Sausage and cheese breakfast quiche is a hearty, savory dish that brings together a delightful combination of protein-rich eggs, flavorful sausage, and rich, melted cheese in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, quiche can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it both versatile and satisfying.
Origin and Cultural Significance:
Quiche has its roots in French cuisine, with the most famous variation being the Quiche Lorraine, traditionally made with eggs, cream, and bacon. Over time, quiche has become popular across the globe, with many regional and personal adaptations. Its versatility and ability to be served warm or cold make it a favorite for gatherings, holidays, or weekend brunches.
INGREDIENTS QUANTITY:
For the crust (optional if using pre-made):
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup cold butter (cut into cubes)
3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
1 pound breakfast sausage
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
5 large eggs
1 cup milk (or half-and-half for a richer quiche)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Optional Additions:
1 cup chopped vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
¼ cup fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or thyme)
A dash of hot sauce or paprika for extra flavor
½ cup of grated Parmesan or other cheeses for additional flavor depth
Tips for Success:
Pre-bake the crust (if making from scratch) to avoid a soggy bottom.
Drain excess fat from the cooked sausage to prevent a greasy quiche.
Use room-temperature eggs to ensure even cooking.
Let the quiche rest for about 10 minutes after baking to make it easier to slice and serve.
Cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil if they start to brown too quickly during baking.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the crust (if making from scratch): In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and press it into a 9-inch pie dish. Prick the bottom with a fork and pre-bake for 10 minutes.
Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned. Break it into crumbles and drain excess fat. Set aside.
Assemble the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir in the sausage and cheese.
Pour into the crust: Spread the sausage and cheese mixture evenly in the pre-baked crust. If adding vegetables or herbs, mix them in at this stage. Pour the egg mixture over the filling.
Bake: Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Cool and serve: Let the quiche cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Description:
This sausage and cheese quiche delivers a savory combination of flavors with the richness of eggs, sharpness from the cheese, and the heartiness of sausage. The flaky crust adds a buttery texture, while the optional veggies and herbs can bring freshness to the dish. Each bite is packed with protein and satisfying flavors, making it perfect for a fulfilling breakfast or brunch.
Nutritional Information (per slice, serves 6-8):
Calories: ~350-400
Protein: ~18g
Fat: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~8-10g
Fiber: ~1g
Sugar: ~2g
(Note: Nutritional values will vary based on the ingredients used and the size of the slice.)
Conclusion:
Sausage and cheese breakfast quiche is a versatile and indulgent meal that can be tailored to your preferences. It’s a fantastic dish to serve at a family breakfast or brunch, offering plenty of flavor and richness. Whether you stick to the classic sausage and cheese or mix in vegetables and herbs, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Recommendation:
Pair the quiche with a fresh green salad, fruit, or a light soup for a well-rounded meal. This dish is also perfect for meal prep; make it ahead, and it can be refrigerated or frozen for later. It reheats beautifully, ensuring you have a quick, delicious option ready at any time.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence:
Though quiche is often considered a rich and indulgent meal, you can make it healthier by using leaner sausage, lower-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables. Opt for a whole wheat or gluten-free crust, or skip the crust altogether for a crustless quiche that cuts down on carbs while still delivering delicious flavors. Embrace these small changes to make quiche a part of a balanced, health-conscious diet.