Welcome to your new favorite brunch centerpiece: an exquisite Smoked Ham & Gouda Quiche. This dish is a true family treasure, bringing together the rich, savory notes of smoked ham and the creamy, subtly smoky tang of Gouda cheese into a harmonious symphony of flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, promising to awaken your taste buds and elevate any gathering, from festive holiday brunches to casual weekend breakfasts. Simple to prepare yet profoundly satisfying, this quiche is destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
For many families, holiday mornings are synonymous with special traditions, and for us, that often means indulging in a delicious quiche. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, a savory quiche is always eagerly anticipated. While I love to experiment with various flavor combinations to cater to everyone’s preferences, this particular Smoked Ham & Gouda Quiche consistently stands out as a unanimous crowd-pleaser. Beyond holidays, it offers a brilliant solution for utilizing leftover ham from your festive meals. Transforming it into this delectable ham and gouda cheese quiche is not only resourceful but also creates a whole new culinary delight. We often enjoy it as a fulfilling dinner, perfectly paired with a crisp green salad, proving its versatility beyond just breakfast.
The allure of this quiche lies in the exceptional flavor marriage of smoked ham and smoked gouda. The ham contributes a deep, salty savoriness, while the smoked gouda layers in a creamy texture with its characteristic nutty and subtly smoky undertones. As this magnificent quiche bakes, your home will be filled with an incredibly inviting aroma, building anticipation for that very first, unforgettable bite. It’s a comforting scent that promises warmth and flavor, making every moment leading up to serving feel like a celebration.
The Irresistible Appeal of Ham and Gouda Quiche
Quiche has long been our preferred choice for leisurely weekend breakfasts, but its true magic lies in its adaptability. This dish can be effortlessly prepared in advance, transforming it into a quick, easy, and incredibly nourishing meal for busy weekday mornings, a light yet satisfying lunch, or even a sophisticated dinner option. Our Ham and Smoked Gouda Quiche is a perennial favorite for special occasions like Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, offering a touch of elegance and homemade comfort. It’s also an excellent choice for a baby shower brunch, a bridal shower spread, or any event where you want to impress with minimal fuss.
What I particularly adore about quiche, and this recipe specifically, is its remarkable flexibility. It’s a culinary canvas that invites creativity and modification, allowing you to tailor the ingredients based on what you have readily available or what your palate desires. Whether you opt for a homemade pie crust for that extra touch of artisanal charm or choose a convenient store-bought shell to save time, the foundation remains steadfast. You can experiment with different cheeses, swap out the main protein, or incorporate an array of vegetables to create a truly personalized dish. This adaptability ensures that your quiche is always fresh, exciting, and perfectly suited to the moment.
If the savory delight of this Gouda and ham quiche captures your heart, you’ll be thrilled to discover other beloved variations that offer equally captivating flavors. Explore the classic comfort of a Bacon and Swiss Quiche, the unique twist of a Reuben Quiche, or the zesty kick of a Green Chile Quiche With Sausage. Each offers a distinct profile, promising a new favorite for every occasion.
Essential Ingredients for this Delectable Quiche Recipe
Crafting this simple yet spectacular quiche requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building its rich and complex flavor profile. For a comprehensive list of quantities and detailed instructions, please refer to the full printable recipe card at the bottom of this page. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Pie Crust: The foundation of any great quiche. You have the freedom to either prepare your own homemade pie crust for that authentic, flaky texture, or opt for the convenience of a store-bought pie shell. Both fresh and frozen options work beautifully. If you choose to make your own and find yourself with extra dough, consider using it to create these delightful Pie Crust Cookies – a sweet bonus!
- Shallots: Finely chopped shallots lend a delicate, sweet onion flavor to the quiche, offering a milder alternative to traditional onions without overpowering the other rich ingredients. If shallots are unavailable, finely diced yellow or red onion can be a suitable substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly more robust.
