Goat Cheese Quiche Recipe

Introduction

Goat Cheese Quiche is a savory, creamy dish that combines the richness of goat cheese with the light, flaky texture of a perfectly baked quiche crust. This dish is versatile, elegant, and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for brunch, lunch, or even dinner. The combination of eggs, cream, and tangy goat cheese creates a flavor profile that is both indulgent and refreshing, making each bite delightful.

Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, Goat Cheese Quiche is a fantastic option that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating a delicious quiche, from selecting your ingredients to perfecting your baking technique. You’ll also find some fun variations and pairing suggestions that will elevate this dish to the next level.

Why You’ll Love Goat Cheese Quiche

• Rich and Creamy: The creamy custard filling combined with the tangy goat cheese creates a luxurious texture and flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent.
• Versatile Ingredients: While this recipe focuses on goat cheese, it can easily be customized to suit your tastes by adding vegetables, herbs, or even meat, allowing for endless possibilities.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a family gathering, or a light dinner, this quiche fits beautifully into any setting. Its sophisticated flavor pairs well with both casual and formal meals.
• Easy to Make: With a straightforward preparation process and minimal hands-on time, Goat Cheese Quiche is simple to put together. The bulk of the time is spent baking, so you can relax while it cooks.
• Great for Leftovers: Quiche keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for leftovers. It can be served warm, at room temperature, or even cold, making it perfect for meal prep or take-along meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 280-300 calories per slice, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280-300 kcal
• Fat: 20-22g
• Carbohydrates: 18-20g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Goat Cheese Quiche:

• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup cooked bacon or ham, chopped
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• ½ cup mushrooms, sautéed
• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish

Special Equipment

While making Goat Cheese Quiche doesn’t require specialized equipment, there are a few tools that can make your preparation smoother and yield better results:

1. Pie Dish or Quiche Pan: A 9-inch pie dish or a quiche pan with a removable bottom is ideal for this recipe. The fluted sides of a quiche pan help create a beautifully crisp crust and allow for even baking.
2. Rolling Pin (for homemade crust): If you’re making your own pie crust, a rolling pin will be necessary to roll out the dough to the right thickness.
3. Whisk: A whisk is essential for beating the eggs and cream together, ensuring the filling is smooth and well-combined.
4. Sauté Pan: You’ll need a small sauté pan to cook any vegetables or meats (like onions, garlic, spinach, or bacon) before adding them to the quiche.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial to the success of this recipe, especially for the filling ingredients. Standard measuring cups and spoons will help ensure consistency.
6. Baking Sheet: A baking sheet placed underneath the quiche pan will catch any drips or spills that might occur while baking, keeping your oven clean.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

If using a pre-made pie crust, simply place it into a 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan. If you’re making your own crust, roll out the dough to fit the pan, trimming off any excess edges. You can also crimp the edges for a decorative finish. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until it is lightly golden and partially set. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Cook the Vegetables

In a sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. If you are adding spinach, sauté it with the onions for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. You can also add any other optional vegetables or meats at this stage.

3. Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in the crumbled goat cheese, shredded Gruyère cheese, and dried thyme. Add salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg to taste. Once the mixture is well-combined, fold in the sautéed vegetables and any optional add-ins, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling.

4. Assemble the Quiche

Pour the egg mixture into the pre-baked pie crust. Gently tap the pan on the counter to distribute the filling evenly. If you’re using a quiche pan, ensure that the filling reaches all the way to the edges for a nice, even bake.

5. Bake the Quiche

Place the quiche on a baking sheet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the center and the top is lightly golden. You can test the quiche by inserting a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the quiche is done. Keep an eye on the quiche towards the end of baking to avoid over-baking, as this can lead to a dry texture.

6. Cool and Serve

Allow the quiche to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture.

Tips for Perfect Goat Cheese Quiche

• Blind Bake the Crust: Blind baking the crust helps prevent the bottom from becoming soggy. If you’re using a pre-made crust, this step is still important for a crisp, flaky bottom.
• Customize the Filling: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavor combinations. Swap the spinach for kale, add sautéed mushrooms, or include roasted red peppers. The possibilities are endless!
• Use Room Temperature Eggs and Cream: Allow the eggs and cream to come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother filling and helps the quiche bake evenly.
• Don’t Overcrowd with Add-ins: While adding vegetables, cheese, or meats is great, be mindful not to overload the quiche with too many ingredients. This can cause the filling to become too dense and may result in uneven cooking.
• Check for Doneness: Since ovens vary, keep an eye on the quiche while baking. It should be golden on top and firm to the touch. A slight jiggle in the center is fine, but it should not be liquid.

Variations of Goat Cheese Quiche

• Spinach and Mushroom Goat Cheese Quiche: Add sautéed mushrooms along with the spinach for an earthy, savory twist. The mushrooms complement the goat cheese perfectly.
• Bacon and Leek Goat Cheese Quiche: Swap out the spinach for sautéed leeks and add crispy bacon bits for a deliciously smoky flavor.
• Tomato and Basil Goat Cheese Quiche: Incorporate fresh cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for a summer-inspired quiche that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings.
• Zucchini and Feta Goat Cheese Quiche: Use thinly sliced zucchini and crumbled feta cheese as the base for a lighter version of this quiche. The feta adds extra saltiness that pairs wonderfully with the goat cheese.

Storage and Shelf Life

Goat Cheese Quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual slices in the microwave or warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the quiche. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Frozen quiche can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, or until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Goat Cheese Quiche

Pair your quiche with complementary sides to create a well-rounded meal:

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with fresh greens, a light vinaigrette, and some toasted nuts or dried fruit complements the richness of the quiche.
• Fresh Fruit Platter: A refreshing fruit platter with berries, grapes, and citrus adds a light contrast to the creamy quiche.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips pair beautifully with the quiche’s savory filling.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty baguette or rustic bread works wonderfully for sopping up any leftover filling.

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Conclusion

Goat Cheese Quiche is a rich, flavorful dish that combines creamy custard with tangy goat cheese, creating an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion. Whether served for brunch, a family meal, or a gathering with friends, this quiche is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll create a quiche that’s both delicious and visually stunning. Enjoy every bite of this savory, comforting dish!