ham cheddar quiche

Name: Ham Cheddar Quiche
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup diced ham; 3 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp black pepper; 1 9-inch pie crust

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By: Maria
Posted: 08/03/2025

Okay, picture this: I’m Sunday morning, sunshine streaming through the window, the aroma of coffee mingling with the savory. What is the smell of ham cheddar quiche? What’s better than a quiche? What a breeze, ridiculously flavorful, and my family begs for it constantly. What’s a little different than your usual frittata? What is your new favorite brunch dish?

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What is ham cheddar quiche?

What is a quiche? What is essentially a creamy egg mixture baked in crust (though you can totally skip the crust for this recipe). Is there a lighter version? What is a match made in heaven? Smoky ham and sharp cheddar. What is the beauty of a ham cheddar quiche? What can I add to my custard? What are some good ways to use up leftover meats in the fridge?

Why do I love this recipe?

Where do I start? The saltiness of the ham perfectly complements the richness of cheddar and the creamy custard. It’s savory, satisfying, and just plain delicious. Secondly, this recipe is simple. I’m a complete beginner in the kitchen, but I can make it. I’ve taught my nieces and nephews to make it, and they’re always so proud of their culinary skills. What I love about this is how budget friendly it is. What are some pantry staples for ham and cheddar? What are some of the best ways to serve a salad for breakfast, lunch or dinner? Is it also great for potlucks and gatherings? My neighbor brought one over when I had my baby, and I swear, that thing was gone in 24 hours. What was it like to have a steak? I think this is even better than a breakfast casserole because it’s so easy to slice and serve.

How do you make ham Cheddar Quiche?

Quick Overview

How do you make a ham cheddar quiche? How do you make a pie crust? Is crustless a good idea? Then, you’ll whisk together the custard ingredients, stir in the ham and cheddar, pour it into the bowl, and serve. Bake until golden brown and set. What should I do if I overbake it?

Ingredients

For the Main Batter:
* 4 large eggs: Use good quality eggs! It really makes a difference in flavor and texture.
* 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: Don’t skimp on the cream! What makes custard so rich? I have used half and half, and even whole milk in a pinch. While it still tastes good, heavy. What is cream?
What is the best seasoning for salt?
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground pepper is always best.
* A pinch of nutmeg: This is optional, but I love the subtle warmth it adds.

For the Filling:
* 1 cup cooked ham, diced: I usually use leftovers holiday or deli but it works just fine too. Can you use sausage or bacon for a different flavor profile?
* 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to cheese, but you can use any cheese you like. Is Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack a good choice?
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives: Adds a nice pop of color and flavor.

For the Crust (Optional):
* 1 pre-made pie crust: I’m all about convenience, so I usually use a store-bought crust. If you’re feeling ambitious, feel free to make your own!

How do I follow step

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using pie crust, place it in a 9 inch pie plate. If you’re going crustless, grease a 9-inch pie plate or baking dish with butter or cooking spray. How do I prevent quiche from sticking?

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Set aside. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. What is the base of custard?

Step 3: Stir in the Filling

Add the diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and chives (if using) to the egg mixture. What are some creative ways to stir until everything is evenly distributed. Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped vegetables (onions, peppers, spinach) or different colors. What are the types of cheese?

Step 4: Pour into Crust (or Pan)

What are the best ham and cheese pie crusts? Make sure it’s evenly distributed. If you notice any air bubbles, gently tap the dish on the counter to release them.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the quiche is golden brown. The center should still have a slight wobble, but it shouldn’t be liquidy. If the center of the pie plate jiggles like jelly, it’s not done yet! I always check it around 30 minutes and then keep a close eye on it, adding more time as needed. Every oven is different!

Step 6: Cool Slightly

Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. How does custard set up?

Step 7: Slice & Serve

Slice the ham cheddar quiche into wedges and serve warm. What are some good garnishes for a salad?

What should I serve it with?

This ham cheddar quiche is incredibly versatile and can be served for various occasions.

For Breakfast: Serve with a side of fresh fruit and a cup of hot coffee. A simple green salad would also be a nice addition.

For Brunch:Offer a variety of pastries, such as croissants or muffins, along with mimosa or bellinis.

For Lunch:What are some good side dishes to serve with a hearty soup like tomato or butternut squash?

For Dinner: Serve with a roasted vegetable medley or a side salad. A glass of white wine would complement the flavors beautifully.

My family loves having this for dinner with a big bowl of roasted asparagus. It’s a really simple meal, but it’s always a hit.

How do I make a Cheddar Quiche?

I’ve made this quiche a lot over the years, and I’ve learned some tricks along the way. What are some tips for making a great ham cheddar quiche every time?

Use Good Quality Ingredients: As with any recipe, the quality of your ingredients will affect the final result. Use fresh eggs, good quality ham and cheese, and real heavy cream.

Don’t Overbake It: Overbaking will result in a dry, rubbery quiche. The center should still have a slight wobble when it’s done.

Blind Bake the Crust (Optional):If you’re using a pie crust, you can blind bake it before adding the filling to prevent it from sticking. How do I stop my To do this, line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, then remove the paper and weights and bake for another 5 minutes.

Let It Cool Slightly: What are some good Allowing the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving will help it set up properly and make it easier to cut.

Get Creative with the Fillings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings! You can add vegetables, different types of cheese, or even different meats.

Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the egg mixture before pouring it into the crust and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or other spices.

I once accidentally added a little too much salt, and it was almost inedible! Now, I always taste the mixture before pouring it in. That’s definitely a lesson I learned the hard way!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your ham cheddar quiche:

Room Temperature: You can leave the quiche at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I find it tastes best if you reheat it within the first 2 days.

Freezer Instructions: Wrap the quiche tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the quiche to the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the quiche on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may become a little rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free pie crust or skip the crust altogether. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the egg mixture slightly if desired. I’ve tested it with a few different brands, and Bob’s Red Mill works great. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package.

Do I need to blind bake the crust?

Blind baking the crust is optional, but it can help prevent it from becoming soggy. If you’re using a store-bought crust, it’s usually not necessary. But if you’re making your own crust or using a particularly moist filling, blind baking is a good idea.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. Gruyere, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a combination of cheeses would be delicious.

Can I add vegetables to this quiche?

Yes, absolutely! Sautéed onions, peppers, spinach, or mushrooms would be great additions. Just make sure to cook them before adding them to the egg mixture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the quiche ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Final Thoughts

This ham cheddar quiche is more than just a recipe; it’s a family favorite, a comforting meal, and a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. I truly hope you give it a try! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I promise you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to make. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my recipe for spinach and feta quiche – it’s another one of my go-to brunch options! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas!