This Mushroom & Swiss Quiche is the perfect blend of earthy mushrooms and creamy Swiss cheese baked into a buttery crust. It’s a comforting dish that works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch. Its rich and savory flavor makes every bite hearty and satisfying.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms (such as cremini or button)
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and mushrooms, cooking until soft and lightly browned, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Spread the mushroom and onion mixture on top of the cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the fillings in the crust.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320 kcal per slice
- Total Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 160 mg
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 2 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Vitamin D: 7% DV
- Calcium: 25% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
- Potassium: 220 mg
Flavor Profile of Mushroom & Swiss Quiche
The Mushroom & Swiss Quiche offers a perfect balance of savory and creamy flavors. Earthy mushrooms complement the nutty, slightly sweet taste of Swiss cheese, while the custard base brings a rich, smooth texture. This harmony makes it a satisfying and indulgent dish without overwhelming the palate.
The Role of Mushrooms in the Quiche
Mushrooms add depth and umami to the quiche, enhancing its savoriness. Their meaty texture provides a hearty feel, making the dish more substantial. Using fresh mushrooms like cremini or button boosts both flavor and nutrition, contributing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Swiss Cheese Characteristics
Swiss cheese is mild, nutty, and melts beautifully, making it ideal for quiches. It adds a creamy richness that binds well with eggs and vegetables. Its slightly sweet undertone softens the stronger flavors and creates a balanced, inviting taste.
The Importance of a Good Pie Crust
The crust is the foundation of the quiche, offering a crisp, buttery base that contrasts the creamy filling. A well-made pie crust enhances texture and adds a delicate flakiness. It also keeps the filling intact and provides a visually appealing golden edge.
Eggs as the Binding Agent
Eggs provide structure and moisture to the quiche filling. When baked, they create a custard-like consistency that holds the mushrooms and cheese together. Eggs also enrich the dish with protein and essential nutrients, making it more wholesome.
Half-and-Half in Custard Mixture
Half-and-half adds creaminess without making the quiche overly heavy. It helps produce a smooth, velvety texture in the custard while keeping the calorie count moderate compared to using heavy cream. This balance is key to achieving the perfect quiche.
Seasonings That Elevate the Dish
Simple seasonings such as salt, pepper, and nutmeg enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them. Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that pairs wonderfully with cheese-based dishes, making the quiche more aromatic and complex.
Versatility of Mushroom & Swiss Quiche
This quiche can easily transition from breakfast to lunch or dinner. It pairs well with a fresh salad for a light meal or can be served alongside roasted vegetables for a heartier option. Its versatility makes it a great choice for any occasion.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Mushrooms provide antioxidants and vitamins like B-complex and D, supporting immune health and bone strength. Eggs contribute high-quality protein and essential amino acids. Swiss cheese offers calcium and vitamin B12, important for bone and nerve health.
How to Customize Your Quiche
You can tailor this quiche to your taste by adding herbs such as thyme or parsley, swapping Swiss for Gruyère or cheddar, or incorporating other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Customization allows you to create variations that suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture
Avoid overbaking to keep the quiche creamy inside. The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when removed from the oven, as it will firm up while cooling. Pre-cooking the mushrooms prevents excess moisture, ensuring a firm, non-soggy crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the quiche warm or at room temperature with simple sides like mixed greens or fruit salad. It can also be sliced for brunch buffets, picnics, or potlucks. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can brighten the flavors.
Storage and Reheating Advice
Leftover quiche keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to maintain texture and flavor. It can also be frozen, though freezing may affect crust crispness slightly.
Pairing Beverages with the Quiche
Light white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Chardonnay complement the savory richness. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a splash of lemon or iced herbal tea to balance the creamy texture and cleanse the palate.
Cultural and Historical Context
Quiche originated in the Lorraine region of France and has evolved globally with many variations. The Mushroom & Swiss Quiche reflects modern tastes, blending classic custard techniques with familiar, comforting ingredients popular in many kitchens worldwide.
Why This Quiche Is Ideal for Entertaining
Its elegant appearance and ease of preparation make it perfect for gatherings. You can prepare it ahead, freeing you up on the day of your event. Its crowd-pleasing flavors suit a wide range of guests, including vegetarians.
Conclusion
The Mushroom & Swiss Quiche is a timeless dish that marries rich, savory flavors with a comforting custard texture. Its balance of ingredients offers both nutrition and indulgence, while its versatility makes it suitable for many meals and occasions. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, it’s a satisfying option that pleases a variety of palates and dietary needs.