Introduction
Italian sausage quiche is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage with a creamy, custard-like filling and a flaky crust. This quiche is perfect for brunch, a light lunch, or even a dinner option. Its versatility and rich flavors make it a favorite among many, and with simple ingredients, it can be made easily at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 prepared pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish
Prep Time
Preparation time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes. This includes the time needed to gather ingredients, prepare them, and pre-bake the pie crust.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 30-35 minutes. Therefore, the total time from beginning to end is about 55-60 minutes. This recipe yields one quiche, serving about 6 slices, making it an excellent option for sharing with family or friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pie Dish
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a pie dish or quiche pan with butter or non-stick spray.
Cook the Sausages
In a skillet, cook Italian sausages over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly, then crumble the sausages into bite-sized pieces.
Saute Vegetables
In the same skillet, add diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Mix the Egg Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and shredded cheese to the egg mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Assemble the Quiche
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pie crust. Spread the filling evenly.
Bake the Quiche
Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is set.
Cool and Serve
Once done, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Choosing Sausage
Use high-quality Italian sausage for best flavor. You may opt for mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze the quiche before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer and bake straight from frozen, adding extra time if needed.
Cook techniques
Preparing the crust
Use a combination of flour, butter, and cold water to create a flaky pastry crust. Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out to achieve the best texture.
Blind baking
Blind bake the crust by lining it with parchment paper and filling it with weights or beans. This helps prevent the crust from bubbling while ensuring it cooks evenly.
Cooking the sausage
Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Breaking it into small pieces while cooking allows for even distribution throughout the quiche.
Whisking the egg mixture
In a bowl, whisk together eggs and cream until well combined. This mixture forms the custard base of the quiche and should be well blended to avoid separation.
Layering ingredients
Evenly distribute the cooked sausage and vegetables in the blind-baked crust before pouring the egg mixture on top. This ensures that every slice has a balanced filling.
Baking the quiche
Bake the quiche in a preheated oven until the custard is set and the edges of the crust are golden brown. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
Allowing to cool
Let the quiche cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the custard firm up, making it easier to cut and serving neat slices.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute Italian sausage with other types like turkey or chicken sausage, but the flavor will vary.
How do I store leftover quiche?
Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze quiche?
Yes, you can freeze quiche. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
You can use a gluten-free pie crust or a crust made from almond flour as an alternative to the traditional pastry crust.
What can I serve with quiche?
Quiche pairs well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Italian Sausage Quiche is not only delicious but also a versatile meal option that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Its rich flavors and flaky crust make it a standout dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it is perfect for any occasion.
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