Quiche Lorraine: Savory French Tart with Rich Bacon and Cheese Filling

Quiche Lorraine is a classic French tart that combines a flavorful custard filling with crisp bacon, sweet onions, and ooey-gooey Swiss cheese, all nestled in a buttery, flaky pastry crust. This dish is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and it embodies the perfect balance of richness and simplicity.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together.
4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preheat and Roll Out:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan.
3. Press the dough into the tart pan and trim any excess. Prick the bottom with a fork.

3. Blind Bake the Crust:

1. Place a piece of parchment paper over the crust and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.
2. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the parchment paper and weights and bake for another 5 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden.

4. Prepare the Filling:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy and then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

5. Assemble and Bake:

1. Spread the cooked bacon and onions evenly over the baked crust.
2. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese on top of the bacon and onions.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and bacon.
4. Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
5. Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious Quiche Lorraine!