Hearty Quiche Lorraine with Bacon and Cheese

Quiche Lorraine is a classic French dish that combines the rich flavors of bacon and cheese in a creamy, custard-like filling baked within a flaky pie crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this quiche is both elegant and satisfying. The smoky bacon pairs beautifully with the sharpness of the cheese, all enveloped in a rich, eggy mixture that sets beautifully in the oven.

Ingredients###

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

For the Filling:
– 6 slices bacon
– 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 4 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)

Instructions###

For the Crust:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim the excess to leave a 1-inch overhang.
7. Fold the overhang under and crimp the edges as desired. Prick the bottom and sides with a fork.
8. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, remove the weights and paper, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the crust is golden. Allow to cool.

For the Filling:
1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble the bacon.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the onions until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the cheese, crumbled bacon, and onions evenly over the bottom of the cooled crust.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese, bacon, and onions in the crust.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
6. Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped chives if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Hearty Quiche Lorraine with Bacon and Cheese, a perfect blend of rich flavors and comforting textures!