Caramelized Onion and Bacon Quiche

There’s something magical about the combination of caramelized onions and bacon. The fragrant sweetness of the onions, combined with the salty and savory flavor of bacon, creates a truly irresistible pairing. This quiche recipe takes these two ingredients and elevates them to new heights, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.

Quiche has deep roots in French cuisine and has long been a staple in brunch menus around the world. Originating from the region of Lorraine in France, quiche traditionally consists of a savory custard mixture baked in a pastry crust. While quiche Lorraine is the most well-known variation, there are endless possibilities when it comes to fillings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust (9 inches)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and press it gently against the sides and bottom. Trim any excess crust hanging over the dish. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust several times to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes, until they turn golden brown and caramelized. The slow cooking process allows the natural sweetness of the onions to develop. Once caramelized, remove the onions from the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Add the shredded Gruyère cheese, crumbled bacon, and caramelized onions to the egg mixture. Stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the filling mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Place the quiche back into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. To check if the quiche is cooked through, insert a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, the quiche is ready.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once the quiche is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the custard to set and makes it easier to serve. Quiche can be served warm or at room temperature and makes for a delicious brunch or light dinner option.

This Caramelized Onion and Bacon Quiche is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Consider adding additional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or different types of cheese for added flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the taste even further.