Introduction
This pimento cheese quiche is a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a flaky homemade crust and a rich filling featuring cheese and fresh herbs, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at brunch or dinner.
Ingredients for the crust:
2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
1/2 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
1/4 cup ice-cold water
3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 large egg + 1 teaspoon water (for brushing)
Ingredients for the filling:
6 large eggs
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated white cheddar cheese
1/3 cup softened pimento cheese
1/4 cup chopped herbs (such as parsley, basil, and chives)
3 green onions, thinly sliced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon everything seasoning (for sprinkling)
Prep Time
30 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
Cook Time
1 hour
Total Time
2 hours
Yield
1 quiche (serves 8)
This recipe for pimento cheese quiche combines ease with delicious flavors, ideal for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the crust:
– In a large bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, sugar, and salt until well combined.
– Add the cold butter pieces into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring that you don’t overwork the butter.
– In a small bowl, combine the lightly beaten egg, white vinegar, and ice-cold water. Pour this mixture into the flour and butter mixture.
– Mix until the dough just comes together. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Roll out the crust:
– On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter, ensuring it is evenly rolled.
– Carefully transfer the rolled dough to a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and crimp or decorate the edges as desired.
– Place the prepared crust in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up.
Blind bake the crust:
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Line the chilled crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans to prevent shrinking during baking.
– Bake the crust for 15 minutes. Afterward, remove the parchment paper and weights, then return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is lightly golden.
– Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack.
Prepare the filling:
– In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, minced garlic, heavy cream, softened pimento cheese, and freshly grated white cheddar cheese until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
– Add the chopped herbs and sliced green onions to the egg mixture. Season with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
Assemble the quiche:
– Pour the prepared filling mixture into the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly across the surface.
– In a small bowl, beat together 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of water. Brush this egg wash over the edges of the crust for a golden finish.
– Lightly sprinkle the top of the quiche with the everything seasoning for added flavor.
Bake the quiche:
– Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
– Bake the quiche for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking.
– Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving to let the filling set.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
– This pimento cheese quiche can be served warm or cold, making it an excellent option for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Storage:
– Leftover quiche can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
Ingredient Variations:
– Feel free to customize the herbs and cheese based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Spinach, mushrooms, or bacon can also be added to enhance flavor and texture.
Cook techniques
Mixing the crust ingredients
Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky crust.
Chilling the dough
After mixing the dough, shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate. This chilling process helps to relax the gluten and solidify the butter for a tender crust.
Blind baking
Line the crust with parchment paper and use weights to prevent bubbling. This technique ensures a fully cooked crust that won’t become soggy after adding the filling.
Whisking the filling
Whisk together eggs, cream, and cheeses until smooth to create a creamy texture for the filling. This blend of ingredients will provide richness and flavor to the quiche.
Assembling the quiche
Pour the filling into the baked crust carefully, ensuring an even distribution. This step is crucial for optimal cooking and texture.
Checking for doneness
Bake until the center is set and the top is golden. Gently shake the quiche to check; if it wobbles slightly in the center, it should continue to cook as it rests.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese in the quiche?
Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese. Just ensure it’s a cheese that melts well for the best texture.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Blind baking the crust thoroughly and ensuring the filling is not excessively watery will help maintain a crispy crust.
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust in advance and freeze it. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
Is this quiche suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze cooked quiche. Wrap it tightly and store in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What herbs work best in this quiche?
Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and basil complement the flavors nicely, but you can use any herbs you enjoy.
How long should I cool the quiche before slicing?
Let the quiche cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set properly for easier serving.
Conclusion
This pimento cheese quiche offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures, perfect for any meal of the day. Its creamy filling, enhanced by fresh herbs and cheeses, pairs wonderfully with the flaky crust. Enjoy it warm or cold, making it a versatile choice for gatherings or quiet dinners at home.
Herb Vegetable Quiche
Swap out the pimento cheese with a mix of sautéed vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, and zucchini, combined with feta or goat cheese for a refreshing twist.
Smoked Salmon and Dill Quiche
Incorporate smoked salmon and fresh dill into the filling for a luxurious brunch option. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the quiche.
Mushroom and Gruyère Quiche
Add sautéed mushrooms and Gruyère cheese for an earthy, savory quiche. The rich flavor of the Gruyère complements the mushrooms perfectly.
Bacon and Cheddar Quiche
Mix crispy bacon bits with sharp cheddar cheese for a classic combination that never disappoints. This option adds a satisfying crunch to every slice.
Spinach and Feta Quiche
Combine fresh spinach with crumbled feta cheese for a healthy, flavorful filling. A sprinkle of nutmeg enhances the greens and adds warmth to the dish.
Caprese Quiche
Incorporate fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil for a quiche inspired by the classic Caprese salad. Drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving for extra flair.
Asparagus and Parmesan Quiche
Add blanched asparagus and shaved parmesan for a spring-inspired quiche that celebrates seasonal ingredients. The bright flavors and vibrant colors are sure to impress.
