Hearty Bacon and Swiss Quiche

The Ultimate Crustless Bacon and Swiss Quiche: Your New Go-To Breakfast

Are you one of those people who simply can’t resist a perfectly baked quiche? We wholeheartedly agree! There’s something undeniably comforting and satisfying about a creamy, savory egg custard baked to golden perfection. Today, we’re introducing a recipe that will not only meet your quiche cravings but might just become your absolute favorite: the **Crustless Bacon and Swiss Quiche**. This isn’t just any quiche; it’s a testament to simple elegance and incredible flavor, setting up beautifully every single time.

What makes this particular quiche truly special is its unique crustless nature. Forget the fuss of making or rolling out a pastry crust; this recipe streamlines the process without sacrificing any of the rich taste or delightful texture you expect from a gourmet quiche. It’s a game-changer, especially for busy mornings or when you’re looking for a lighter, gluten-friendly option. And for those seeking the ideal holiday breakfast? Look no further! This quiche is a stellar choice for occasions like Christmas morning, thanks to its brilliant make-ahead potential. Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked quiche, knowing all the hard work was done the night before. You truly won’t miss the crust with this one; it’s unbelievably good!

A delicious slice of crustless bacon and Swiss quiche on a plate, ready to be enjoyed.

Why Go Crustless? Embracing Simplicity and Health

The idea of a crustless quiche might initially raise an eyebrow for traditionalists, but once you experience its benefits, you’ll be a convert. Eliminating the crust isn’t just about saving time (though that’s a huge bonus!); it opens up a world of advantages. Firstly, it makes this recipe naturally gluten-free, catering to a wider range of dietary needs without compromise. Secondly, it reduces the carb count, making it a fantastic option for those mindful of their intake. But perhaps the most compelling reason is the pure, unadulterated focus it places on the creamy, flavorful filling. Without a heavy crust, the delicate balance of eggs, cheese, and bacon truly shines, allowing each ingredient to contribute to a harmonious culinary experience. This lighter approach means you can enjoy the richness of quiche without feeling overly full, making it perfect for any meal of the day.

The Irresistible Charm of Bacon and Swiss

The pairing of crispy, salty bacon with the nutty, slightly sweet notes of Swiss cheese is a classic for a reason – it’s pure magic. In this quiche, these ingredients are not just toppings; they are integral to the soul of the dish. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from the bacon, complemented by pockets of melted, gooey Swiss cheese. The sautéed diced onion, infused with the rich flavor of bacon grease, adds a subtle depth and aromatic warmth that elevates the entire dish. This combination ensures a savory, well-rounded flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated, guaranteeing a memorable taste experience that will have you reaching for another slice.

Ingredients for the quiche laid out, including bacon, Swiss cheese, and eggs.
Layers of grated Swiss cheese, sautéed onion, and crumbled bacon arranged in a pie dish.
A close-up of the egg, milk, flour, and salt mixture being blended for a smooth custard.
The blended egg mixture being carefully poured over the layered ingredients in the pie dish.
The crustless quiche baking in the oven, achieving a beautiful golden-brown color.
A perfectly baked and golden-brown crustless quiche, fresh out of the oven.
A serving of crustless bacon and Swiss quiche with a fork, ready to be eaten.

Perfect for Every Occasion: From Holiday Brunches to Easy Weeknight Dinners

While we highlighted this quiche as a Christmas morning marvel, its versatility extends far beyond festive holidays. It’s truly a year-round champion. Imagine serving it as the centerpiece of a leisurely Sunday brunch, accompanied by fresh fruit and a mimosa, or alongside a vibrant green salad. For a busy weeknight, it transforms into a surprisingly quick and satisfying dinner option when paired with a light, crisp salad. Its make-ahead nature also makes it ideal for meal prepping; bake a large one at the beginning of the week, and enjoy delicious, ready-to-heat portions for quick breakfasts or lunches on the go. This quiche adapts seamlessly to your schedule, making healthy and delicious eating more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Mastering the Ingredients: Tips for a Flawless Quiche

Creating this perfect quiche starts with understanding its core components and how they contribute to the final masterpiece. Here’s a closer look at the stars of our show and how to get the best out of them:

  • Bacon: We recommend using thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture. Cook it until perfectly crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Don’t discard that precious bacon grease – we’ll be using a couple of tablespoons to sauté the onions, infusing them with an incredible depth of flavor that a regular oil simply can’t replicate. This step is crucial for building the quiche’s rich, savory base and distinguishing it from other recipes.
  • Swiss Cheese: Grated Swiss cheese is essential for even distribution and melt. While pre-grated cheese is convenient, grating it yourself often yields a fresher flavor and better melt, as pre-shredded varieties can sometimes contain anti-caking agents. About 2 cups (4 oz) is the perfect amount to ensure cheesy goodness in every bite, providing that classic nutty flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous or want to tweak the flavor, consider a mix of Gruyère and Swiss, or even a sharp white cheddar for a bolder profile.
  • Onion: Diced onion provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic base. Sautéing it in bacon grease until tender and slightly caramelized is crucial. This process mellows the onion’s raw bite and concentrates its flavor, making it a seamless addition to the quiche without overpowering the other ingredients. This small step adds significant depth.
  • Eggs: The foundation of any quiche, eggs provide structure and richness. Ensure they are well-beaten to achieve a smooth, uniform custard. Using fresh, high-quality eggs will always result in a better-tasting quiche with a more vibrant color and richer texture.
  • Milk: The liquid component that creates the custard’s creamy texture. Whole milk is recommended for the richest and most luxurious result, but you can use lower-fat milk if preferred, though it might slightly alter the richness and mouthfeel. Half-and-half or heavy cream can also be used for an even more indulgent quiche.
  • Flour: A small amount of all-purpose flour acts as a binding agent, helping the quiche set up perfectly and preventing it from becoming watery. It contributes to the desired firm yet tender consistency without making the quiche heavy or dense. This is a key ingredient for a reliable, perfectly set quiche.
  • Salt: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste, keeping in mind the inherent saltiness of the bacon. Freshly ground black pepper could also be a welcome addition to the egg mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Thumbnail image for Bacon and Swiss Quiche recipe.

