Bacon and Cheese Crustless Quiche

Crustless quiche is a savory, delicious, and health-conscious dish that has gained popularity among those seeking a lighter, lower-carb version of the traditional quiche. With a simple base of eggs and dairy, it provides all the satisfying qualities of quiche without the added calories of a carb-heavy crust. If you love the flavors of traditional quiche but want a healthier alternative, a crustless quiche is a perfect choice.

Not only does the crustless version save you time, but it also caters to those who are looking for gluten-free and low-carb meal options. This flexible dish can be customized with a variety of ingredients, making it ideal for anyone looking to switch things up. Want to explore more high-protein breakfast ideas? You can check out EatingWell’s High-Protein Breakfast Recipes to find more delicious and energizing recipes that are perfect for starting your day.

Why Opt for a Crustless Quiche?

Opting for a crustless quiche has several benefits. Firstly, it’s an excellent choice for those on low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets, as you can easily avoid the extra carbs from traditional pie crusts. Crustless quiches also provide more room for savory fillings like cheese, vegetables, and meats without the heaviness of dough. Additionally, they’re often quicker and easier to prepare, making them perfect for busy mornings or when you need a dish for meal prep.

For example, Budget Bytes’ Bacon Broccoli Cheddar Crustless Quiche shows how easy it can be to make a budget-friendly crustless quiche while still using bacon and cheddar for a rich and flavorful result.

The Allure of Bacon and Cheese Combinations

The combination of bacon and cheese is a universally loved pairing that enhances the flavors of almost any dish. From sandwiches and burgers to scrambled eggs and omelets, bacon and cheese offer a delectable combination of savory and umami flavors that are irresistibly satisfying. In a quiche, this classic duo melds perfectly to create a rich, creamy, and flavorful filling that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Bacon brings a satisfying crispiness, while cheese contributes melty richness that perfectly complements the eggy custard base. The flavors infuse into the quiche, making every bite a flavor-packed experience.

If you love experimenting with cheese in your recipes, try checking out Wisconsin Cheese’s Bacon-Gouda Crustless Quiche for more creative ways to incorporate cheddar, gouda, and other cheese options in your quiche creation.

Nutritional Benefits of Crustless Bacon and Cheese Quiche

This bacon and cheese crustless quiche is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that can fit various dietary needs. The base of eggs and cheese provides a significant source of protein and healthy fats, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-protein meal. With fewer carbohydrates than traditional quiche, it’s also suitable for people following low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets.

High in Protein

The main ingredient in crustless quiche is eggs, which are naturally high in protein and contain essential amino acids that support muscle growth and repair. In addition, the cheese adds extra protein, as well as calcium, which is important for bone health.

Lower in Carbs

Because there is no crust, a crustless quiche is lower in carbohydrates than its traditional counterpart. This makes it a great option for those who want to reduce their carb intake, such as those following the keto diet. The bacon adds a savory richness, without adding unnecessary carbs.

If you want to experiment with variations of quiche to make it even healthier, feel free to substitute some ingredients with lighter options. For example, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a leaner protein source, or use low-fat cheese for fewer calories while still enjoying the creamy texture.

Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Quiche

Making a bacon and cheese crustless quiche doesn’t require many ingredients, but the quality of your ingredients will make a big difference in the final result. Below are the key ingredients you’ll need to create a flavor-packed and satisfying quiche:

• Eggs: The primary base of the quiche, eggs provide the custard-like texture that binds everything together.
• Bacon: Choose either streaky bacon or lean bacon for your quiche. For a lighter option, you can use turkey bacon.
• Cheese: Use a cheddar cheese for its sharp flavor, or explore other varieties like gruyère, mozzarella, or parmesan.
• Dairy: You’ll need a combination of heavy cream and milk for a rich and creamy quiche. If you’re aiming for a lighter version, opt for half-and-half or even cottage cheese.
• Vegetables: Add extra flavors and textures with vegetables like spinach, onions, tomatoes, or mushrooms. These will add depth and nutrition to your quiche.

