This Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Quiche offers a delightful combination of crispy bacon and tender roasted Brussels sprouts in a creamy, cheesy custard filling. It’s a savory and satisfying dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch or dinner. The rich flavors and crispy textures make it a crowd-pleaser that balances indulgence with wholesome ingredients.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent. Add sliced Brussels sprouts and cook until slightly tender and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Spread the cooked Brussels sprouts and onions evenly over the pie crust. Sprinkle cooked bacon and shredded cheese on top.
- Pour the egg mixture over the filling, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set in the center and the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 380 per serving (serves 6)
- Total Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 235mg
- Sodium: 460mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 18g
Flavor Profile of Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Quiche
This quiche offers a rich blend of flavors, combining the slightly bitter, nutty taste of Brussels sprouts with the smoky, salty crunch of bacon. The creamy custard balances these bold elements, while the melted cheese adds a savory depth. The overall result is a harmonious dish that excites the palate with both texture and taste.
Nutritional Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a powerhouse vegetable loaded with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Including them in this quiche boosts its nutritional value, supporting immune health, bone strength, and digestion. Their low-calorie, nutrient-rich profile makes the dish wholesome and satisfying.
Bacon’s Role in Texture and Flavor
Bacon contributes a crispy texture and a smoky, salty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the tender vegetables and creamy custard. It also adds protein and fat, which help to keep the dish filling and indulgent. Using quality bacon and cooking it properly is key to achieving the perfect balance.
The Creamy Custard Base
The custard, made from eggs and cream, provides a silky, smooth texture that holds all the ingredients together. Its mild flavor allows the bacon and Brussels sprouts to shine while adding richness. The custard’s creaminess is essential for a satisfying quiche experience.
The Importance of Cheese Selection
Choosing the right cheese, such as Gruyère or sharp cheddar, impacts both flavor and texture. Gruyère offers a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and melts beautifully, while cheddar gives a sharper, tangier note. Cheese also helps create a golden crust on top, enhancing the visual appeal.
Using a Pie Crust for Structure
The traditional pie crust provides a sturdy base and a flaky texture that contrasts with the creamy filling. It also helps hold the quiche together, making it easy to slice and serve. While optional, the crust adds an important textural element to the dish.
Balancing Sweetness and Savory Notes
The natural sweetness of sautéed onions and caramelized Brussels sprouts complements the savory bacon and cheese. This balance creates complexity in every bite and prevents the dish from becoming one-dimensional.
Cooking Techniques to Maximize Flavor
Sautéing the Brussels sprouts and onions before adding them to the quiche enhances their natural sweetness and softens their texture. Properly cooking the bacon until crispy ensures it adds the right crunch and smoky flavor. These steps elevate the overall taste.
Meal Occasion Flexibility
Though often served at breakfast or brunch, this quiche also works well as a light lunch or dinner paired with a simple side salad. Its richness and hearty ingredients make it versatile across meal occasions.
How to Make It Ahead and Storage Tips
This quiche can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well when wrapped tightly. Reheating in the oven keeps the texture intact, making it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.
Portion Control and Serving Suggestions
Cutting the quiche into six to eight slices offers reasonable portion sizes. Serving it with fresh greens or a vinaigrette can lighten the meal and add freshness to balance the richness.
Pairing Wines and Beverages
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling wine pairs wonderfully with this dish, cutting through the creamy richness and complementing the smoky bacon. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon adds a refreshing contrast.
Dietary Considerations and Modifications
This recipe can be adapted for lower-fat diets by using milk instead of cream or reducing cheese quantity. For gluten-free diets, a crustless version or gluten-free crust can be substituted. Bacon alternatives can cater to those avoiding pork or seeking a vegetarian option.
Seasonal Adaptations
While Brussels sprouts are at their best in fall and winter, this recipe can be adapted with other seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini in warmer months, keeping the quiche fresh and exciting year-round.
Cultural and Culinary Inspirations
This quiche draws inspiration from classic French cuisine but incorporates American favorite ingredients like bacon and Brussels sprouts, blending tradition with modern tastes.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Bake
To avoid a soggy crust, pre-baking (blind baking) the pie crust slightly before adding the filling helps maintain crispness. Monitoring the baking time ensures the custard sets without becoming rubbery or overcooked.
Conclusion
The Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Quiche is a flavorful, nutrient-packed dish that combines crisp textures and creamy richness with savory, smoky notes. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and balanced nutrition make it a perfect choice for any meal occasion, from casual brunches to cozy dinners. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish or an impressive recipe to share, this quiche delivers both taste and satisfaction.