the meat for a vegetarian quiche and add extra veggies instead.
Gruyère Cheese: This cheese gives an amazing flavor, but if you can’t find it, go for Swiss cheese or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella. These will still melt nicely and taste delicious.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream provides richness, half-and-half or even whole milk will work too. If you’re aiming for lower fat, use evaporated milk for a creamy texture without as many calories.
What’s the Best Way to Get That Perfect Mini Quiche Texture?
To achieve a creamy filling and a flaky crust, focus on these steps:
- Be careful not to overwork the pie crust. Gently roll and press it into the pans to keep it flaky.
- When mixing the eggs and cream, whisk until just combined. Overbeating can make the filling dense.
- Fill the crusts almost to the top, but leave a small space to allow for rising during baking.
- Don’t skip the bacon or onion cooking step. It cooks off excess grease and brings out their flavors!
These tips will surely help you create mini quiches that are delightful and oh-so-satisfying! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Mini Quiche Lorraine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust (or homemade pie dough)
For the Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion or shallot (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at around 40-45 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick yet impressive dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a mini muffin or tart pan with cooking spray or butter. This will help the quiches pop out easily once they’re done.
2. Prepare the Crust:
Roll out the pie crust on a floured surface. Next, use a round cutter to cut out pieces of dough that are slightly larger than your muffin pans. Press these rounds into the bottom and sides of the pans to form small crusts. Use a fork to poke a few holes in the bottom of each crust to prevent them from bubbling while baking.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain the excess grease. If you’re using onions or shallots, throw them into the same skillet and sauté until they are soft and fragrant. Let everything cool down a bit.
4. Mix the Filling:
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth. This will be the creamy filling that makes your quiche delicious!
5. Assemble the Quiches:
Distribute the crispy bacon and sautéed onions evenly among the pastry crusts. Then sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese over the top. Finally, pour the egg mixture carefully into each crust, filling them almost to the top.
6. Bake the Mini Quiches:
Place the filled muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the quiches are set and the edges of the crust are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once they are baked, carefully take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a bit of color and added flavor.
Enjoy these delicate, creamy mini quiches hot or at room temperature! They are sure to impress your guests!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If Gruyère isn’t available, you can substitute it with Swiss cheese, cheddar, or even a mix of your favorites. Each will give a different flavor profile while still being delicious!
How to Store Leftover Mini Quiches?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or warm them in the microwave, though they may not stay as crispy.
Can I Make These Mini Quiches Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and the crusts in advance and assemble them just before baking. Alternatively, you could bake them and then reheat on the day you plan to serve.
What Other Fillings Can I Add?
The beauty of quiches is that you can personalize them! Feel free to add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just sauté them first to remove excess moisture, so your quiche doesn’t get soggy!
