Bacon Zucchini Quiche
A savory quiche bursting with smoky bacon, tender zucchini, and creamy cheeses—perfect for brunch, potlucks, or a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- In a large frying pan, fry bacon until crispy, then remove and drain on paper towels, leaving 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
- Sauté chopped zucchini and onion in the remaining bacon fat over medium heat until tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, grated Swiss cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and pepper.
- Spread the zucchini and onion mixture evenly in the bottom of an uncooked 9-inch pastry shell.
- Sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces over the vegetable layer.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bacon, filling the shell.
- Bake at 450°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for another 40 to 45 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven, let stand briefly, and serve warm or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon. If you're short on time, pre-chopped vegetables can save you some prep. Consider adding herbs like thyme or basil for extra flavor. To enhance the dish further, pair it with a side salad or serve it with a dollop of sour cream. This quiche is also a great way to use up leftover vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the quiche warm or cold, making it an excellent choice for brunch or a light dinner. It pairs beautifully with a mixed green salad or roasted vegetables. For added flavor, consider topping with fresh herbs or serving alongside a tangy vinaigrette. This dish is versatile enough to complement other American recipes, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire quiche in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated evenly. This method helps maintain the crust's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Zucchini Quiche contains roughly 461 calories, with 23g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 500mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quiche a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
If you don't have Swiss cheese on hand, Gruyère or mozzarella can make excellent substitutes. Both cheeses melt well and will provide a delicious flavor profile. For a sharper taste, consider using cheddar cheese instead.
Can I add other vegetables to this quiche?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand, such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just make sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent a soggy crust.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).