These Mini Quiche Lorraines are like little hugs of flavor! With a crispy crust, creamy filling, and tasty bits of bacon or ham, they’re perfect for any gathering.
I love serving these warm at parties, and they disappear fast! Plus, they’re easy to make ahead—just pop them in the oven, and you’re all set for smiles!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: You can use store-bought refrigerated pie crust for convenience. If you’re up for a challenge, a homemade shortcrust pastry can add a personal touch and extra flakiness!
Eggs: Large eggs are a must for the filling. They provide structure. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute some eggs with egg whites.
Heavy Cream & Milk: For creaminess, use heavy cream and whole milk. If you want a lighter quiche, half-and-half or whole milk alone works too. Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free version, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor, but if you want a vegetarian option, you can skip it or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition.
Gruyère Cheese: Gruyère lends a nutty flavor. If unavailable, Swiss cheese will work well, and cheddar can provide a sharper taste if that’s your preference!
How do I Get Perfectly Cooked Quiches?
Getting the right texture in your mini quiches is key. Here are a few tips:
- Pre-bake the crust if you like extra crispiness—it prevents soggy bottoms!
- Keep the oven temperature steady—375°F (190°C) is just right for even cooking.
- Watch the quiches closely. They should be set and slightly puffed when done. If there’s a slight jiggle in the center, that’s normal; they will continue to cook a bit after removing from the oven.
- Let them cool slightly before removing from the pan for easier handling.
Mini Quiche Lorraine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 sheet of refrigerated pie crust (or homemade shortcrust pastry)
For the Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (can substitute with Swiss cheese)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Garnish:
- Fresh chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mini Quiche Lorraine takes about 15 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes for baking, bringing the total time to about 40-45 minutes. Perfect for a quick and charming brunch or snack that will impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, take a mini muffin or tart pan and lightly grease it to prepare for the crust.
2. Prepare the Crust
Roll out your pie crust on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Using a round cutter, cut out small circles that are big enough to fit into the mini tart tin. Gently press the dough rounds into the tart cups. If needed, patch any parts that might have torn. Place the crusts in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
3. Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove it and let it drain on paper towels to get rid of excess grease.
4. Sauté the Onion
In the same skillet, add the finely diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent and soft, but be careful not to let it brown. Once done, remove it from heat.
5. Mix the Egg Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and milk until smooth. Season the egg mixture with salt and pepper to taste—this is where you can add a bit of flavor!
6. Assemble the Quiches
Sprinkle a bit of the shredded Gruyère cheese, crispy bacon, and sautéed onions evenly into each tart shell. This layering creates rich flavors in every bite!
7. Add the Egg Mixture
Pour the egg mixture over the fillings in each shell, filling them almost to the top but leaving a small gap to avoid overflowing while baking.
8. Bake
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be set and the crust should be golden brown when done.
9. Cool and Remove
Once baked, remove the quiches from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes in the pan. This will help them set and make it easier to remove them from the pan without breaking.
10. Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish your delicious mini quiches with freshly chopped chives. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion!
Enjoy your Mini Quiche Lorraine as a great snack or share them at brunch! Yum!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Gruyère is traditional for Quiche Lorraine, you can substitute it with Swiss cheese, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses for varied flavors.
How Do I Store Leftover Mini Quiches?
Store any leftover quiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Can I Make These Mini Quiches Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and crust the day before. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve. These quiches also freeze well; simply thaw and reheat when needed!
What If I Don’t Have a Mini Muffin Pan?
No problem! You can use a standard muffin tray or even larger tart pans. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as larger quiches may require additional time to set.