Bacon and Swiss Quiche

So satisfying and sets up perfectly every time!

Rated 5 stars from 1 vote.

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Course: Breakfast

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 8 slices bacon, cooked then crumbled
  • 4 oz grated Swiss cheese (about 2 cups)
  • 4 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup diced onion, sautéed in 2T of the bacon grease
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1 1/2 cups milk

Instructions

  1. Spray a pie dish with cooking spray.

  2. Layer the bottom with the cheese, then onion, then bacon.

  3. In a blender, blend the milk, eggs, flour, and salt. Then pour into the dish.

  4. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes before digging in.

Step-by-Step Perfection: Crafting Your Crustless Quiche

Follow these simple steps to ensure your quiche turns out perfectly every time, from its beautifully golden top to its creamy, flavorful interior:

  1. Prepare Your Dish: Start by lightly greasing a standard 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray. This crucial step ensures your quiche won’t stick and will slide out effortlessly for serving, maintaining its pristine shape. Don’t skip this, as a crustless quiche relies on a well-prepared dish.
  2. Layer the Flavor Base: Evenly scatter the grated Swiss cheese across the bottom of the prepared pie dish. This creates a delightful cheesy “crust-like” layer on the bottom as it bakes. Next, distribute the sautéed diced onions over the cheese, ensuring they are spread out. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled, cooked bacon over the onions. These layers are intentionally built to distribute flavor evenly and prevent all the heavier ingredients from sinking to the bottom.
  3. Whip Up the Custard: In a blender, combine the milk, well-beaten eggs, flour, and salt. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and well-combined, with no visible lumps of flour. The blender is key here for ensuring a perfectly airy, lump-free custard base that will set beautifully. A smooth custard is the secret to a silky quiche texture.
  4. Combine and Bake: Gently pour the perfectly blended egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the pie dish. Ensure the cheese, onion, and bacon are evenly submerged within the liquid. Carefully transfer the pie dish to a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for approximately 45 minutes, or until the center is set (no jiggle when gently shaken) and the top is beautifully golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
  5. Cool Before Serving: This step is often overlooked but absolutely vital for a perfect quiche! Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes (preferably 15-20 minutes) on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This cooling time allows the custard to fully set and firm up, preventing it from crumbling and ensuring clean, beautiful slices that hold their shape. Patience is a virtue here!

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations

This Bacon and Swiss Quiche is robust enough to stand on its own as a fulfilling meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of complementary sides. For breakfast or brunch, consider serving it with a refreshing fresh fruit salad, some toasted artisan bread or muffins, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A hot cup of coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice completes the meal perfectly.

Feeling creative? This crustless quiche is incredibly adaptable, inviting you to experiment with different flavors and textures based on your preference or what you have on hand:

  • Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor with sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach (make sure to squeeze out excess water to avoid a watery quiche), diced bell peppers, asparagus tips, or even roasted cherry tomatoes. Simply add them to the layering step with the bacon and cheese.
  • Cheese Swaps: Experiment with different cheeses to alter the flavor profile! Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, smoked gouda, or a Monterey Jack blend could offer exciting new dimensions of taste. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top during the last 10 minutes of baking adds a crispy, savory crust.
  • Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like finely chopped chives, parsley, dill, or a pinch of dried thyme or oregano can brighten the flavor significantly. Stir them into the egg mixture before pouring.
  • Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or even some finely diced jalapeños (seeded for less heat) in the egg mixture can add a subtle kick.
  • Meat Alternatives or Additions: Diced ham, cooked breakfast sausage, or even smoked salmon (added after baking if desired) could replace or complement the bacon for a different savory twist.

Make-Ahead Magic and Storage Tips

One of the best features of this quiche is its make-ahead capability, making it a dream for entertaining or simplifying busy mornings. You can assemble the entire quiche (layers and custard) the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply remove it from the fridge while the oven preheats, then pop it into the preheated oven and bake as directed. This preparation strategy makes hosting a breeze and ensures a stress-free start to your day.

Leftovers, if there are any (which is a big “if”!), can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave until heated through, or for a crispier result, reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. It’s just as delicious the next day, making it fantastic for meal prep!

Conclusion: A Crustless Wonder You’ll Adore

Our Crustless Bacon and Swiss Quiche is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to enjoy satisfying, flavorful meals with minimal effort and maximum delight. Its inherent ability to be prepared ahead, combined with its irresistible taste and remarkable adaptability, makes it a true kitchen hero. Whether you’re planning a festive holiday brunch, a leisurely weekend breakfast, or seeking a simple yet elegant weeknight meal, this quiche promises to deliver culinary delight and effortless satisfaction. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love with the ultimate crustless quiche – a dish so good, you’ll forget it ever needed a crust!