Easy 9x9 Quiche Recipe for Breakfast or Brunch

Quiche is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines a flaky crust with a creamy filling, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This 9×9-inch quiche recipe is simple to prepare and yields a hearty, flavorful result that can be customized with your favorite ingredients. It’s ideal for feeding a family or a small gathering, and the compact size ensures even baking and easy portioning.

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
3-4 tablespoons ice water
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a mix)
1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped (or ham, sausage, or vegetables)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line your 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

Prepare the crust: In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cold, cubed butter and pulse or cut in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, just until the dough begins to come together. Do not overmix.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and form into a flat disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Fit the dough into the prepared 9×9-inch pan, pressing gently into the corners. Trim any excess dough around the edges.

Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork a few times to prevent bubbling. For a crisper crust, you can blind-bake it: line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped cooked bacon or your choice of fillings.
Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust, spreading evenly. Place the dish on a baking sheet to catch any overflow.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Allow the quiche to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips

Substitute the crust with store-bought pie crust for quicker preparation, but homemade crust has a richer flavor and better texture.

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
To make ahead, prepare the crust and filling separately and assemble just before baking. Quiche can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Avoid overfilling the crust to prevent spilling during baking. Just fill up to the edge for a neat appearance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of the warm or cooled quiche alongside a simple green salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with toasted bread or a light soup for a complete brunch menu. For a casual gathering, cut into smaller squares and serve as finger food.

Variations

Vegetable Quiche: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

Seafood Quiche: Incorporate cooked shrimp or smoked salmon for a seafood twist.
Cheese Alternatives: Use feta, goat cheese, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Low-Carb Version: Substitute the crust with a cauliflower crust or omit it altogether for a crustless quiche.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual slices for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent overcooking. For best results, reheat in the oven to preserve the crust’s crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust up to 2 days in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it refrigerated until ready to use. This saves time on the day of baking and ensures the dough stays fresh.

Is it necessary to blind-bake the crust?

Blind-baking helps prevent a soggy crust, especially when using moist fillings. If you prefer a softer crust, you can skip this step, but the bottom may be less crisp. For best results, especially with wet ingredients like fresh vegetables or seafood, blind-baking is recommended.

Can I freeze the quiche?

Yes, quiche freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through. Keep in mind that the texture of the crust may be slightly softer after freezing and reheating.

Can I use a different size pan?

Yes, but cooking times will vary. If you use a larger or smaller pan, adjust the baking time accordingly. For example, a 9×13-inch pan will require more filling and longer baking time, while a smaller pan will need less. Keep an eye on the quiche and test for doneness with a knife or toothpick.

What fillings work best for this recipe?

This recipe is very versatile. Classic options include ham and cheese, spinach and feta, or bacon and cheddar. You can also experiment with cooked vegetables, cooked seafood, or even cooked sausage. Just be sure fillings are cooked and drained well to avoid excess moisture.

How do I know when the quiche is done?

The quiche is ready when the filling is set and slightly puffed around the edges. The center should no longer be jiggly and a knife inserted into the middle should come out clean. Keep in mind that it will continue to set slightly as it cools.

Easy 9×9 Quiche Recipe for Breakfast or Brunch