Delicious Smoked Ham and Cheese Quiche

Indulge in the comforting, savory delight of this Smoked Ham and Cheese Quiche. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy brunch or a family dinner, featuring a flaky homemade crust, creamy filling, and the rich flavors of smoked ham and aged cheese complemented by a hint of fresh herbs. Follow this recipe to bring a taste of gourmet elegance right to your dining table.

Ingredients

For the Pastry Crust:
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup smoked ham, diced
– 1 cup grated Gruyère or cheddar cheese
– 4 large eggs
– 1 1/4 cups half-and-half or whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation Stages

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Crust

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
2. Cut in Butter: Add 1/2 cup of diced unsalted butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add 3-4 tablespoons of ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together.
4. Chill Dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Sauté Onions and Ham: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the diced smoked ham and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 3: Assemble the Quiche

1. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch tart pan, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim excess dough and prick the bottom with a fork.
2. Blind Bake the Crust: Line the pastry with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the weights and paper, and bake for another 5 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 1/4 cups of half-and-half, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
4. Assemble Quiche Filling: Spread the onion and ham mixture evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top, then pour the egg mixture over the filling. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chives and parsley.

Step 4: Bake the Quiche

1. Bake the Quiche: Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
2. Cool and Serve: Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This will help the filling set and make it easier to slice.

Recipe Summary

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes for chilling)
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Calorie Count: Approximately 320 calories per serving (serves 8)

This Smoked Ham and Cheese Quiche is a delightful combination of rich, savory flavors wrapped in a buttery crust, ideal for any occasion. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature for an irresistible, satisfying meal that will have guests coming back for seconds!