There’s a certain comfort in the kitchen that transforms a simple gathering into a memorable feast, and this Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche with Caramelized Onions is the perfect centerpiece. As I was experimenting one evening with leftover ingredients, the rich aroma of caramelized onions mingled with the savory notes of ham and Gruyere cheese filled my home, enticing everyone to gather around the kitchen island.
When the first bite sent waves of warmth and flavor dancing across my palate, I knew I had stumbled upon something special—an effortless dish that balances elegance and heartiness in one delightful bite. Whether it’s for a brunch with friends, a cozy family dinner, or just a little self-indulgence on a quiet night, this quiche offers versatility that never disappoints. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to break free from the fast-food monotony. Join me in creating this delicious, golden treasure that is sure to become a staple in your home!
Why love Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche?
Unforgettable flavors: This quiche features the perfect blend of nutty Gruyere cheese and savory ham, all enhanced by the sweetness of caramelized onions, creating a dish that is bursting with flavor.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress with this crowd-pleaser.
Versatile delight: Serve it warm for brunch or chilled at a picnic; this quiche adapts beautifully to any occasion.
Time-saving option: Quick to whip up, this dish saves you from fast-food cravings without sacrificing quality or taste.
Cook up this delightful quiche and see why it’s a fan favorite!
Ingredients for Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche with Caramelized Onions
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable quiche that’s sure to impress!
For the Crust
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups – essential for a flaky base.
- Salt – 1 teaspoon – enhances the overall flavor.
- Sugar – 1/4 teaspoon – balances the savory notes of the quiche.
- Unsalted butter – 6 ounces, cold – gives richness and flakiness to the crust.
- Egg yolk – 1 large – helps bind the crust for a perfect texture.
- Ice water – 4 tablespoons – keeps your dough cool for better results.
For the Filling
- Olive oil – 1 1/2 tablespoons – used for sautéing the onions to sweetness.
- Sweet onion – 1 medium, diced – provides a delicious depth of flavor.
- Diced ham – 4 ounces – adds savory protein, the star of the dish.
- Large eggs – 2 – crucial for setting the filling.
- Heavy cream – 1 cup – ensures a rich and creamy texture.
- Salt – 1/8 teaspoon – a pinch to season the filling.
- Pepper – 1/8 teaspoon – adds a dash of warmth.
- Gruyere cheese – 6 ounces, shredded – the key to its irresistible cheesy goodness.
For Garnish (Optional)
- Chives – for garnish – adds a pop of color and freshness to your quiche.
Now you’re all set to create this flavorful Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche with Caramelized Onions!
How to Make Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche with Caramelized Onions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly baked crust and fluffy filling.
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Mix the flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter until you have a mixture that resembles coarse crumbs. This texture ensures a flaky crust!
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Combine the egg yolk and ice water into the flour mixture. Mix until you form a cohesive dough, then wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for about 15 minutes.
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Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface. Fit it into a greased pie dish, pressing gently into the corners, and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
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Pre-bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until it becomes lightly golden. This step helps maintain a crisp texture once filled.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and caramelized—approximately 8-10 minutes for that sweet, deep flavor!
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Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper in a bowl until combined. This creamy mixture will bind everything beautifully.
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Spread the sautéed onions evenly over the pre-baked crust. Add the diced ham and shredded Gruyere cheese, layering the flavors nicely.
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Pour the egg mixture over the filling, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. This will create a wonderfully rich quiche.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top. Your kitchen will smell divine!
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Cool the quiche for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chives if desired for a touch of elegance.
Optional: Garnish with extra Gruyere cheese for a cheesy finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche
Fridge: Store the quiche in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly covered to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing other refrigerator odors.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving for Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche strikes.
Reheating: For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This will restore its flaky crust and creamy filling.
Cooling: Allow the quiche to cool completely before storing; this helps prevent condensation, which can make the crust soggy.
Variations & Substitutions for Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and customize this delightful quiche to fit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create a delicious, flaky crust without the gluten.
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Low-Fat: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk to cut calories while still maintaining a creamy texture.
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Vegetarian: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty, veggie-packed version that’s just as satisfying.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the egg mixture for a little heat that will wake up your taste buds!
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Cheese Lovers: Mix different cheeses like cheddar, feta, or mozzarella with the Gruyere for a tasty twist that introduces new flavors.
