A warm quiche is a great choice for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner. This easy ham and cheese quiche is quick to make and full of mild, familiar flavors that kids and adults like.
INTRODUCTION
This Easy Ham and Cheese Quiche is a simple dish you can make any day. It uses a store-bought pie crust to save time. The filling is creamy and rich but not heavy. You only need a few common ingredients and one bowl for the mix. If you like small, easy projects in the kitchen, this quiche fits well with quick jams or spreads like a delicious blueberry jam recipe for a brunch table.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is fast, flexible, and mild in taste. It takes less hands-on time than many baked dishes. The crust gives a crisp edge and the center stays soft. You can change the filling to match what you have on hand. This quiche works well for a family meal, a picnic, or as a dish to bring to a potluck.
The recipe uses simple steps. You whisk the eggs and cream, add the ham, cheese, and green onions, then bake. There are no tricky techniques. The result is a rich, savory dish that holds well for a few hours after baking.
HOW TO MAKE Easy Ham and Cheese Quiche
This quiche cooks in one pan and uses ingredients many people already keep in the fridge. Start by preheating the oven so it is ready when your quiche is filled. Mix the eggs and half-and-half until smooth, and then fold in the ham, cheese, and onions. Pour into the pie crust and bake until the top is set and lightly browned.
If you want a crisper crust, blind-bake the pie crust for 8 to 10 minutes before adding the filling. You can also use a deep dish crust if you like a taller quiche, but baking time may increase.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- 9-inch pie pan (do not use deep dish)
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or spoon
- Oven mitts
- Serrated knife or pie server for slicing
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 5 eggs
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 1/2 cup cooked diced ham
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 9 inch pie crust
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, salt and pepper, until the egg yolks have combined with the egg whites. Stir in the ham, cheese, and onions to the egg mixture. Place your pie crust into a 9 inch pie pan, not a deep dish pan. Crimp the edges of the pie crust. Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust. Bake for 40-50 minutes until the edges have browned and the eggs have set completely. Allow the quiche to set for 5 minutes. Serve.
HOW TO SERVE Easy Ham and Cheese Quiche
Serve the quiche warm or at room temperature. Cut into six to eight slices and plate with a simple side salad or fresh fruit. For a cozy breakfast, serve with toast and butter. For a light lunch, pair with crunchy greens and a vinaigrette. You can also serve the quiche cold as part of a picnic spread.
If you plan to serve at a brunch, keep the quiche in the oven at low heat (200°F) until guests arrive. This keeps it warm without drying the filling. For larger gatherings, bake two quiches and keep them wrapped on a tray; reheat slices in a low oven or in the microwave.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Easy Ham and Cheese Quiche
Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm a slice in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes or microwave on medium power for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.
To freeze, cool the quiche completely. Wrap whole quiche or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil or place in a freezer container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until warmed through.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Fresh fruit like berries, melon, or orange slices.
- Roasted or sautéed vegetables on the side.
- Toasted baguette slices or garlic bread.
- A bowl of yogurt with honey for a brunch spread.
If you need more simple meal ideas to pair with quiche, check our list of 25 delicious and healthy high-protein lunch recipes you’ll love for easy sides and main dishes.
VARIATIONS
- Spinach and Swiss: Swap ham for cooked spinach and cheddar for Swiss cheese.
- Bacon and Mushroom: Replace ham with cooked bacon and add sautéed mushrooms.
- Vegetable: Omit meat and add bell peppers, zucchini, and onions for a veggie quiche.
- Herb Mix: Add chopped parsley, dill, or chives for a fresh flavor.
- Cream Swap: Use whole milk or heavy cream instead of half-and-half for a richer texture.
You can also change the cheese type or add a bit of mustard to the egg mixture for a sharper taste. Feel free to mix in leftover cooked vegetables or meats to avoid food waste.
FAQs
Q: How do I know when the quiche is done?
A: The center should be set and not liquid. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The edges will look lightly browned.
Q: Can I use a homemade pie crust?
A: Yes. A homemade crust works well. Make sure it fits a 9-inch pie pan and bake as the recipe says.
Q: Can I use milk instead of half-and-half?
A: Yes, you can use milk, but the quiche will be slightly less rich. Whole milk is best if you swap.
Q: Do I need to pre-cook the ham?
A: Use cooked ham only. If you have fresh uncooked ham, cook it first. Leftover roasted or baked ham works well.
Q: Can I make this crustless?
A: Yes. Pour the filling into a greased pie pan or casserole dish and reduce bake time slightly. It will be more like a frittata.
Q: How long can I keep the quiche at room temperature?
A: Do not leave it out for more than 2 hours to avoid food safety risks. Refrigerate any leftovers promptly.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Easy Ham and Cheese Quiche
- Mix the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Pour into the crust and bake within 24 hours.
- Assemble the quiche in the pie pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if cold from the fridge.
- Freeze the fully baked quiche for quick future meals. Follow the storage instructions above for best results.
- Chop the ham and green onions in advance and keep them in separate containers in the fridge for up to two days.
If you follow these simple steps, you will have a warm, tasty quiche ready with little fuss. Try the basic recipe first, then adjust the fillings and seasonings to find the version your family likes best. For another easy oven-baked meal you can make any night, see our ultimate quick and easy chicken enchiladas.
Easy Ham and Cheese Quiche
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Stir in the ham, cheese, and onions to the egg mixture.
- Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges.
- Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes until the edges are browned and the eggs are set.
- Allow the quiche to set for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.