This Mississippi Sin Quiche is a bold and indulgent twist on the classic quiche that will delight anyone who loves a savory, satisfying breakfast or brunch with a Southern flair. Infused with the rich flavors of diced ham and velvety cream cheese, this quiche is elevated by the kick of hot sauce and the depth of Worcestershire sauce, resulting in a filling that is as decadent as it is comforting. The combination of sharp cheddar and tangy green onions layered throughout the quiche provides a burst of flavor in every bite, while the perfectly baked refrigerated pie crust serves as the sturdy yet flaky foundation. The filling is generously smooth, thanks to a blend of heavy cream, sour cream, and eggs that creates a custard-like texture that sets beautifully in the oven. Each slice offers a satisfying balance of savory meat, creamy cheeses, and a subtle hint of spice, making this quiche a show-stopping centerpiece for any meal.
Beyond its luxurious taste, Mississippi Sin Quiche is also a celebration of textures and contrasts. The initial sauté of the diced ham brings out a subtle caramelization that adds an extra layer of complexity, while the softened cream cheese melds effortlessly with the other ingredients to create a harmonious mixture. With every bite, you experience the crispness of the golden-brown crust, the creaminess of the custard filling, and the occasional crunch of a well-incorporated green onion. This quiche is perfect for those lazy weekend mornings when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something indulgent. Its vibrant flavors and inviting presentation make it equally suitable for a casual family brunch or a more formal gathering. Whether served warm from the oven or at room temperature, this quiche promises a delightful culinary experience that is both familiar and daringly different.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Bold, Layered Flavors: Enjoy the unique combination of savory ham, smooth cream cheese, and sharp cheddar paired with the subtle heat from hot sauce and Worcestershire.
• Decadent Texture: The creamy custard filling, accented by crunchy green onions and a flaky pie crust, offers a delightful contrast in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this quiche is a crowd-pleaser that works for any occasion.
• Easy Assembly: Using a refrigerated pie crust simplifies the process, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Impressive Presentation: With its vibrant mix of colors and textures, this quiche is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1/4 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 2/3 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated, divided
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1 refrigerated pie crust
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare the Ham:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking throughout the quiche.
• Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 1 cup of diced ham to the skillet and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until the ham is lightly browned. This step enhances the natural sweetness of the ham and adds a hint of caramelization, which enriches the overall flavor of the filling.
• Once browned, remove the ham from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to cool slightly. This ensures that the ham does not release excess moisture into the quiche, which could affect its texture.
2. Mix the Cream Cheese Base:
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. A hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment works well for this step.
• To the smooth cream cheese, add the sautéed ham along with 1/4 teaspoon of hot sauce and 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
• Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Mix all these ingredients together until fully combined, ensuring that the ham is evenly distributed throughout the creamy base. This mixture will serve as the flavorful core of your quiche, so take care to blend it well.
3. Prepare the Pie Crust:
• Roll out the refrigerated pie crust and carefully fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Press the crust firmly into the dish and crimp the edges as desired to create a decorative border. A well-fitted crust not only looks attractive but also provides a sturdy base for the filling.
• If your crust has been in the refrigerator, allow it to come to room temperature for a few minutes before proceeding to ensure it bakes evenly.
4. Assemble the Filling:
• Transfer the ham and cream cheese mixture into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the crust, ensuring an even layer that will form the first level of flavor in your quiche.
• Sprinkle 1/3 cup of the grated sharp cheddar cheese over the ham mixture. This initial layer of cheese will melt into the filling, adding a rich, tangy note to each bite.
• Scatter the finely chopped green onion over the top of the filling. The green onion not only adds a pop of color but also imparts a fresh, mildly sharp flavor that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients.
5. Prepare the Custard Mixture:
• In the same large mixing bowl (or a separate bowl if preferred), whisk together 4 large eggs, 3 tablespoons of sour cream, and 1 cup of heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. This custard mixture will bind the ingredients together and provide the quiche with its characteristic silky texture.
• Pour the custard mixture evenly over the ham and cream cheese filling in the pie crust. Take care to distribute it evenly so that the filling sets uniformly during baking.
6. Top with Cheddar:
• Sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of grated cheddar cheese over the top of the quiche. This layer of cheese will melt during baking and form a golden, slightly crisp top that adds an additional burst of flavor and visual appeal to the finished dish.
7. Bake the Quiche:
• Place the assembled quiche into the preheated oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is just set and the top has developed a golden hue. The custard should be firm enough to hold its shape when gently nudged, yet still soft and creamy inside.
• To ensure even baking, you can check the quiche by inserting a knife or a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, indicating that the custard has set properly.
8. Cool and Serve:
• Once the quiche is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly on a wire rack. Cooling for 5 to 10 minutes before serving helps the custard finish setting and makes slicing easier.
• Serve the Mississippi Sin Quiche warm. Enjoy it on its own or paired with a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
Tips
• Ham Preparation: Browning the ham not only intensifies its flavor but also reduces excess moisture that might otherwise seep into the custard, ensuring a firmer set quiche.
• Cream Cheese Consistency: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before beating it. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, lump-free mixture.
• Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amounts of hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder to suit your personal taste preferences. A little extra hot sauce can add an extra kick if desired.
• Crust Handling: Allow the refrigerated pie crust to soften slightly at room temperature if it feels too stiff to work with. This will make it easier to roll out and fit into your pie dish without tearing.
• Even Custard Distribution: When pouring the custard mixture over the filling, use a spatula to gently spread it and ensure it covers all areas evenly. This helps prevent any gaps or uneven cooking.
• Baking Check: Start checking the quiche for doneness at around the 50-minute mark. Ovens can vary, so use a knife or toothpick to test if the center has set.
• Resting Period: Allowing the quiche to rest after baking is important not only for easier slicing but also for the flavors to meld together. Do not rush this step.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration:
• If you have leftovers, let the quiche cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store the quiche in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When ready to eat, you can enjoy it cold or reheat individual slices in a microwave at medium power for 30 to 60 seconds, or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Reheating in an oven will help maintain the crispness of the crust.
• Freezing:
• Although quiche can be frozen, it is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to freeze it, wrap the quiche tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn.
• Frozen quiche can be stored for up to 1 month.
• Thaw the quiche in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Note that the texture of the crust may change slightly after freezing.
• Serving Suggestions:
• This quiche pairs well with a light, crisp salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette or with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
• For brunch gatherings, serve the quiche alongside a selection of breakfast potatoes and fresh pastries.
• Garnish individual slices with extra chopped green onions or a light drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor just before serving.
Enjoy your Mississippi Sin Quiche as a savory treat that perfectly marries the bold flavors of ham and cheese with the delicate creaminess of a well-crafted custard, all encased in a tender, flaky crust.
