Name: Crustless Quiche – Ham and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 5 large eggs (~50 – 55g / 2oz each); 1 cup cream (heavy/thickened (halve if subbing milk)); 1/4 tsp salt (don't be greedy with ham); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 100 g ham (diced); 1 cup shredded cheese (anything that melts except mozzarella); 1 green onion (sliced)

Introduction to Crustless Quiche: Ham and Cheese

Why Choose Crustless Quiche?

If you're on the hunt for a dish that balances convenience and deliciousness, crustless quiche ham and cheese is a perfect choice. This delightful recipe is perfect for brunch, a quick dinner, or meal prep for the week. Without the crust, you save calorie load while focusing on that rich, custardy filling. Plus, it's versatile! Feel free to mix and match ingredients—substitute in your favorite vegetables or proteins, like turkey bacon or spinach. It’s an ideal way to clean out your fridge!

Benefits of Making Your Own Homemade Meals

Cooking at home can be incredibly rewarding. Not only do you control the ingredients, but you also get to avoid unwanted preservatives and additives commonly found in store-bought options. Home-cooked meals like this crustless quiche not only save money but also foster creativity. The CDC notes that eating home-prepared meals can help you maintain a healthier diet by allowing you to tailor your meals to your nutritional goals. So grab those eggs, chicken ham, and cheese, and whip up something that nourishes both your body and soul!

For inspiration, check out some tips on meal prepping for a healthier lifestyle, or explore more about the benefits of cooking at home.

Ingredients for Crustless Quiche: Ham and Cheese

Overview of Essential Ingredients

Creating a delicious crustless quiche ham and cheese is as simple as gathering a few key ingredients. You’ll need:

Large eggs – Approximately five, as they provide the quiche's rich base.
Cream – A cup of heavy cream adds luxurious texture, but you can use milk if you prefer a lighter option.
Seasoning – Just a pinch of salt and some black pepper to enhance flavors.
Chicken ham – About 100 grams, diced, brings a wonderful savory touch.
Cheese – A cup of your favorite melty cheese (think cheddar or gouda), but avoid mozzarella for the best results.
Green onions – Sliced for a mild, fresh kick.

These ingredients combine to create a custardy delight that's as comforting as it is quick to prepare!

Ingredient Substitutions and Adjustments

Don't worry if you don’t have everything on hand! Here are some smart substitutions you can consider:

Instead of chicken ham, try turkey bacon for a different flavor profile.
For a lighter quiche, substitute half of the cream with milk.
If you're out of green onions, any mild onion or even chives will do nicely.
Feel free to mix in other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to up your veggie intake.

Adapt these ingredients to suit your pantry and preferences, and enjoy a personalized version of this tasty crustless quiche!

Preparing Crustless Quiche: Ham and Cheese

Making a crustless quiche ham and cheese is a delightful culinary journey! This recipe is not only simple to whip up, but it also provides a savory dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner. Let’s dive into the preparation process together!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients to make the process smooth and enjoyable. You’ll need the following:

5 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream (or use low-fat cream if you prefer)
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
100g (about 3.5 oz) chicken ham, diced
1 cup shredded cheese (feel free to choose your favorite, just avoid mozzarella unless you're ready to add a pinch more salt)
1 green onion, sliced

Having everything ready allows you to focus on making this delicious dish without interruptions.

Whisking the Egg Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While that’s warming up, take a mixing bowl and whisk together the eggs, cream, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth consistency. This mixture is the heart of your quiche, so ensure it’s well combined. If you're curious about the difference between using cream and milk, check out this guide to baking with cream.

Assembling the Quiche

Next, it’s time to assemble your crustless quiche ham and cheese. Grease a 22.5cm (9-inch) pie dish with butter or a light spray of oil to prevent sticking. Scatter most of the chicken ham, cheese, and green onion into the pie dish. Then, gently pour the whisked egg mixture over the top. Sprinkle the remaining chicken ham, cheese, and green onion on top for that extra burst of flavor.

Baking the Quiche to Perfection

Now, pop your pie dish into the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Look for a golden-brown top, and make sure the center barely wiggles when you gently shake the dish. Avoid overcooking; you want that lovely custardy texture to shine through. If you're looking for tips on customizing flavors, consider adding herbs like thyme or basil for an aromatic twist!

Cooling and Serving the Quiche

Once your quiche is baked to perfection, take it out of the oven and let it rest for five minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the quiche to deflate slightly, making it easier to cut. Serve your delicious crustless quiche ham and cheese alongside a simple side salad, or get creative by stuffing it into soft rolls or wrapping it in burritos (then pan-fry for a crispy finish).

This dish is versatile and is sure to impress your friends or family. Enjoy!

Variations on Crustless Quiche: Ham and Cheese

Vegetable-Packed Crustless Quiche

For a vibrant twist on your crustless quiche ham and cheese, consider adding a medley of colorful vegetables. Spinach, bell peppers, and zucchini not only boost nutrition but also enhance the flavor profile. Sauté them lightly before mixing into your egg mixture to ensure they meld well and don’t release excess moisture. This is a perfect way to sneak in those veggies you might be missing!

