This Bacon Jalapeno Popper Quiche combines the smoky flavor of crispy bacon, the creamy richness of cream cheese, and the spicy kick of jalapenos, all encased in a flaky pie crust. It’s the perfect dish for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, delivering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 3 strips bacon
- 1 9-inch frozen pie crust
- 4 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 2 jalapenos (seeds removed and diced)
- 1 jalapeno (sliced into coins)
- ½ cup whipping cream
- ½ cup half-and-half
- 5 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Sour cream (for topping, optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the Bacon: Place the bacon strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
- Prepare the Crust: While the bacon cooks, thaw the frozen crust for 10 minutes on the counter. Prick the crust all over the bottom and sides with a fork. Bake for 10 minutes alongside the bacon.
- Combine Bacon and Crust: Remove the pie crust and bacon from the oven. Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the bacon to a cutting board and roughly chop it.
- Spread Cream Cheese: While the crust is still hot, spread the cream cheese all over the bottom as evenly as possible. Sprinkle the diced jalapenos over the cream cheese. Set aside.
- Heat the Cream: Put the whipping cream and half-and-half into a small pot over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes until tiny bubbles appear around the edges. Do not let it boil.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: Beat the eggs together in a mixing bowl. Slowly add the hot cream mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to combine. (If you add the hot cream too fast, the eggs will cook and scramble.)
- Combine Ingredients: Add the paprika, salt, and chopped bacon to the eggs and stir to combine. Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust over the cream cheese.
- Initial Baking: Bake the quiche for 30 minutes.
- Add Toppings: Remove the pie plate from the oven and arrange the jalapeno slices on top. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and cool for 5-10 minutes before cutting into 6 slices. Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of sour cream on top, if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Calories: Approximately 350 per serving | Servings: 6
Serving and Storage Tips :
Serving Tips
- Ideal Temperature: This quiche can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
- Garnish Suggestions: Serve each slice with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. Freshly chopped chives or green onions can also add a touch of freshness and color.
- Side Dishes: Pair the quiche with a simple green salad or fresh fruit to balance its richness. A light vinaigrette dressing complements the flavors well.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The quiche will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The quiche can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, heating on medium power in 30-second increments until hot.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your Bacon Jalapeno Popper Quiche fresh or save some for later, making it a convenient and delicious option for any meal!
Variations :
Vegetarian Option
- Remove Bacon: Skip the bacon to make this quiche vegetarian.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the flavor with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
Spicier Version
- Extra Jalapenos: Increase the number of jalapenos or leave in some seeds for more heat.
- Add Hot Sauce: Mix a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the egg mixture for an extra kick.
Different Cheese
- Pepper Jack Cheese: Substitute cheddar with pepper jack cheese for added spice and flavor.
- Mixed Cheeses: Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack for a richer taste.
Crust Alternatives
- Homemade Crust: Use a homemade pie crust for a more personalized touch.
- Crustless: For a lower-carb option, skip the crust entirely and pour the filling directly into a greased pie dish.
Meat Variations
- Sausage: Replace bacon with cooked and crumbled sausage for a different savory flavor.
- Ham: Diced ham can be used instead of bacon for a milder taste.
Different Herbs and Spices
- Cilantro: Add chopped fresh cilantro to the egg mixture for a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Cumin and Coriander: Mix in a pinch of cumin and coriander for a subtle, earthy note.
Cream Cheese Alternatives
- Goat Cheese: Substitute cream cheese with goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Boursin Cheese: Use Boursin garlic and herb cheese for an herbaceous flavor.
Lower-Calorie Option
- Milk Instead of Cream: Use milk instead of whipping cream and half-and-half to reduce calories and fat.
- Egg Whites: Substitute some or all of the eggs with egg whites for a lighter quiche.
Seafood Twist
- Smoked Salmon: Add flaked smoked salmon instead of bacon for a sophisticated, seafood version.
- Crab Meat: Incorporate fresh crab meat for a luxurious, seafood-infused quiche.
These variations allow you to customize the Bacon Jalapeno Popper Quiche to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a versatile recipe for any occasion.
FAQs :
1. Can I make this quiche ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the quiche a day in advance. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes before serving.
2. Can I use a homemade pie crust? Absolutely! A homemade pie crust can add a personal touch to your quiche. Simply prepare your favorite pie crust recipe and use it instead of the frozen crust.
3. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy? Pre-baking the crust (also known as blind baking) helps prevent sogginess. Prick the crust with a fork and bake for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.
4. Can I freeze the quiche? Yes, you can freeze the quiche. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. What if I don’t have half-and-half? You can substitute half-and-half with equal parts of milk and heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter quiche, you can use whole milk instead.
6. How can I make the quiche less spicy? To reduce the spiciness, use fewer jalapenos and ensure all seeds and membranes are removed. You can also substitute jalapenos with milder peppers like bell peppers.
7. Can I make this quiche crustless? Yes, for a lower-carb option, you can skip the crust. Pour the filling directly into a greased pie dish and bake as directed.
8. How do I know when the quiche is done? The quiche is done when the center is set and not jiggly. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. The top should be golden brown and the cheese melted.
9. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites to customize the flavor.
10. How long can I store leftover quiche? Leftover quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it is tightly covered or stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
These FAQs provide helpful information for making and customizing your Bacon Jalapeno Popper Quiche, ensuring a delicious and hassle-free cooking experience.
Enjoy this delicious Bacon Jalapeno Popper Quiche as a versatile and flavorful meal that will surely impress your family and friends!