If you’re searching for a delicious dish that combines flavors, textures, and simplicity, look no further than this irresistible roasted red pepper and sausage quiche. This delightful quiche is an absolute crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for brunches, family gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. The blend of smoky-sweet roasted red peppers and savory sausage contrasts beautifully with the creamy egg filling and flaky crust, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Preparing this quiche is straightforward and requires minimal fuss, making it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. It can be made ahead of time, allowing you to serve a fantastic breakfast or brunch spread without spending all morning in the kitchen. Plus, its versatility means that it can easily fit into various meal plans, whether you’re looking for something special to serve guests or a hearty recipe to enjoy any day of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Roasted Red Pepper And Sausage Quiche
- Flavorful ingredients: The combination of roasted red peppers and breakfast sausage creates a savory profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Quick preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this culinary masterpiece ready for the oven.
- Flexible meal options: This quiche serves well for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, ensuring it fits perfectly into your meal planning.
- Make-ahead friendly: Bake it ahead of time and refrigerate, making it easy to reheat for a busy day.
- Comfort food: The creamy filling paired with a flaky crust offers a comforting texture that will make you feel at home.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delightful quiche, it’s important to take a few moments to set up your kitchen and gather necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and ensure that your baking rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even baking. Next, find a deep-dish pie crust, which is essential for accommodating the hearty filling. If you prefer a homemade crust, consider preparing it a day in advance to save time and simplify your cooking experience.
Gather a skillet and a mixing bowl, along with a whisk, measuring cups, and spoons. You’ll also want a sharp knife to chop the roasted red bell peppers. A spatula will be helpful to mix the filling evenly. Once your tools and ingredients are in place, the cooking process will be a breeze!
Ingredients
- 1 deep-dish pie crust
- 8 oz ground breakfast sausage
- 3/4 cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and then bake the pie crust for approximately 10 minutes. This initial baking step, also known as blind baking, will ensure that the crust achieves a lovely golden color and prevents it from becoming soggy once the filling is added. After the crust has baked for just the right amount of time, let it cool slightly on a wire rack.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground breakfast sausage. Sauté the sausage while breaking it up into small crumbles with a spatula. Cook until the sausage become nicely browned and ensure to drain off any excess fat to keep the filling from becoming greasy. This step is crucial for maintaining the quiche’s texture.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, crack the four large eggs and whisk them together with half-and-half (or whole milk), salt, and black pepper until the mixture becomes smooth. This creamy combination serves as the backbone of your quiche. Remember, the quality of the egg and milk you choose will directly influence the richness of your quiche.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Once the egg mixture is ready, gently fold in the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and the chopped roasted red peppers. Ensure everything is combined thoroughly to create an evenly distributed filling, allowing each slice of the quiche to have a delightful blend of flavors.
Step 5: Fill the Crust
Pour the egg mixture evenly into the pre-baked pie crust, distributing the filling with care. It should fill the crust but be mindful not to overfill, as the mixture may expand slightly while cooking.
Step 6: Bake the Quiche
Place the filled quiche back into the oven and bake for about 35–40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set, and the top becomes a beautiful golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating that the quiche is fully cooked. Remember to keep an eye on it in the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After removing the quiche from the oven, allow it to cool for around 10 minutes before slicing. This brief cooling time helps the filling to set, making it easier to cut neat slices. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color and flavor.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the sausage with diced ham or bacon for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or onions to enhance the vegetable content and flavor complexity.
- Spices: Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or fresh herbs to give the quiche a unique twist.
Cooking Notes
- For the best crust consistency, ensure you blind bake it for optimal texture.
- If making ahead, consider under-baking for a few minutes and reheating as needed to avoid overcooking.
- Use whole milk or half-and-half for the richest flavor and creamiest texture in the filling.
- Let the cooked sausage cool before combining it with the egg mixture to prevent curdling.
- Ensure your whisking technique thoroughly combines all ingredients for a uniform filling.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit salad for a balanced breakfast.
- Pair it with a light green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a lovely brunch option.
Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese types; Gruyere or feta can also complement this quiche perfectly.
- For those watching their carbs, try using a cauliflower crust as a low-carb alternative to traditional pie crust.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to serve for guests who enjoy a little spice.
- Cover the quiche with foil if the top is browning too quickly during baking.
- Don’t hesitate to make this quiche a day in advance; the flavors develop beautifully overnight.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 330
- Protein: 14g
- Sodium: 550mg
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust for the quiche?
Absolutely! You can use a store-bought or homemade crust, or even a crustless option for a lighter version.
Can I freeze the quiche?
Yes, you can freeze the baked quiche. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to three months.
How can I store leftover quiche?
Leftover quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
What are the best ways to reheat quiche?
You can reheat quiche in the microwave for a quick option, but the oven will keep the crust crispier. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Conclusion
This irresistible roasted red pepper and sausage quiche is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Its combination of flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility makes it an ideal dish for various occasions. Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, you’ll find that this quiche never fails to impress. We encourage you to experiment with different variations and flavors, tailoring it to your preferences! Don’t forget to share your experiences and any adjustments you made in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Print
Irresistible Roasted Red Pepper and Sausage Quiche
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This irresistible roasted red pepper and sausage quiche is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 deep-dish pie crust
- 8 oz ground breakfast sausage
- 3/4 cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and then bake the pie crust for approximately 10 minutes.
- Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground breakfast sausage. Sauté the sausage while breaking it up into small crumbles with a spatula.
- In a mixing bowl, crack the four large eggs and whisk them together with half-and-half (or whole milk), salt, and black pepper until the mixture becomes smooth.
- Once the egg mixture is ready, gently fold in the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and the chopped roasted red peppers.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Place the filled quiche back into the oven and bake for about 35–40 minutes.
- After removing the quiche from the oven, allow it to cool for around 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Let the cooked sausage cool before combining it with the egg mixture to prevent curdling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Brunch
Nutrition
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Protein: 14 g