Southwest Quiche
A vibrant Southwest-inspired quiche filled with peppers, crispy bacon, cheddar, and ricotta, perfect for brunch or a savory lunch for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a 9-inch pie or quiche tin with a generous pie crust and bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
- While the crust is baking, broil the bacon until crisp and slice the peppers into large pieces.
- Gently fry the peppers in 3 tablespoons of oil until limp, but not soft, being careful not to burn them.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and layer it on the bottom of the baked crust.
- In a bowl, grate the Cheddar cheese and mix it with the Ricotta, Italian seasoning, and half and half.
- Beat the eggs and incorporate them into the cheese mixture.
- Pour one-third of the egg and cheese mixture over the bacon in the crust.
- Drain and add the fried peppers on top of this layer.
- Pour the remaining egg and cheese mixture over the peppers.
- Bake the quiche at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes, or until set and golden.
- Let the quiche rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture. If you're short on time, store-bought pie crust can save you hassle. To make it lighter, substitute half of the ricotta with Greek yogurt. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for a smoother texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Southwest Quiche pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or some fruit for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it alongside Judy'S Cornbread Salad for a delightful contrast. It's perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner. A dollop of sour cream or salsa on top adds a tasty touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwest Quiche contains roughly 847 calories, with 30g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), calcium (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1034mg per serving (45% 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 this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quiche a day in advance. Assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day for a fresh breakfast or brunch option. This way, you can save time and still enjoy a delicious meal.
What can I substitute for the bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option or want to reduce fat, you can substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. For a smoky flavor, try using smoked paprika or liquid smoke in the egg mixture. These alternatives will still provide a satisfying taste and texture.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze slices of the quiche for up to two months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
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).