Spicy Crustless Quiche

If you're a fan of heat, spice it up! Incorporate some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to your crustless quiche ham and cheese. For an added kick, try mixing in pepper jack cheese instead of the usual cheddar. This variation caters perfectly to those who enjoy a bit of zest in their brunch dishes, making each bite more exciting.

These creative variations not only diversify your meal options but also keep things fun and fresh in the kitchen. Enjoy exploring these delicious adaptations!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crustless Quiche: Ham and Cheese

Key Tips for a Perfect Quiche Texture

For the ultimate crustless quiche ham and cheese, it's all about the eggs and cream. Whisk them together until fully incorporated to achieve a smooth, airy texture. Don’t be tempted to overbake; a perfectly baked quiche should jiggle slightly in the center when done. Letting it rest for a few minutes after baking will allow it to set up nicely and helps prevent a deflated quiche!

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This quiche stays fresh in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing it—just wrap slices tightly and place them in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 180°C/350°F for about 10 minutes. Need inspiration? Check out this guide on reheating quiche for perfectly fluffy results!

Serving Suggestions for Crustless Quiche: Ham and Cheese

Ideal Sides to Complement Your Quiche

Pairing your crustless quiche ham and cheese with the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette is a fantastic choice, adding a peppery crunch. You could also try roasted sweet potatoes or a medley of seasoned vegetables, which bring a warm heartiness to the dish. For a splash of color, consider a fresh fruit salad or some sliced avocado—both are refreshing additions that balance the richness of the quiche.

Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner?

One of the best aspects of this crustless quiche ham and cheese is its versatility! Serve it for breakfast alongside toast and seasonal fruit for a delightful start to your day. Alternatively, it makes a hearty lunch paired with a soup—think comforting tomato or a zesty minestrone. For dinner, it’s wonderful alongside a green salad or stuffed into a warm turkey bacon wrap. The possibilities are endless, making it an ideal go-to recipe for any mealtime!

Don’t forget, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients to suit your taste. Happy cooking!

Time Breakdown for Crustless Quiche: Ham and Cheese

Preparation Time

Getting started on your crustless quiche with chicken ham and cheese is a breeze! You'll need about 10 minutes to prepare your ingredients and whisk everything together.

Cooking Time

Pop your quiche in the oven and let it work its magic for 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes to ensure that golden top!

Total Time

In just 45 minutes, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to enjoy. Perfect for brunch or an easy weeknight dinner! Consider serving it with a fresh side salad or even wrapped in tortillas for a tasty twist.

For tips on meal prep and storage, check out how to keep your quiche fresh and delicious longer by visiting the FoodSafety.gov for best practices!

Nutritional Facts for Crustless Quiche: Ham and Cheese

Calories and Serving Size Information

Each serving of this delightful crustless quiche with chicken ham and cheese comes in at approximately 264 calories. If you cut the quiche into six generous slices, you'll enjoy a hearty meal without worrying about excessive calories. Great for brunch or a light dinner!

Key Nutritional Highlights

Protein Power: With 13 grams of protein per serving, this dish is ideal for those looking to fuel their bodies. Chicken ham adds a lean protein source.
Healthy Fats: Featuring 23 grams of fats (with 13 grams being saturated), using cream gives it a rich texture.
Low Carbs: At just 2 grams of carbohydrates, it's a fantastic option for low-carb dieters.
Nutrient Boost: This quiche provides a good source of Vitamin A (19% of your daily needs) and calcium (14%), essential for bone health.

For additional insights on nutritional needs, consider reading more about dietary guidelines recommended by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Enjoying this crustless quiche will not only satisfy your taste buds but also contribute to a balanced diet!

FAQ about Crustless Quiche: Ham and Cheese

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While our crustless quiche ham and cheese recipe suggests a melty cheese, you can easily experiment. Cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère work wonderfully, each bringing its own flavor profile. Just remember, mozzarella tends to be lower in salt, so if you opt for that, add a pinch more salt to your egg mixture.

How do I store leftovers properly?

To enjoy your crustless quiche, store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to let the quiche cool completely before wrapping it in plastic or placing it in an airtight container. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly, thaw in the fridge, and reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to dig in!

What can I serve with crustless quiche?

This versatile dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad for a light lunch or crusty bread for a heartier meal. Feeling adventurous? You can even stuff portions into soft rolls or make a breakfast burrito by wrapping slices in tortillas. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion on Crustless Quiche: Ham and Cheese

In summary, this crustless quiche with chicken ham and cheese is a delightful dish that you can whip up effortlessly. It’s versatile, allowing for various fillings based on your preferences. Perfect for brunch or a quick weeknight dinner, you’ll love how easily it comes together. Enjoy!