Secret Ingredient Ham & Swiss Quiche

This Ham & Swiss Quiche boasts a rich, velvety texture made possible by the secret addition of mayonnaise to the custard. The flaky, golden crust holds a savory filling layered with smoky ham, nutty Swiss cheese, and a hint of green onion, all bound by a smooth, silky egg mixture.

Perfectly baked, the quiche has just the right jiggle in the center, inviting you to dive into its creamy richness. Garnished with fresh chives, this dish offers an elegant but comforting presentation ideal for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 (9-inch) deep dish frozen or refrigerated pie crust

• 6 large eggs

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons real mayonnaise (secret ingredient)

• ½ teaspoon dried mustard powder

• Splash of Worcestershire sauce

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

• Pinch of red pepper flakes

• 1 to 1.5 cups diced ham

• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese

• ¼ cup chopped green onion

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a fork, poke holes in the bottom of the pie crust to release steam. Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes.

2. While crust bakes, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, mayonnaise, dried mustard powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until frothy.

3. Layer diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and chopped green onions in the bottom of the baked crust.

4. Pour the egg mixture carefully over the layered ingredients, making sure not to overfill.

5. Cover the quiche with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

6. Remove the foil and bake an additional 20-25 minutes until the center jiggles slightly but is set.

7. Let cool for 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped chives if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 65 minutes
Kcal: 605 kcal | Servings: 6-8 servings

The Secret Ingredient Ham & Swiss Quiche: A Southern Classic with a Creamy Twist

Quiche is one of those versatile dishes that can effortlessly transition from breakfast to brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings together simple ingredients in a savory, custardy pie that tastes indulgent yet homemade. This particular Ham & Swiss Quiche recipe elevates the classic ham and cheese combination by adding a secret ingredient that transforms the texture and richness of the dish, making it silky, creamy, and perfectly tender every time.

The Classic Appeal of Ham & Swiss

Ham and Swiss cheese are a tried-and-true pairing, celebrated for their complementary flavors. The smoky, savory notes of ham meld beautifully with the mild, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor of Swiss cheese. This pairing has been popularized in sandwiches and baked dishes alike, prized for delivering satisfying richness without overpowering the palate. In this quiche, the ingredients come together in a flaky pie crust, balanced by a silky custard that is more luxurious than typical quiche recipes. It’s a recipe that nods to the comforting traditions of Southern cuisine while incorporating a clever twist inspired by deli sandwich secrets.

What Makes This Quiche Recipe Stand Out?

The real secret to this recipe’s creamy, luscious texture is the addition of real mayonnaise to the egg and cream mixture. While it might sound unconventional, mayonnaise is essentially a blend of oil, egg yolk, and vinegar or lemon juice, which enhances fat content and moisture in the custard without weighing it down.

• Silky Texture: Mayonnaise adds a subtle richness that makes the custard exceptionally smooth and tender, avoiding the rubbery or dry texture that can sometimes plague quiches.
• Enhanced Flavor Depth: The addition of Worcestershire sauce and dried mustard powder adds complexity and a mild tang that elevates the ham and Swiss flavors.
• Perfect Crust: Blind baking the crust ensures it stays crisp and flaky, providing a perfect contrast to the creamy filling and preventing sogginess.
• Balanced Seasoning: Red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, while green onions bring a fresh, aromatic brightness to each bite.

Benefits of Making Quiche at Home

• Customization: You control the quality of ingredients, seasoning levels, and texture preferences.
• Use of Leftovers: This recipe is perfect for using leftover ham, reducing food waste while creating a new meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The quiche can be prepared ahead of time, refrigerated or frozen, making it ideal for busy schedules or entertaining.
• Nutritious and Filling: Eggs provide a high-quality protein source; ham adds savory satisfaction, and Swiss cheese contributes calcium and flavor. Using mayonnaise and cream in moderation balances richness and texture.

Tips for Achieving Quiche Perfection

• Blind Bake the Crust: This crucial step prevents a soggy bottom by partially baking the crust before adding the filling.
• Don’t Overfill: Pour the custard mixture carefully to avoid spills and overflows during baking. Placing a baking sheet below your pie dish can catch any drips and keep your oven clean.
• Watch the Bake Time: The quiche is done when the center jiggles slightly but is mostly set—overbaking leads to dryness and cracking.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow the quiche to rest for 15 minutes after baking so it can finish setting and slice cleanly.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Choices: While Swiss cheese is classic, Gruyere, mozzarella, or sharp cheddar can be substituted for different flavor profiles.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or caramelized onions for extra texture and nutrition.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme, parsley, or chives add aromatic notes.
• Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a smoky heat.
• Crust Options: Use a gluten-free crust for dietary needs, or try a savory biscuit or puff pastry crust.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch Pairings: Serve with fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, and mimosas for a festive brunch.
• Lunch or Light Dinner: Accompany with a crisp green salad, tomato soup, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Party Appetizer: Cut into bite-sized squares and serve warm or at room temperature for easy entertaining.

Storing and Freezing

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: Fully baked quiche can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven covered with foil. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
• Make-Ahead Prep: Prepare the filling and crust separately the day before and assemble right before baking for convenience.

Conclusion

This Ham & Swiss Quiche, with its secret ingredient and thoughtful flavor additions, strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. It’s easy enough for a weekday dinner yet elegant enough to impress guests at brunch or a holiday gathering. By combining classic Southern flavors with a smart technique, it delivers a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and visually appealing. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe provides a reliable way to create a delicious homemade quiche that will quickly become a family favorite.