This Ham & Cheese Quiche is a timeless brunch favorite that’s both elegant and effortless. Featuring a flaky pie crust filled with savory diced ham, melty cheese, and a silky egg custard, it’s a dish that satisfies any morning craving. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself to a relaxing weekend breakfast, this quiche delivers classic comfort with every bite. It’s easy to make ahead, versatile with mix-ins, and pairs beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp chopped chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a store-bought pie crust, place it in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes if desired for extra crispiness.
2. Layer the ham and cheese evenly in the bottom of the pie crust.
3. Prepare the egg mixture by whisking together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a medium bowl until fully combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the ham and cheese, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. Tap the pie dish gently to remove air bubbles.
5. Bake the quiche for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
6. Cool slightly for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature with a side salad, fresh fruit, or toast.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 310
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 165mg
• Sodium: 540mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 13g
• Vitamin A: 15% DV
• Vitamin C: 2% DV
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 8% DV

The Appeal of Ham and Cheese Quiche for Brunch

Ham and Cheese Quiche is a beloved brunch dish thanks to its comforting flavor, easy preparation, and elegant presentation. It combines a buttery crust with a creamy, savory custard filled with ham and melted cheese, offering both richness and balance. Perfect for slow weekend mornings or entertaining guests, it can be made ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature. Its versatility makes it a staple in brunch spreads, offering a homemade feel without requiring complex culinary techniques.

Nutritional Value and Key Ingredients

Quiche delivers a mix of macronutrients—protein from the ham and eggs, fat from the cheese and cream, and carbohydrates from the crust. While the dish is rich and filling, it also provides important nutrients such as calcium from the cheese, iron from the ham, and essential vitamins from the eggs. Opting for lean ham and incorporating milk or low-fat cream can help reduce the overall fat content. When served with fresh fruits or a side salad, it creates a balanced meal with a variety of textures and nutrients.

Choosing the Right Cheese

The type of cheese you use significantly affects both flavor and texture. Swiss cheese is a classic choice for quiche due to its mild, nutty taste and good melting qualities. Cheddar adds a sharper flavor, making the quiche more robust and savory. Gruyère is another gourmet option that melts beautifully and has a slightly sweet, earthy profile. Mixing cheeses is also a great way to layer flavors—combine mozzarella for meltability with Parmesan for depth. Always shred cheese fresh if possible to avoid additives found in pre-shredded varieties.

Best Ham Options for Quiche

Ham adds a smoky, salty dimension that enhances the egg and cheese filling. Diced leftover baked ham is ideal, as it provides chunks of flavor without being overly processed. However, deli ham or pre-cooked packaged ham also work in a pinch—just be sure to choose a low-sodium variety if you’re watching your salt intake. For a gourmet twist, smoked ham or Black Forest ham introduces more complex flavor notes. Always drain excess moisture from ham before adding it to prevent a soggy crust.

Alternative Crust Options

Traditional quiche is made with a buttery, flaky pie crust, but modern variations include gluten-free and low-carb alternatives. A crust made from almond flour, for example, caters to keto and gluten-sensitive diets. For added nutrition, some cooks use whole wheat pastry crusts or even create a crust using shredded potatoes or cauliflower pressed into a pan. Another trend is the crustless quiche, where the custard and fillings are baked directly in a dish, reducing calories and simplifying preparation.

Customizing with Vegetables and Add-Ins

While ham and cheese are the stars, quiche is the perfect canvas for adding vegetables or herbs. Spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers are popular choices that add nutrition, color, and texture. Sautéing vegetables before adding them to the custard prevents them from releasing excess moisture during baking. Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or chives enhance flavor and freshness. Sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or caramelized onions can also be added to intensify the taste and elevate the overall dish.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

Quiche is a dream for meal prepping. It can be made one to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for early mornings or planned events. To serve, simply reheat it in a 325°F oven until warmed through. Quiche also freezes exceptionally well—just bake it fully, let it cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat until warmed. Freezing individual slices is another smart way to have quick breakfasts or lunches ready throughout the week.

Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal

Ham and Cheese Quiche pairs beautifully with a variety of brunch sides. Fresh fruit like melon, berries, or citrus provides a bright contrast to the richness of the quiche. A light green salad with vinaigrette brings freshness and balance. Baked goods like croissants, scones, or muffins round out the spread and add variety to a brunch table. For beverages, freshly brewed coffee, herbal tea, or even a sparkling mimosa can enhance the experience and elevate the occasion.

Ideal Cooking Techniques and Tips

For the perfect texture, it’s important not to overbake the quiche. The center should be set but slightly wobbly when removed from the oven; it will continue to cook from residual heat. Blind-baking the crust before filling prevents a soggy bottom and ensures a crispy bite. Whisking the eggs thoroughly and combining them evenly with cream or milk ensures a silky custard. Always let the quiche rest for 5–10 minutes after baking before slicing—this helps the filling set and makes for cleaner servings.

Serving Suggestions for Different Occasions

Ham and Cheese Quiche is more than just brunch food. It’s excellent for picnics, showers, holiday breakfasts, or light dinners. Sliced into wedges, it makes an elegant centerpiece for a buffet table. For a portable option, mini quiches baked in muffin tins are perfect for lunchboxes or party platters. You can also serve it as part of a “quiche trio” alongside variations like spinach and feta or mushroom and bacon to offer guests a choice of flavors. Its presentation and adaptability make it a go-to for both casual and formal settings.

Dietary Adaptations and Healthier Versions

For those with specific dietary needs, quiche is very adaptable. Lactose-intolerant cooks can use dairy-free milk alternatives like oat or almond milk, and plant-based cheese. For a lower-calorie version, use egg whites or a combination of whole eggs and whites. Reducing the amount of cheese and using lean ham or turkey ham also contributes to a lighter dish. Crustless versions drastically lower the calorie and carb count, making quiche accessible for people on low-carb, keto, or diabetic-friendly meal plans.

Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Quiche is a timeless, flexible dish that effortlessly balances convenience, comfort, and sophistication. It invites creativity in both ingredients and presentation, and its ability to be made ahead, frozen, or served warm or cold makes it a valuable recipe for any home cook. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering, prepping for a busy week, or simply craving something cozy and satisfying, this quiche delivers on every level. With endless variations and pairing possibilities, it continues to be a cherished staple in kitchens around the world.