Save Indulge in the savory elegance of a classic French dish with this Caramelized Onion and Bacon Quiche. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of slowly cooked onions with the smoky richness of crisp bacon, all nestled within a velvety custard and a perfectly flaky pastry crust. Whether you are hosting a sophisticated weekend brunch or looking for a light yet satisfying dinner, this tart offers a harmonious balance of flavors that is sure to impress.
Save The secret to a truly exceptional quiche lies in the patience of the preparation. By taking the time to slowly sauté the onions for nearly half an hour, you unlock their full aromatic potential. Combined with the nutty notes of Gruyère and a hint of nutmeg, this dish becomes more than just a savory tart—it is a celebration of simple ingredients executed with care.
Ingredients
- Pastry: 1 sheet (about 250 g) store-bought or homemade shortcrust pastry
- Filling: 200 g smoked bacon, diced
- Filling: 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- Filling: 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Filling: 1 tbsp olive oil
- Filling: 1 tsp sugar
- Filling: 1/2 tsp salt
- Filling: 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Filling: 1/4 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Custard: 3 large eggs
- Custard: 200 ml heavy cream
- Custard: 100 ml whole milk
- Custard: 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Custard: 80 g grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- Custard: Additional salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Step 2
- Roll out the pastry and line a 23 cm (9-inch) tart pan. Trim excess and prick the base with a fork. Chill while preparing the filling.
- Step 3
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and set aside.
- Step 4
- Discard excess bacon fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add butter and olive oil to the pan. Add onions, sugar, salt, and thyme. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes until onions are deeply golden and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Step 5
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, milk, nutmeg, and a little salt and pepper.
- Step 6
- Scatter the caramelized onions and bacon evenly over the chilled pastry base. Sprinkle with grated Gruyère.
- Step 7
- Pour the custard mixture gently over the filling.
- Step 8
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden. Let cool 10 minutes before slicing.
- Step 9
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, always prick the base of the pastry and chill it before adding the filling; this helps prevent the crust from rising or shrinking. For the onions, use medium-low heat to avoid burning, allowing them to soften and brown slowly for maximum flavor. Be sure to drain the bacon thoroughly on paper towels to keep the filling from becoming overly greasy.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily adapt this quiche to suit your preferences. If Gruyère is unavailable, Emmental or a sharp cheddar make excellent substitutes. For those seeking a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms to maintain a savory depth.
Serviervorschläge
This quiche is best enjoyed with a crisp, fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. For a complete dining experience, pair a slice with a glass of chilled Chardonnay, which complements the richness of the custard and the smokiness of the bacon perfectly.
Save With its golden finish and irresistible aroma, this Caramelized Onion and Bacon Quiche is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether served as a centerpiece for brunch or a convenient make-ahead lunch, it brings a touch of French culinary tradition to your home kitchen. Enjoy every bite of this savory, creamy, and flaky delight.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I caramelize onions perfectly?
Cook sliced onions slowly over medium-low heat with butter and oil, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and sweet, usually about 25–30 minutes.
- → Can I make the tart crust from scratch?
Yes, using a basic shortcrust pastry dough chilled before rolling ensures a flaky and tender base for the tart.
- → Is Gruyère essential for the filling?
Gruyère offers a nutty, melty quality but can be replaced with Emmental or sharp cheddar based on preference.
- → How long should the tart bake?
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 35–40 minutes until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden.
- → Can this dish be adapted for vegetarians?
Omit bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables as a flavorful alternative topping.
- → What serving suggestions complement this tart?
Serve with a crisp green salad and a chilled white wine such as Chardonnay for a balanced meal.