This Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Quiche is a savory masterpiece that combines crispy bacon, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and a rich, creamy egg custard baked into a flaky pie crust. Perfect for brunches, holidays, or weekday meal prep, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that makes vegetables indulgently delicious. Serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled—it’s delicious every way.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 strips bacon, chopped
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a raw pie crust, pre-bake it (blind bake) for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
3. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: In the same skillet with reserved bacon fat, add olive oil and sliced Brussels sprouts. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender. Remove from heat.
4. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir in the shredded cheese.
5. Assemble the Quiche: Spread the cooked Brussels sprouts and bacon evenly over the pre-baked crust. Pour the egg mixture on top, making sure everything is evenly distributed.
6. Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and the top is golden. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the quiche cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Cholesterol: 165mg

The Role of Bacon in Flavor and Texture

Bacon plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor profile of this quiche, providing a salty, smoky depth that contrasts beautifully with the subtle bitterness of the Brussels sprouts. Its crispy texture adds a satisfying crunch to every bite, especially when layered between the creamy custard and the flaky crust. The rendered bacon fat also serves a dual purpose—it’s used to sauté the Brussels sprouts, infusing them with extra flavor. While bacon is often seen as indulgent, using it in moderation allows it to shine as a seasoning element rather than overwhelming the dish with fat or salt.

Choosing the Right Cheese

Cheese adds richness, creaminess, and a distinct savory note to the quiche. Gruyère is a classic choice for quiches due to its nutty, slightly sweet flavor and excellent melting quality. Swiss cheese is a suitable substitute that brings a mild sharpness. For those seeking bolder flavor, aged cheddar, fontina, or goat cheese can also work well. It’s important to use a cheese that complements, rather than overpowers, the other ingredients. Grating the cheese finely ensures even distribution throughout the custard, contributing to a cohesive texture and flavor in every slice.

Crust Options and Their Impact

The crust forms the foundation of the quiche and can dramatically influence its overall taste and texture. A buttery, flaky homemade crust adds depth and richness, while a store-bought pie shell offers convenience without sacrificing too much on quality. For a lower-carb or gluten-free option, crustless quiches or almond flour-based crusts are viable alternatives. Blind-baking the crust before filling is crucial to prevent sogginess and to ensure a crisp, golden base. Whether traditional or modified, the crust should provide a sturdy, flavorful contrast to the soft, creamy interior of the quiche.

Serving Suggestions for Different Occasions

This Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Quiche is incredibly versatile and can be served at various meals and occasions. It’s a star at brunch, paired with fresh fruit, coffee, and pastries. For lunch, serve it alongside a light green salad with vinaigrette or a bowl of tomato soup. It can even serve as a simple dinner option with roasted vegetables or crusty bread on the side. For holidays and gatherings, the quiche can be prepared in advance, freeing up oven space for other dishes. Its make-ahead nature and crowd-pleasing flavor make it perfect for potlucks, Easter brunches, and weekend breakfast spreads.

Ideal Beverage Pairings

Beverage pairings can enhance the enjoyment of a quiche by complementing its richness and balancing the flavors. For breakfast or brunch, freshly brewed coffee, a spiced chai latte, or a citrusy mimosa pairs well with the creamy and savory elements of the dish. At lunch, a glass of crisp white wine—such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay—adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky bacon and earthy Brussels sprouts. Sparkling water with lemon or herbal iced tea also makes a clean and hydrating companion, helping cleanse the palate between bites.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

One of the great advantages of quiche is how well it stores and reheats. Once cooled, leftovers should be wrapped tightly or placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, individual slices can be wrapped in plastic wrap and foil and frozen for up to two months. To reheat, place the slice in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving directly from frozen, as it can cause the crust to become soggy. Reheating slowly in the oven helps maintain its texture and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Custard Texture

The key to a successful quiche lies in its custard—achieving the ideal balance of creaminess without being watery or rubbery. The ratio of eggs to dairy (typically 1 egg per ½ cup of cream or milk) ensures the filling sets properly while remaining soft and tender. Using a combination of heavy cream and whole milk strikes a balance between richness and lightness. Overbaking is a common pitfall; removing the quiche from the oven when the center is just slightly jiggly allows it to finish setting as it cools, resulting in a smooth, luscious custard every time.

Customizing for Dietary Needs

This quiche is easy to adapt for various dietary preferences. To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or replace it with sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for a similar umami boost. A dairy-free version can be created by using non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk) and plant-based cheese alternatives. For a gluten-free option, a crust made with almond flour or sweet potatoes works beautifully. The recipe can also accommodate keto diets by omitting the crust and using full-fat dairy products, making it a flexible dish for a variety of health goals.

Making It Ahead for Convenience

Quiche is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can prepare the filling ingredients the night before and store them separately, then assemble and bake the next day. Alternatively, the entire quiche can be baked, cooled, and refrigerated for up to two days in advance. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. This make-ahead ability reduces kitchen stress and is especially helpful for hosting brunch or preparing weekday breakfasts. The quiche can also be baked and then sliced into portions for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Quiche is a flavorful, hearty, and elegant dish that fits a variety of meals and lifestyles. Its savory depth, creamy texture, and contrast between crisp crust and soft filling make it a standout addition to any menu. With flexible variations, excellent make-ahead potential, and ingredients that bring both comfort and nutrition, it’s a recipe that delivers on all fronts. Whether you’re cooking for a brunch crowd, prepping weekday meals, or simply looking to enjoy the comfort of homemade quiche, this dish offers a satisfying and reliable solution—crispy, creamy, and undeniably delicious.