- Smoked Ham: The star protein, smoked ham, provides a deep, savory, and wonderfully smoky essence that permeates the entire quiche. You can easily purchase pre-cooked smoked ham from your grocery store, or for an even more impressive dish, consider preparing this glazed smoked spiral ham recipe and then chopping the leftovers. This is an excellent way to repurpose holiday ham into a new culinary masterpiece.
- Smoked Gouda Cheese: This cheese is key to achieving the signature smoky and creamy character of the quiche. Smoked shredded Gouda cheese melts beautifully, distributing its rich, nutty, and distinctly smoky flavor evenly throughout the custard. Always opt for shredding or grating your own block of cheese for the best texture and flavor, avoiding the anti-caking agents often found in pre-shredded varieties.
- Eggs: Large eggs are my preferred choice for their consistent size, but any fresh eggs you have on hand will work perfectly. They form the essential custardy base of the quiche, binding all the delicious fillings together.
- Half & Half: Using half and half contributes to an incredibly rich and luxurious custard texture in this quiche. While you can substitute with any type of milk (whole, skim, or even a non-dairy alternative), note that higher fat content will yield a creamier, more decadent result.
- Chives: Freshly chopped chives add a subtle, delicate oniony flavor and a vibrant green visual appeal. Both fresh or dried chives can be used, with fresh offering a brighter, more pungent note.
- Salt: A pinch of salt is essential for seasoning the custard and enhancing all the individual flavors of the ham and cheese, ensuring a well-balanced taste.
- Sugar: A small touch of sugar might seem surprising, but it plays a crucial role in harmonizing the flavors, balancing the savoriness and saltiness of the ham and cheese, and contributing to the quiche’s overall depth.
As you gather your ingredients, remember that a great quiche is built on quality components. Selecting fresh, flavorful ingredients will significantly impact the final taste. Keep reading for valuable tips, creative substitutions, and answers to frequently asked questions about mastering this delightful Ham and Gouda Quiche.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Ham and Smoked Gouda Quiche
Creating this flavorful quiche is a surprisingly straightforward process, even for those who might feel intimidated by baking. This recipe is tried and true, designed for consistent success. Regardless of the fillings you choose, the foundational custard always turns out perfectly creamy and delicious. Follow these simple steps to bring this family-favorite dish to life:
Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, carefully line a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate with your chosen pie crust. Ensure the crust is evenly distributed and gently pressed into the contours of the plate, trimming any excess dough around the edges for a neat finish.
Next, evenly scatter the finely chopped shallots across the bottom of the pie crust. This ensures their mild oniony flavor is distributed throughout each bite. Follow this by layering the chopped smoked ham, spreading it out to create an even base. Finally, generously sprinkle the shredded smoked Gouda cheese over the ham. This layering technique helps to evenly distribute the flavors and ensures that every slice of quiche is packed with deliciousness.
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them thoroughly until the yolks and whites are completely combined and slightly frothy. Gradually pour in the half & half, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-integrated. Then, add the salt, sugar, and chopped chives, whisking again to ensure all the seasonings are evenly dispersed throughout the rich custard base. This careful whisking is key to a light and airy quiche texture.
Carefully pour the prepared egg mixture over the layered ham, shallots, and cheese in the pie crust. Pour slowly and gently to avoid disturbing the fillings, allowing the custard to seep into all the nooks and crannies. Ensure the mixture is evenly distributed, filling the crust almost to the top.
Place the quiche into the preheated 425°F (220°C) oven and bake for 15 minutes. This initial high heat helps the crust to brown beautifully and begin setting the custard. After 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the center of the quiche is just set with a slight jiggle, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period is crucial for the quiche to fully set, making it easier to cut into perfect, clean slices.
For storage, allow the quiche to come to room temperature completely. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or place it in an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, the quiche can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm gently in the oven until heated through.
Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
If this incredible recipe for Ham & Smoked Gouda Quiche sounds like a dish you’ll adore, make sure you don’t lose track of it! Take a moment to save it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you go. Pinning allows you to easily revisit this delightful recipe whenever you’re planning your next brunch, holiday meal, or simply craving a savory and comforting treat. Share the love and ensure this fantastic quiche is always just a click away!
Creative Substitutions and Variations for Your Quiche
One of the best aspects of making quiche is the freedom to customize it to your personal taste and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative with substitutions – this is your kitchen, and your quiche should reflect your preferences! Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary exploration:
- Dairy Alternatives: If you don’t have half and half, you can easily create a similar richness by combining heavy cream with a splash of milk. For a lighter custard, whole milk or even skim milk can be used, though the texture will be less rich. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened plain almond milk or oat milk can work, though you might need to adjust seasoning for flavor balance.
- Cheese Swaps: While smoked Gouda offers a distinct flavor, other excellent melting cheeses can be used. Consider Swiss cheese for a nutty, slightly sweet profile, sharp cheddar for a more robust tang, Gruyère for sophisticated depth, or Fontina for an exceptionally creamy texture. A blend of cheeses can also add complexity.
- Onion Varieties: Instead of shallots, finely chopped red onions can add a beautiful color and a slightly sharper, yet still sweet, onion flavor. Yellow onions or even sweet Vidalia onions, caramelized slightly before adding to the crust, can also provide a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Protein Alternatives: Beyond smoked ham, other cooked proteins can be fantastic. Crispy bacon bits, savory breakfast sausage, shredded smoked turkey, or even cooked and crumbled pancetta would all make delicious fillings.
- Vegetable Additions: Enhance your quiche with a variety of vegetables. Sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli florets are all wonderful choices. Ensure vegetables are cooked and drained of excess moisture before adding to prevent a soggy quiche.
- Herb and Spice Enhancements: Beyond chives, consider adding a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg to the egg mixture for a classic quiche flavor. A dash of black pepper, a touch of garlic powder, or other fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also elevate the taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Gouda Quiche
To ensure your quiche-making experience is as smooth and successful as possible, here are answers to some common questions you might have about this Ham and Gouda Quiche:
- How do you store leftover quiche? To maintain freshness, allow the quiche to cool completely to room temperature first. Then, either wrap individual slices or the entire quiche tightly in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Do you have to prebake the pie crust? Prebaking, also known as blind baking, the pie crust is optional but highly recommended for the best results, especially if you prefer a crisp, flaky crust and want to prevent a soggy bottom. While this recipe does not explicitly require it, a lightly blind-baked crust (par-baked) will create a superior texture. You can find a detailed guide on how to blind bake a pie crust here.
- How do you know if a quiche is cooked through? The best way to check for doneness is to gently insert a sharp knife or a thin skewer into the center of the quiche. If the knife comes out wet, with liquid or unset custard clinging to it, the quiche needs more baking time. Continue baking in 5-10 minute increments until the knife comes out clean. The center should have a slight, barely perceptible jiggle, but should not look liquid. The top should also be beautifully golden brown.
- Can I make this quiche ahead of time? Absolutely! Quiche is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can bake it completely, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or a toaster oven, or warm the entire quiche in a conventional oven until heated through.
- Why did my quiche crack or sink? Cracking often occurs from overbaking or cooling too quickly. To prevent this, ensure you don’t bake it longer than necessary and allow it to cool gradually on a wire rack at room temperature. Slight sinking is natural as the hot custard cools, but excessive sinking might indicate it was slightly underbaked.
Expert Tips & Tricks for Perfect Quiche
Elevate your quiche game with these invaluable tips and tricks, designed to make your Ham and Gouda Quiche truly outstanding:
- Go Crustless for Low-Carb: For a lighter, low-carb friendly option, simply omit the pie crust! Prepare this recipe as a crustless quiche by greasing your baking dish well and placing the fillings and egg mixture directly into it. Adjust baking time slightly as it may cook a bit faster without the crust.
