Introduction

Sausage and cheese quiche is the epitome of a comforting dish, perfect for brunch or a light dinner. This savory pastry combines the robust flavors of sausage with the creamy richness of cheese, all nestled in a tender crust. Whether serving at a special occasion or a cozy family meal, this quiche is sure to please everyone at the table.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt it to include your favorite cheeses, meats, or even vegetables. Additionally, quiche is an excellent choice for utilizing leftovers from the fridge, making it both practical and delicious. Let's dive into the ingredients and preparation.

Ingredients

1 pre-made pie crust
The pie crust serves as the base and vessel for the filling, providing a flaky texture that complements the creaminess inside. Using a pre-made crust saves time, but you can opt to make your own if seeking a fresh, buttery flavor.
8 large eggs
Eggs are the primary binding agent in the quiche, giving it structure and richness. As they cook, they set the filling, creating that luxurious custard-like texture.
1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream enhances the richness and creaminess of the filling. It contributes to the luscious mouthfeel that distinguishes a good quiche from a mediocre one.
1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
Sausage brings a hearty flavor and a bit of spiciness, depending on the type you choose. It pairs beautifully with the creamy eggs and adds depth to the quiche.
1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar, Gruyère)
Cheese not only adds flavor but also a wonderful gooey texture. Gruyère offers a nutty taste, while cheddar provides sharpness. You can mix and match based on your preference.
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
Onion contributes sweetness when cooked and a depth of flavor to the quiche. Sautéing it before adding ensures it becomes tender and aromatic.
1/2 teaspoon salt
Salt elevates all the flavors in the quiche, ensuring that it’s well-seasoned and enhances the overall taste experience.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Black pepper adds a bit of heat and complexity to the dish. It’s a simple yet effective way to balance the richness of the custard.
Optional: chopped fresh herbs (e.g., chives or parsley)
Fresh herbs can brighten the profile of the quiche, adding freshness and color. Use them to garnish or mix into the filling for added flavor.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Preheating the oven is crucial as it ensures that the quiche cooks evenly from the moment it goes into the oven. This allows for the crust to crisp up beautifully while the filling cooks through.

Step 2: In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion until translucent.

Sautéing the onion caramelizes its natural sugars, bringing out sweetness and greatly enhancing the overall flavor of the quiche. This step also softens the onion, preventing it from being crunchy in the final dish.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until fully combined.

Whisking the eggs with the cream creates a smooth, homogenous mixture that will yield the creamy texture characteristic of a good quiche. This step is vital to ensure that air gets incorporated, which helps the filling rise slightly.

Step 4: Add the cooked sausage, sautéed onion, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper to the egg mixture.

Incorporating these ingredients ensures that each bite is flavorful and satisfying. The cheese will melt into the custard, forming a delicious, cohesive filling. Mixing ensures even distribution of flavors.

Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading evenly.

Pouring the filling into the crust at this stage allows the sausage and cheese to nestle within the custard, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors. Ensure the mixture is evenly distributed to promote consistent cooking.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.

Baking until golden ensures that the eggs are fully cooked through and sets the filling properly. The visual cue of a golden top indicates that it's nearly ready, adding to the dish's appeal.

Step 7: Let the quiche cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Allowing the quiche to cool slightly before slicing helps it set further, making it easier to cut and serve. This resting time enhances the texture and prevents the filling from spilling out.

Choosing the Right Sausage for Your Quiche

The type of sausage you use can dramatically affect the flavor profile of your quiche. Whether opting for spicy Italian sausage, smoky chorizo, or a milder breakfast sausage, each brings a unique twist to the dish. Additionally, consider using turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner alternative, making this traditionally rich dish a bit lighter while still delivering on taste.

Cheese Varieties: Mix and Match for Flavor

Selecting the right cheese can elevate your quiche from good to extraordinary. Cheddar's sharpness and Gruyère's nuttiness are popular choices, but don’t shy away from experimenting with feta, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor. Each cheese variety melts differently and brings its own personality to the dish, making it fun to personalize every time you make it.

Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion

Sausage and cheese quiche is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a light lunch or brunch, or accompany it with roasted vegetables for a hearty dinner. Additionally, it can be sliced into smaller portions, making it a fantastic addition to a potluck or party spread, showcasing its adaptability.

FAQs

Can I use raw sausage instead of cooked?

It's not recommended to use raw sausage as it needs adequate cooking time, which may lead to an uneven quiche. Always cook the sausage fully before adding it to the egg mixture.

What if my quiche filling is too runny?

If your quiche filling is too runny, ensure that you mix the eggs and cream thoroughly and bake at the right temperature until firm. Undercooking is often the cause, so check for set edges and a slightly jiggly center.

How can I enhance the flavor of the quiche?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as paprika or garlic powder to the egg mixture, or include sautéed vegetables for an extra depth of taste.

What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but note that the quiche will be less rich and creamy.

How do I know when the quiche is done baking?

The quiche is done when the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly but not runny. A knife inserted should come out clean.

Can I add vegetables to this quiche?

Yes! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them first to reduce moisture.

Conclusion

Sausage and cheese quiche is a delightful dish that brings together savory flavors wrapped in a creamy custard. It's suitable for various occasions, whether a casual weekday meal or a festive brunch gathering. With its adaptability, you can customize it to suit your taste and preferences.

Enjoy exploring the rich combinations of flavors and textures in this quiche, and don’t hesitate to make it your own by trying different ingredients. Each rendition is a chance to unleash your creativity in the kitchen while delighting those you serve.

Recipe Card

Print Pin