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Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or basil into the filling for a fragrant, aromatic experience that elevates every bite.
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Crust-less Option: Skip the crust entirely and bake in a greased pie dish for a lighter, crust-less quiche that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
With these variations, your Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche can always be a new culinary adventure!
Expert Tips for Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche
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Chill Your Dough: Always chill your dough before rolling it out. This helps achieve a flaky crust by solidifying the butter, preventing it from melting too quickly in the oven.
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Don’t Skip Pre-baking: Pre-baking the crust is essential! This step prevents a soggy bottom and ensures your quiche holds its shape nicely once filled.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh Gruyere cheese and quality ham. The flavors in a mini ham & cheese quiche bloom beautifully with high-quality ingredients.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the quiche as it bakes. Every oven is different; look for a lightly golden top and a set center to avoid overcooking.
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Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize your mini ham & cheese quiche with vegetables or different cheeses! Just ensure the total filling stays balanced to avoid sogginess.
What to Serve with Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche?
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a slice of quiche, especially when you complement it with delightful sides that elevate the whole meal experience.
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Fresh Green Salad: A bright, crisp salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the quiche, adding a refreshing contrast.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus roasted to perfection adds a slight crunch and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the quiche.
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Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides a sweet, juicy contrast that brightens each bite, making it a lovely addition for brunch.
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Savory Scones: Flaky, buttery scones—perhaps with cheese or herbs—are a delightful side, adding another layer of flavor and texture to your brunch spread.
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Herbed Potatoes: Crispy, herbed roasted potatoes make for a hearty side that comforts and complements the creamy quiche without overshadowing it.
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Sparkling Water or Champagne: A bubbly drink like sparkling water or a glass of champagne offers a festive touch and enhances the overall dining experience.
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Chocolate Croissants: For a touch of indulgence, serve warm chocolate croissants. Their flaky, rich pastry echoes the quiche’s charm beautifully while satisfying a sweet tooth.
Make Ahead Options
These Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche with Caramelized Onions are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust up to 3 days in advance, simply wrap the pre-baked crust tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain its flaky goodness. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and mix the filling up to 24 hours ahead of time; store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just layer the filling into the chilled crust, pour the egg mixture over it, and then bake as directed for about 30-35 minutes until set and golden. Enjoy the ease and convenience of making these delightful quiches ahead of time, ensuring every bite is just as delicious!
Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche with Caramelized Onions Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ham for the quiche?
Absolutely! I recommend using good quality deli ham for the best flavor. Look for ham that’s not overly processed—preferably unsmoked for a more balanced taste. You can also opt for honey or maple glazed ham for a sweet twist!
How should I store leftover quiche?
Store the quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s tightly covered to keep it fresh and to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
Can I freeze Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche?
Very! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Whenever you crave a slice, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
What can I do if my crust gets soggy?
If you find that your crust is soggy, it’s likely due to the filling being too wet. To prevent this, ensure you pre-bake the crust properly and allow the quiche to cool slightly before cutting into it. If you ever face a soggy crust, you can use a paper towel to absorb some excess moisture before serving!
Is this quiche safe for pets?
While eggs and ham are generally safe for dogs, the heavy cream and seasonings may not be ideal for them. If you plan to share your quiche with your furry friend, it’s best to set aside a portion without added salt or cream, ensuring a healthy treat for them!
Can I substitute Gruyere cheese with something else?
Absolutely! If Gruyere isn’t available, you can use Swiss cheese, which has a similar nutty flavor. Alternatively, a sharp cheddar can add a lovely twist—all variations bring delicious flavor, so feel free to experiment!
Delicious Mini Ham & Cheese Quiche with Caramelized Onions
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly baked crust and fluffy filling.
- Mix the flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter until you have a mixture that resembles coarse crumbs.
- Combine the egg yolk and ice water into the flour mixture. Mix until you form a cohesive dough, then wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for about 15 minutes.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface. Fit it into a greased pie dish, pressing gently into the corners, and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- Pre-bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until it becomes lightly golden.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and caramelized—approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper in a bowl until combined.
- Spread the sautéed onions evenly over the pre-baked crust. Add the diced ham and shredded Gruyere cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the filling, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top.
- Cool the quiche for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chives if desired.