- Stock Up on Leftover Ham: Make future quiche preparation a breeze by keeping a stash of cooked, chopped leftover ham in your freezer. This way, you’ll always be ready to whip up this delicious recipe on a whim, reducing food waste and saving time.
- Freshly Shredded Cheese is Best: Always opt for shredding your own block of smoked Gouda (or any cheese) rather than using pre-shredded varieties. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and evenly, and it lacks the anti-caking agents that can sometimes affect texture and flavor in pre-packaged options. Check out my post on why you should grate your own cheese for more insights.
- Sauté Your Veggies: If adding other vegetables like red pepper, caramelized onions, green onions, or broccoli florets, it’s a good practice to lightly sauté them first. This softens them and removes excess moisture, preventing your quiche from becoming watery.
- The Importance of Resting: Never skip the resting period! Allowing the quiche to rest for at least 10-15 minutes after baking is crucial. This helps the custard set properly, making for cleaner slices and preventing the filling from oozing out when cut.
- Serve with Simple Sides: This hearty quiche pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette, a fresh fruit salad, or a basket of warm, crusty bread are all excellent complements that enhance the meal without overpowering the quiche.
Did you know that shredding your own cheese is not only healthier but also more economical in the long run? Discover the full benefits and reasons why you should grate your own cheese in my detailed post.
Explore More Delicious Breakfast & Brunch Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed the delightful flavors of our Ham and Smoked Gouda Quiche and are eager to expand your breakfast and brunch repertoire, you’re in for a treat! We have an array of other fantastic recipes that are perfect for starting your day on a delicious note or for entertaining guests. Consider trying this comforting Sausage and Crescent Breakfast Casserole Bake (pictured above) for a hearty option, or the uniquely flavorful Reuben Breakfast Casserole With Crescent Rolls. For a fun and savory twist, our Breakfast Hashbrown Pizza is always a hit. If your cravings lean towards something sweet, you must try this moist and tender Applesauce Coffee Cake or these irresistibly tangy Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls. Each recipe promises to bring joy and flavor to your table, making every meal a special affair.
This effortless recipe for Ham and Smoked Gouda Quiche is truly a game-changer, poised to transform brunch into your absolute favorite meal of the day. The blend of smoky, savory, and creamy flavors creates an unforgettable dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Prepare to delight your family and friends with every delicious bite! Enjoy the process, and savor the incredible results.
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Rating: 4.53 from 72 votes
Print Recipe
Ham and Smoked Gouda Quiche
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Resting Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
Course: Breakfast/Brunch
Cuisine: American
Keyword: brunch, gouda cheese, ham, Ham & Smoked Gouda Quiche, holiday breakfast, quiche
Servings: 6
Calories: 470 kcal
Author: Michaela Kenkel
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (your own or store bought)
- 1/2 cups shallots (chopped)
- 1/2 pound smoked ham (chopped)
- 1 cup Arla Dofino Smoked Gouda Cheese (shredded)
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups Half & Half
- 2 teaspoons chives
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 C), and line a 9 inch deep dish pie plate with a pie crust.
- Lay chopped shallots in the crust. Top with the chopped ham. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Whisk together eggs and Half & Half, whisk in the salt, sugar and chives. Pour over the top of the cheese.
- Bake for 15 minutes. Reduce oven to 300 degrees F (150 C) and bake for 30 minutes more.
- Let sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Whether to prebake or not is up to you. If you want a crisper flaky crust, then blind baking the pie crust is a good idea.
Store the quiche in an airtight container or wrap it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for 3-4 days or the freezer for 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 | Calories: 470 kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 200mg | Sodium: 1379mg | Potassium: 390mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 682IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 396mg | Iron: 2mg
A BIG thank you to Arla Dofino for sponsoring this Ham & Smoked Gouda Quiche recipe post in 2014. This post has been updated to improve user experience from its original shared date of November 30, 2014.