These Mini Quiche Lorraine are delightful little bites filled with creamy eggs, cheese, and crispy bacon. They are perfect for breakfast or snacks!
They are so easy to make, and I love serving them at gatherings! Everyone gets excited when they see these tasty treats, and they disappear in seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crusts: A package of refrigerated pie crusts makes it super easy. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use puff pastry for a flakier texture. For a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free pie crusts available in stores.
Bacon: Bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor. If you prefer a lighter option or need a vegetarian dish, try using sautéed mushrooms or cooked spinach instead.
Onion: Finely chopped onion is used for sweetness. You can swap it for green onions or shallots for a milder taste if you like. Some people even prefer leaving it out entirely!
Cheese: Swiss cheese is traditional in Quiche Lorraine, but Gruyère is a delightful alternative, adding a nutty flavor. Cheddar works too if you’re a fan of that cheese.
Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture. For a lighter quiche, substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though this will change the creaminess a bit.
How Do You Cook Bacon Perfectly Without Mess?
Cooking bacon is definitely a beloved technique in this recipe. Here’s how to do it right without splatters everywhere:
- Place bacon in a cold skillet and turn the heat to medium. This allows the fat to render slowly.
- Cook until the bacon is crispy, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking, about 5-7 minutes.
- Use tongs to remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to absorb excess fat.
- To minimize mess, consider cooking bacon in the oven. Just lay it on a lined baking sheet at 400°F (204°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Using these techniques will help you achieve perfectly crispy bacon and keep your kitchen cleaner!
Mini Quiche Lorraine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 package (about 14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts or puff pastry sheets
For The Filling:
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère cheese)
For The Egg Mixture:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking time. In total, you can have these tasty Mini Quiche Lorraine ready in about 40 minutes, making them perfect for a quick breakfast or a fancy brunch treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a mini muffin tin or mini tart pans to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Roll out the pie crust dough on a lightly floured surface. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles that are slightly larger than the muffin cups (about 3 inches in diameter). Carefully press these dough circles into the cups to form mini tart shells.
3. Cook the Bacon & Onion:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it’s crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Pour out all but about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat from the pan, then add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, then take it off the heat and let it cool a bit.
4. Assemble the Filling:
Sprinkle a small amount of the cooked onions and crispy bacon into the bottom of each pastry shell. Top with a little shredded cheese.
5. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or half-and-half), salt, pepper, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and combined.
6. Fill the Pastry Shells:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly into the pastry shells, over the bacon, onions, and cheese. Fill them nearly to the top, but be careful not to overfill!
7. Bake the Quiches:
Place your mini quiches in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. They should be set and golden on top—so delicious!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the quiches from the oven and let them cool slightly. Carefully lift them out of the tin and place them on a serving dish.
9. Garnish:
Before serving, sprinkle them with fresh chopped parsley or chives to add a touch of color and flavor!
Enjoy your delicious Mini Quiche Lorraine—perfect for brunch, appetizers, or a savory snack!
Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! Using a store-bought pie crust or puff pastry is a great time-saver and makes this recipe easier. Just ensure you roll it out if necessary, and follow the instructions for cutting and shaping it into the muffin tin.
Can I Make Mini Quiche Lorraine Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the quiches in advance! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven and adjust the baking time a bit if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mini quiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients. You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even different meats like ham or sausage. Just make sure any veggies are cooked and drained beforehand to avoid sogginess!