Tips for Choosing Ingredients

• Cheese: Go for cheeses that melt easily, like cheddar, gruyère, or mozzarella. If you prefer a tangy taste, try using feta or goat cheese.
• Bacon: Ensure your bacon is crispy before adding it to the quiche to avoid excess grease in the filling. You can also pre-cook the bacon to your desired crispness.
• Vegetables: Feel free to sauté your vegetables beforehand to remove excess moisture and prevent the quiche from becoming soggy.

Preparing the Bacon and Cheese Filling

Before you bake the quiche, you need to prepare the filling. This involves cooking the bacon and preparing the cheese and vegetables that will be incorporated into the custard base. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cook the Bacon:

   • Heat a pan over medium heat and cook your bacon until crispy.
   • Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel to drain excess grease, then chop it into small pieces.

2. Prepare the Vegetables (Optional):

   • If you’re adding vegetables like spinach, onions, or tomatoes, sauté them lightly to remove moisture.
   • This helps to prevent the quiche from becoming soggy once baked.

3. Prepare the Cheese:

   • Grate or crumble your cheese. For a smooth texture, use finely grated cheese.
   • Set the cheese aside to be added to the quiche later.

Crafting the Custard Base

The custard base is what makes the quiche so rich and creamy. Here’s how to create a perfectly smooth custard for your bacon and cheese crustless quiche:

1. Whisk the Eggs:

   • Crack 6-8 eggs into a large bowl and whisk until fully blended.
   • Add your milk and heavy cream to the eggs and whisk until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.

2. Season the Custard:

   • Add your choice of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, nutmeg, and chives.
   • You can also add a pinch of mustard powder or paprika for extra flavor depth.

3. Blend in the Cheese and Bacon:

   • Stir in your grated cheese and cooked bacon, making sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the custard.

Assembling the Quiche

Once the custard is prepared, it’s time to assemble the quiche:

1. Prepare Your Pan:

   • Grease a 9-inch pie pan or quiche dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2. Layer the Ingredients:

   • First, add any vegetables (if using) to the bottom of the pan. Then, evenly distribute the bacon and cheese mixture over the vegetables.
   • Pour the custard base over the fillings, ensuring that everything is evenly covered.

3. Smooth the Top:

   • Use a spatula to gently smooth the top of the quiche and remove any air pockets.

Baking and Serving Suggestions

To achieve the perfect quiche:

1. Preheat Your Oven:

   • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Bake the Quiche:

   • Bake the quiche for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

3. Let It Cool:

   • Allow the quiche to cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

4. Serve:

   • Serve the quiche with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best parts of making a bacon and cheese crustless quiche is how customizable it is. You can easily change the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Some ideas include:

• Vegetarian Options: Swap bacon for spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to make a vegetarian quiche.
• Cheese Substitutes: Use goat cheese or brie for a more gourmet twist.
• Mini Quiches: Instead of making one large quiche, you can use a muffin tin to make individual servings of quiche. Adjust the baking time to 15-20 minutes for mini quiches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a store-bought crust instead of making it crustless?

Yes, you can use a pre-made pie crust if you prefer. However, the crustless version is a low-carb and gluten-free alternative that reduces the overall calories.

How do I store leftover quiche, and how long does it last?

Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to reheat it in the oven for the best texture.

Can I freeze the quiche for later consumption?

Yes, you can freeze the quiche. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 2 months.

What are some side dishes that pair well with quiche?

Quiche goes wonderfully with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or even fruit for a refreshing contrast.

How can I make the quiche spicier or more flavorful?

You can add jalapeños, hot sauce, or sriracha for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme.

Bacon and Cheese Crustless Quiche

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A savory, crustless quiche packed with crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a creamy egg custard—perfect for a low-carb, gluten-free meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 cup chopped chives (optional)
• Butter or non-stick spray for greasing

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream until smooth.
3. Stir in the shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and chives.
4. Pour the mixture into the greased pie dish, spreading the ingredients evenly.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use turkey bacon. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 210mg

Keywords: quiche, crustless quiche, bacon quiche, low-carb quiche