Ham and Cheese Crustless Quiche

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or quiche dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Sauté the Onions:
In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Whisk the Eggs and Milk:
In a large bowl, whisk together the 6 eggs, 1 cup of milk (or half-and-half if you want a creamier quiche), and sour cream (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sour cream will give the quiche a richer, creamier texture, but you can leave it out if you prefer a lighter version.

4. Add the Cheese and Ham:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and diced ham. Add the sautéed onions to the mixture and mix everything until well combined.

5. Pour the Mixture into the Baking Dish:
Pour the egg, cheese, ham, and onion mixture into the prepared pie dish or quiche dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

6. Bake the Quiche:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the center and golden brown around the edges. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the quiche is ready.

7. Cool and Serve:
Allow the quiche to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help it set further and make slicing easier.

Serving Suggestions:
With a Fresh Salad: Pair the quiche with a light green salad or a side of roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.

For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve the quiche with fresh fruit, muffins, or a smoothie for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch.

With Toast or Avocado: You can serve the quiche with a side of toasted bread or avocado for a heartier meal.

For Meal Prep: This quiche is great for meal prep. Make it ahead of time, refrigerate, and enjoy a quick breakfast or lunch throughout the week.

Cooking Tips:
Customize the Fillings: Feel free to swap the ham with cooked bacon, sausage, or even vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Use Half-and-Half for Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk. It will give the quiche a richer, more indulgent flavor.

Cheese Variety: You can use different cheeses to customize the flavor. Try adding mozzarella, Gruyère, or a combination of cheeses for a unique twist.

Make It Ahead: This quiche can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months and reheat it when needed.

Avoid Overbaking: To ensure your quiche stays moist and tender, avoid overbaking. Check the quiche a few minutes before the suggested cooking time to see if it’s set in the middle.

Variations to Try:
Vegetarian Quiche: Skip the ham and add vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

Bacon and Leek Quiche: Replace the ham with crispy bacon and add sautéed leeks for a flavorful and savory combination.

Spicy Quiche: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick to the quiche.

Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or basil for added flavor. Fresh herbs can really brighten up the richness of the quiche.

Crustless Quiche with Different Meats: Experiment with other meats like turkey, chicken, or even sausage for different variations of this quiche.

Conclusion:
This Ham and Cheese Crustless Quiche is the perfect savory dish for breakfast, brunch, or any time of the day. It’s easy to make, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and can be served warm or at room temperature. Whether you enjoy it with a light salad or as part of a more indulgent meal, this quiche is sure to become a household favorite. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option for busy mornings or gatherings with family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I make this quiche ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the quiche in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Can I add vegetables to the quiche? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to make it more filling and nutritious.

Can I use heavy cream instead of milk? Yes, heavy cream can be used for a richer and creamier quiche. If you use cream, you may want to reduce the amount of sour cream or omit it.

Can I make a crusted version of this quiche? Yes, you can add a pie crust or use a pre-made crust if you prefer a traditional quiche. Simply blind-bake the crust before adding the filling.

How do I store leftover quiche? Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can use any cheese of your choice. Cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or Swiss cheese all work well in this recipe.

Can I make this quiche dairy-free? To make the quiche dairy-free, use dairy-free milk and a dairy-free cheese substitute. You can also omit the sour cream and use a dairy-free yogurt instead.

Can I use pre-cooked ham? Yes, pre-cooked ham works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to chop it into small pieces before adding it to the quiche.

How can I tell when the quiche is done? The quiche is done when the center is set, and a knife or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should also be golden brown.

Can I freeze the quiche? Yes, you can freeze the quiche. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Reheat it in the oven when ready to serve.