Introduction to Eggs Benedict Quiche
Why Quiche is the Perfect Dish for Young Professionals
If you’re juggling a busy schedule and a social life, let me introduce you to quiche, your new best friend in the kitchen. This delightful dish caters to busy young professionals by combining convenience and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a hearty meal that impresses both your taste buds and your guests.
Imagine this: you wake up on a Sunday morning, craving something special but don’t want to labor over the stove. Enter Eggs Benedict Quiche. This dish gives you all the savory goodness of classic eggs Benedict but in a versatile quiche form. You can make it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Plus, it’s perfect for brunch gatherings, offering a tasty and hearty option for both family and friends.
Not only is quiche easy to prepare (you can even make it the night before), but it’s also endlessly customizable. Whether you’re a fan of chicken ham or prefer adding extra veggies, this recipe has something for everyone. With a delightful combination of flavors, an Eggs Benedict Quiche takes mere minutes to prepare—meaning you can focus on the more important things in life, like savoring your coffee or catching up on that book you've been meaning to read.
Ingredients for Eggs Benedict Quiche
Key Ingredients
Creating a delicious Eggs Benedict Quiche starts with a few essential components that blend together wonderfully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 eggs: The star of your quiche, providing protein and structure.
- 1 pie crust: Opt for store-bought or a homemade version—both work great!
- ½ cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and richness.
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream: For that extra indulgent texture.
- 1 cup cheese: Choose your favorite variety, whether it be cheddar, Swiss, or something adventurous!
- 1 cup cooked chicken ham, chopped or cubed: A tasty protein that pairs perfectly with eggs.
- 1 cup green onions: They provide a fresh, oniony zing.
- Salt & pepper: Just a touch to enhance all the flavors.
Optional Add-Ins
Feeling creative? Customize your quiche with some optional add-ins to elevate your dish:
- Turkey bacon or sausage: For a delightful twist on traditional breakfast meats.
- Spinach or kale: Boost your greens and add color.
- Bell peppers: A pop of sweetness and crunch.
- Tomatoes: Fresh or sun-dried for added flavor depth.
This Eggs Benedict Quiche is versatile, so don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite ingredients or leftovers. Happy cooking!
Preparing Eggs Benedict Quiche
Creating an eggs benedict quiche combines the beloved flavors of a classic dish with a modern twist that's perfect for any meal. Whether it's brunch with friends or a cozy family dinner, this quiche is sure to impress. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare this delightful dish.
Gather Your Ingredients
The first step to an eggs benedict quiche starts in your kitchen—gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 eggs
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup cheese (your choice!)
- 1 cup cooked chicken ham, chopped or cubed
- 1 cup green onions, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 packet hollandaise sauce (follow packet directions)
For more detailed tips on ingredient selection, check out this helpful guide on how to choose fresh produce!
Preheat The Oven
Once you have everything on hand, it’s time to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial as it helps the quiche cook evenly, resulting in that perfect, fluffy texture. While the oven heats, you can start prepping the egg mixture.
Prepare The Egg Mixture
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, scramble your 4 eggs. Add the whole milk, heavy whipping cream, and give it a good whisk. This step is essential for ensuring all the flavors meld together beautifully. Now, fold in the cheese, chicken ham, green onions, salt, and pepper. Make sure to combine them evenly! The green onions add a lovely freshness that brightens the dish.
Pro Tip:
Feel free to swap ingredients! Other meats or veggies, such as turkey bacon or spinach, work wonderfully. Just aim for about 2 cups total in add-ins!
Assemble The Quiche
Now, let’s pull it all together. Place the egg mixture into your pie crust, taking care to distribute the chicken ham evenly. This prevents clumping, ensuring each slice has that delicious flavor. Cover the edges of your crust with aluminum foil to protect it from burning while the quiche bakes.
Bake To Perfection
Pop your quiche into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook. The quiche is done when it’s puffed up and just set in the middle. As it bakes, you can prepare your hollandaise sauce, which can be drizzled on top or served on the side.
Enjoy this eggs benedict quiche fresh out of the oven, and prepare for an explosion of flavor with every bite! For a delicious pairing, consider serving it alongside a light salad or some seasonal fruit. Bon appétit!
Variations on Eggs Benedict Quiche
Vegetarian Eggs Benedict Quiche
For a delightful twist, try a vegetarian eggs benedict quiche! Simply substitute chicken ham with a mix of your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Add crumbled feta or a blend of cheeses for a creamy texture that complements the eggs. This variation is not only fresh and vibrant but perfect for those looking to lighten up their meal.
Spicy Eggs Benedict Quiche
If you crave a little heat, go for a spicy eggs benedict quiche! Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into your egg mixture. Additionally, swap out the chicken ham for spicy turkey bacon or even chorizo for an extra kick. This version pairs perfectly with a zesty hollandaise sauce, ensuring your brunch is anything but boring!
Feel free to explore these variations and find your favorite; it’s all about making the dish your own!
Cooking tips for Eggs Benedict Quiche
Tips for a crispy crust
To achieve that much-coveted crispy crust for your eggs benedict quiche, try blind baking your pie crust before adding the filling. Simply line the crust with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights or dried beans, and bake for about 10 minutes. This step helps set the crust's texture and prevents it from becoming soggy. Be sure to use a high-quality crust, whether store-bought or homemade, for the best results.
How to avoid soggy quiche
Nobody wants a soggy quiche! Ensure you’re not overloading the filling with too much liquid. The combination of whole milk and heavy cream gives a rich texture, but if you’re adding ingredients like vegetables that release moisture, consider patting them dry first. Lastly, keeping the quiche covered with foil for the first half of baking will lock in moisture without compromising the crispness of the crust. For more tips, visit Food Network’s Guide to Quiche.
Serving suggestions for Eggs Benedict Quiche
Pairing with fresh salads
Elevate your Eggs Benedict Quiche with a light, fresh salad! A simple mixed greens salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will create a delightful balance with the rich quiche. For something heartier, consider a spinach salad tossed with avocado, cucumbers, and a squeeze of lemon. The crisp textures and bright flavors will refresh your palate and complement the creamy, savory notes of the quiche perfectly.
Perfect beverage matches
To enhance your brunch experience, pair your Eggs Benedict Quiche with refreshing beverages. Try a freshly brewed herbal tea or a sparkling water with a twist of lime for a crisp finish. If you're in the mood for coffee, consider an iced latte or a rich cappuccino to ground the meal. Each option adds a lovely dimension to the dish, making your brunch all the more memorable. For more drink inspiration, check out this guide to brunch beverages.
Time Breakdown for Eggs Benedict Quiche
Preparation Time
This delightful Eggs Benedict Quiche takes just 5 minutes to prepare. That means you’ll have more time to sip your coffee and enjoy the morning!
Cooking Time
Pop it in the oven for about 50 minutes. You'll want to keep an eye on it to ensure that golden crust stays perfect and doesn't overcook.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at 55 minutes from start to finish. An easy and quick meal that’s sure to impress at brunch! Don’t forget—you can prep it the night before for even more convenience. For tips on making the most of your meal prep, check out this guide.
Nutritional Facts for Eggs Benedict Quiche
Calories
The Eggs Benedict Quiche packs a flavorful punch with around 350 calories per serving. It’s a delightful balance of richness without being overwhelming—perfect for any brunch gathering!
Protein
Each slice boasts approximately 18 grams of protein, thanks to the combination of eggs and chicken ham. This makes it an excellent choice for powering through your day.
Fiber
While this dish isn’t fiber-heavy, the inclusion of green onions and a pie crust contributes to a modest amount—approximately 1 gram per serving. To boost fiber even further, consider adding more veggies like spinach or bell peppers.
For more nutritional insights, consider checking out Nutrition Data for a deeper dive into your meal’s components!
FAQs about Eggs Benedict Quiche
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Absolutely! This eggs benedict quiche is perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to cook, just pop it in the oven. This makes it an ideal option for busy brunches or family gatherings.
What can I substitute for chicken ham?
If chicken ham isn't your favorite, there are plenty of alternatives. You could use turkey bacon, smoked salmon, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure to maintain about 1 cup of whichever substitute you choose to ensure the best flavor balance in your quiche.
How should I store leftover quiche?
To store any leftover eggs benedict quiche, allow it to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
For more tips and tricks on quiche variations, check out The Kitchn.
Conclusion on Eggs Benedict Quiche
In summary, the Eggs Benedict Quiche is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite, perfectly blending creamy textures and savory flavors. It's an effortless dish that promises satisfaction any time of day. Encourage family and friends to savor this easy recipe, and enjoy the smiles it brings!
Eggs Benedict Quiche
Equipment
- pie dish
Ingredients
- 4 eggs eggs
- 1 pie crust pie crust store-bought or homemade
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup cheese whatever your preference!
- 1 cup cooked ham chopped or cubed
- 1 cup green onions
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 packet hollandaise sauce see packet for directions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, scramble 4 eggs.
- Next, add whole milk, heavy cream, cheese, ham, green onions, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together.
- Place egg-mixture in the pie crust. Make sure the ham has not clumped together- spread it out if you need to!
- Lastly, tent your pie crust with some aluminum foil. This prevents the crust from burning.
- Place into the oven for 50 - 55 minutes! Make sure to check on it to prevent it over-cooking.
- As the quiche cooks, get started on your Hollandaise sauce. I frequently buy the packet from the store, but feel free to make your own as well!
- Place the sauce on top of your quiche or offer it on the side! Enjoy!
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